Nearly 100 Registrations and 40 Attendees: My experience conducting an Online Movers session
viranga
he/him · Aug 2025
"Does doing this online even matter?"
I often questioned the value of hosting online workshops, skeptical of their ability to make a genuine difference. While social media activism felt superficial, I was equally doubtful about the impact of local online sessions. Yet I came to realize that these online spaces can have a profound effect not only on the participants but just as importantly—on the host.
I was severely underprepared for what my workshop would become:
--> A space where people shared and discussed opinions
--> A seeding ground for grassroots political activism
--> Most of all, a stimulant for critical analysis and contextual discovery
The diverse and polarized opinions—ranging from Kenya to Bangladesh—only added to the richness of the discussion. Even though I've heard of amazing reflections post-session, I believe that it is only right that I share how I evolved through the workshop as well
--> I learned about identifying and navigating traditional narratives and their role in political activism
--> Hyper-specific challenges such as restrictions on speech and expression
--> How to engage in productive debate and move toward youth movements that aren't signposted by violence
Most of all, I have come out of the session arguably more confused and frustrated than before. But is it truly frustratation, if sparked by curiosity?