Leading with Purpose in Bihar: Strengthening Adolescent Health with Pankaj Bhaiyya

Called “Bhaiyya,” or big brother, by those he serves, Pankaj is more than a counselor—he is a mentor, motivator, and trusted ally. In Bihar, India, his work with EngenderHealth’s TARUNYA project proves how one person’s compassion and commitment can transform adolescent health and uplift entire communities.

Inspiring Change Through Mentorship

In Bodhgaya, in Bihar, India, Pankaj Kumar has become a pillar of support for adolescent health workers, balancing family responsibilities with a deep commitment to community service and youth well-being.

In a landscape where frontline staff often feel overburdened, he motivates Peer Educators and Rashtriya Kishor Swasthya Karyakram (RKSK) teams supported by EngenderHealth’s TARUNYA project. As one of 30 Civil Society Organization (CSO) mentors in the project, Pankaj ensures accurate health information and services reach adolescents and their families.

Building Trust Across Communities

Pankaj’s influence extends far beyond his official role—he has earned the trust of community members and government officials alike, becoming a reliable guide at every level.

He invests time in understanding the unique challenges faced by Peer Educators, Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs), and government health staff. By guiding outreach, supporting frontline workers, and collaborating with medical officers, he helps ensure adolescent health programs run smoothly and effectively.

Creating Collaboration and Connection

At the government level, Pankaj Bhaiyya serves as a liaison between program implementation stakeholders, ensuring that adolescent health services and information reaches each and every household in his area. 

Pankaj’s passion for promoting adolescent health and his supportive leadership skills have cultivated a vibrant ecosystem where everyone feels valued and motivated to contribute towards a shared mission—advancing the health and well-being of adolescents across the community. 

“I am the bridge between the planners and the doers,” says Pankaj.  

From Peer Educators to ASHAs, counselors, and medical officers, Pankaj brings people together. His mentorship fosters collaboration, strengthens motivation, and creates a shared sense of purpose. His leadership style fosters a collaborative and supportive environment, creating a sense of camaraderie among the diverse stakeholders who work within the program. 

Building Mentorship that Strengthens Adolescent Health 

Through his steady guidance, Pankaj has shown how mentorship can strengthen entire health systems. By supporting frontline workers and youth leaders alike, he helps create communities where every adolescent has the opportunity to thrive.

Through his steady guidance, Pankaj proves that mentorship is more than support—it is the foundation of stronger programs, healthier communities, and brighter futures. By nurturing leaders at every level, we can ensure that all young people have the chance to reach their full potential.

Learn more about other inspiring youth leaders in Tarunya’s Legacy: 14 Portraits of Health, Hope and Change for Bihar’s Adolescents.