What do we mean by generation gap? Well, it could be defined like this: A father used to walk for twenty minutes to save twenty rupees. His son spends twenty rupees to save twenty minutes. The generation gap is nothing but the transition of thoughts that distinguish one generation from another and may cause a lack of understanding. But does this mean that they are 'generations apart'? No. It only talks of the difference in attitudes. Now although the sun and moon are different, they help each other shine and similarly 'Every generation needs regeneration.'
Understanding this need, Shantanu Naidu, a general manager in Ratan Tata’s office, founded ‘Goodfellows’ a startup that aims to provide companionship to senior citizens. A big believer in how much generations can learn from each other and influenced by his (aged 30) rich intergenerational relationship with Ratan Tata (aged 84), he ensured that his startup hires young graduates having the right skills of empathy and emotional intelligence to ‘work’ as the senior citizens’ companions and ease the day for them.
The tagline of Goodfellows is “Everything grandkids do'' and that is exactly how it works! The senior citizens are lovingly called ‘Grandpals’ and the younger generation ‘Goodfellows’. When asked about the selection process of the ‘Goodfellows’, Naidu told news agency PTI that he developed a model with the help of psychologists to select the right candidate as a companion. “It is difficult to fabricate the bond between an elder and a grandchild, but Goodfellows will ensure that authentic bonds will be created.” said Naidu.
Understanding that companionship means different things to different people, the activities are customized to the senior’s likings with some wanting to go for walks, play boardgames, have a conversation or just sit together and do nothing at all. Goodfellows has now also started researching to explore elderly travel projects.
To add a cherry on top, the startup received an undisclosed amount as a seed investment from Mr. Tata himself! “The bonds between the two generations are very meaningful and are helping to address an important social issue in India. You do not know what it is like to be lonely until you spend time alone wishing for a companion. No one really minds getting old till you get old and good-natured companionship, which we often take for granted, is a challenge.” He added to these wise words by expressing that he would be delighted for Goodfellows to grow and mature into a milestone in society.
A noteworthy review states that Mumbai-based Mrs. Demellow’s grandchild is part of a band and for a while now, she has been wanting to see him perform, but did not know how to do so. Recently, a “Goodfellow” created an Instagram account for her and the 86-year-old now enjoys watching her grandson’s activities on the app.
You, currently reading this article could also be a ‘Goodfellow’, you could help lighten the life of someone in need! This start-up will only go upwards, ‘Friendships like this are works of art, whose soft glow warms the heart!’
“Every generation needs regeneration”- Charles Spurgeon
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