Stories in Action: Reflections on MenEngage India's 'Partners in Change' Workshop

MenEngage Global Secretariat Operations & People Manager Paul Ruban, recently participated in MenEngage India’s ​‘Partners in Change’ Workshop in Jaipur. He shares his reflections below.

As someone working remotely from India with the MenEngage Global Secretariat, I had this incredible opportunity to be part of what’s happening in MenEngage India. I arrived in Jaipur at the MenEngage India Workshop with curiosity and humility. I was not prepared for what awaited me, the depth of learning, the connections, and the stories that would move me in ways I hadn’t imagined.

There are moments in life that change you for the better, and this gathering was one of those life-changing moments for me. I encountered stories in action. From organisations and leaders empowering women in rural Rajasthan to Odisha, to grassroots programs teaching boys to unlearn toxic masculinities, the stories I heard challenged my assumptions and expanded my perspective.

I had always assumed that serious gender work was concentrated in India’s metro cities. But the voices and practices shared at this workshop showed me how deeply transformative work is happening in rural contexts, where challenges are stark and progress often feels hard-won. These stories reminded me that gender justice is not abstract — it is lived every day, sometimes in the smallest yet most courageous acts.

These stories reminded me that gender justice is not abstract — it is lived every day, sometimes in the smallest yet most courageous acts.

Listening to women’s stories of backlash and resistance made me pause, reflect, and rethink my own role not only as a professional in this field but also as a father raising two growing daughters. How can I model equality, respect, and openness for them in ways that prepare them for a just future?

The energy of the network itself was inspiring. Yogesh Vaishnav, the South Asia Regional Coordinator, led with humility and quiet strength — truly ​“leading from behind,” a rare and powerful trait. The Youth Reference Group (YRG) brought incredible dynamism, challenging norms and pushing conversations into bold new directions. Their gratitude for the space created by veteran members was moving, but even more powerful was the wisdom they shared back and their willingness to learn from everyone.

One youth participant said, ​“use the wisdom of the experienced and the creativity and innovation of the youth to take this work forward.”

That simple, profound statement filled me with hope.

I left Jaipur with eyes opened wider, a heart fuller, and a spirit more energized. This was not just a workshop — it was an awakening. It reminded me that while much progress has been made, much, much more remains to be done. Engaging men and boys is no longer a side conversation — it is crucial in achieving gender justice.

This is happening, here and now. And I feel privileged, challenged, and inspired to be part of it.

By Paul Ruban, Operations & People Manager, MenEngage Alliance Global Secretariat