Creating content and art have largely dominated my workspace. Back when we were staying in our homes because of the COVID-19 pandemic, that period back in time turned into a blessing for me—I found the time to consider tapping into different activities and aspects of life. With this newfound zeal to pursue hobbies and passions, I chose to pursue my passion for writing and Indian folk art. Slowly, however, managing both became a challenge.
Considering the professional aspect of my life which relates to content creation, I chose the former and applied to Deloitte USI for the role of an internal communications specialist. After being a freelancer for many years, I decided to try out this professional setup which was altogether new for me. January 2022 marks that moment in my career journey when I first stepped into the corporate world of communications with one of the Big 4. I can still recall my initial days here, treading slowly and carefully, ensuring that I take my time to understand this new world of working, alongside many professionals.
I joined the Hyderabad location of the US-India Offices and being in this campus feels like a whole other world. Thankfully, I found supportive team members in the first three months of my arrival and was I glad! They ensured I was supported and guided well to handle all the unforeseen and challenging situations at work. Although I sometimes felt agitated, and nervous, my ecosystem at work helped me brace and sail through this professionally different phase of my life. Their everyday acts of listening, taking care to show up for me in situations unknown and new to me, and the innumerable support and guidance from all those around, put me on the path to discover myself as a professional in a big organization setup, along with helping me gain confidence in facing any challenging situation that came my way thereafter.
While I was learning and growing at work, becoming increasingly adept at managing things independently, there was a gnawing sense of loss somewhere. I knew it was that budding artist in me, which I had shoved underneath amidst all the work, creating a sense of void in me. I knew I wanted to pick my paintbrushes and start practicing, but I refrained. Cut to March 2022, and I came across the "Well-being Subsidy Program." I was thrilled to find out that it could cover a painting class of my choice and several other well-being choices. Immediately I enrolled myself to learn the Indian art form of my choice with an intensive art workshop, which once again filled my days in the evening with an activity that would please me the most after writing. Speaking in Deloitte's language, practicing art was my "strength," as it energized me. Amidst all the organization's myriad benefits, I cherished the benefit of the "well-being subsidy program" the most. |  |
My next nine months of art training in "Madhubani painting" were well spent and I enjoyed this thoroughly. My evenings were filled with colors and more loved forms of artwork than ever, and for this, I am thankful to my organization. My happiness knew no bounds when I once again got an opportunity to express my love for art through actions that seemed to serve the larger community—Deloitte Employee Giving Program (DEGP). The platform created a perfect space for me to share my artwork only to be pledged to raise funds and do my bit to serve those in need. Suddenly my artistic expression found a meaning, a whole new purpose of relating and resonating with a bigger world. It was no longer just an artwork but a means to help and support someone's life.
Through Deloitte, I am grateful that I could revive my love for Indian folk art and give a sense of purpose to it. Through my work, while I hope I will be able to spread awareness about the long-lost traditional folk art somewhere but will cherish the fact that my artworks will now hold immense potential to light up the lamp or rather put food into someone's plate.
About the author:
Malavika is an internal communications specialist supporting Audit & Assurance practice at Deloitte USI. She is based out of Hyderabad. When not working, she can be found spending time with family and friends, indulging in art, cooking or reading a book.