Hello, fellow travelers and global adventurers!

I'm Naji Mahfood, and I hail from the vibrant and culturally rich town of Malappuram in Kerala, India. I'm a firm believer in the power of global citizenship and social entrepreneurship to create positive change in the world.

For over six years, I've been on an incredible journey as a learning designer and co-founder of several initiatives that aim to ignite young minds and inspire transformation. These include Ignite India, Khoj, and Take a Pause, each with a unique focus on nurturing young changemakers, driving social and economic development in rural areas, and promoting wellness and mindfulness.

My commitment to reshaping education and fostering regenerative livelihoods has led me to join the Ecoversities Alliance and Indian Multiversities Alliance, where we are reimagining education and embracing the magic of learning beyond the ordinary.

My passion for exploration once took me on a 90-day adventure across 27 states in India, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Myanmar, all without a wallet. This incredible journey allowed me to collect stories of resilience, innovation, and the incredible power of human connection.

Currently, I'm excited to be on my way to the International Conference on GCED in Seoul, South Korea, and the Ecoversities Asia Gathering in Vietnam, where I continue to expand my horizons and find inspiration for new avenues of change.

I'm a strong advocate for social justice and firmly believe in the symphony of possibilities that we can create together to paint a brighter and more inclusive tomorrow. As a couchsurfing host, I'm eager to share my passion for global exploration and transformative experiences with like-minded travelers.

Let's connect, share stories, and embark on a journey of cultural exchange and understanding. Whether you're passing through Kerala or visiting from afar, I look forward to hosting you and making your stay a memorable one. Let's write the next chapter of our adventures together!

Read more about me on
www.linkedin.com/in/najiindia

Find more about what I do at
www.theigniteindia.com
www.khojindia.in

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I'm on Couchsurfing because of the Gift that I can give and the gift I get being in this platform of Gift Economy. This concept of sharing and giving without expecting anything in return resonates deeply with me. Couchsurfing is more than just a place to find free accommodation; it's a space where we can share our cultures, our stories, and our warmth.

For me, Couchsurfing isn't just about offering a place to stay; it's about creating meaningful connections and building bridges between cultures. I'm passionate about learning from others, understanding different perspectives, and celebrating the rich diversity that our world offers.

By hosting travelers and being hosted by others, I hope to foster a spirit of openness, respect, and mutual learning. It's an opportunity to be a part of someone else's journey and make their stay memorable, just as I've had the privilege of experiencing the warmth and hospitality of fellow travelers in my own adventures.

Couchsurfing allows me to give back to the global community of explorers and embody the philosophy of the Gift Economy. It's a small way of contributing to the idea that we're all citizens of the world, bound by our shared experiences and dreams. So, whether you're a fellow wanderer or a curious soul seeking new experiences, I'm here to open my doors, share stories, and create lasting memories together. Let's embark on this incredible journey of connection and cultural exchange!

Interests

1. Mindful Living: I have a deep passion for mindful living, which involves being fully present in the moment, cultivating self-awareness, and embracing a conscious and balanced lifestyle. Whether it's through meditation, yoga, or simply taking time to appreciate the beauty of the world around me, I believe in the transformative power of mindfulness in enhancing well-being.

2. Experiencing People and Places Around the Globe: Traveling and meeting people from different cultures is one of my greatest joys. I'm a firm believer in the idea that the world is a book, and those who don't travel read only one page. Exploring new places and immersing myself in local customs, traditions, and cuisines is a source of endless inspiration. It's through these experiences that I learn about the diversity and unity of humanity.

3. Learning and Innovating: I'm an eternal student, always eager to learn and grow. Whether it's by taking courses, attending conferences, or simply engaging in meaningful conversations, I believe that continuous learning is the key to personal and societal growth. Innovation is another area of interest, as I'm driven to find creative solutions to pressing global challenges.

4. Creating Social Change: As a social entrepreneur, I'm deeply committed to creating positive social change. I'm passionate about nurturing young changemakers and fostering economic and social development in underprivileged areas. My work with initiatives like Ignite India, Khoj, and Take a Pause reflects my dedication to making a meaningful impact on society and empowering individuals to become catalysts for change.

In summary, my interests are driven by a profound appreciation for the art of mindful living, a love for exploring the world and its people, a thirst for knowledge and innovation, and an unwavering commitment to creating a better, more inclusive world through social change initiatives.

• culture
• books
• photography
• hiking
• economics
• philosophy
• mindfulness
• love
• meeting new people
• sustainable development
• peace and love
• sustainable living
• presence
• social change
• social entrepreneurship
• gift economy
• system designing

Music, Movies, and Books

Music: I have a deep appreciation for music, particularly when it includes traditional instruments and elements from nature. Exploring music in different languages allows me to connect with diverse cultures and experiences. I find inspiration in the way music can transcend language barriers and evoke powerful emotions.

Movies: I'm a person, who enjoys movies from all world languages as long as they offer something unique and worth savoring. I believe that films are windows into different cultures and perspectives, and I'm always open to cinematic experiences that broaden my horizons and tell compelling stories.

Books: Currently, I'm engrossed in two thought-provoking books. "Sacred Economics" by Charles Eisenstein and "From What Is to What If" by Rob Hopkins. These books resonate with my passion for learning and innovating, and they offer valuable insights into economics, sustainability, and the power of imaginative thinking.

The connection between my interests in mindful living, global exploration, and social change often influences my choice of music, movies, and books. Whether it's the meditative sounds of traditional instruments in music, the diverse stories and cultures portrayed in movies, or the thought-provoking ideas presented in books, I'm always on the lookout for experiences that align with my values and interests.

These cultural elements, along with my extensive work as a social entrepreneur and my commitment to creating social change, enrich my life and provide continuous inspiration. I believe that the arts, in their various forms, have the power to connect us, inspire innovation, and drive positive change in the world.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

One of the most amazing things I've done is embarking on a wallet-less journey in North East India that lasted for a month and a half. This adventure allowed me to traverse through the diverse and beautiful landscapes of the region, experiencing the rich cultures and traditions of the North East. During this remarkable journey, I collected stories of resilience, innovation, and the incredible power of human connection, which aligns perfectly with my passion for global exploration and social change.

This wallet-free journey reflects my belief in the magic of learning beyond the ordinary and my commitment to exploring the world, understanding different perspectives, and embracing the incredible diversity of our planet. It's a testament to the transformative power of travel and cultural immersion, where the true wealth lies in the connections we make and the experiences we gain.

Teach, Learn, Share

Teach: I have a profound passion for teaching and sharing knowledge. As a learning designer with extensive experience, I can help you design a life that's both meaningful and simplified. Drawing from my work in initiatives like Ignite India, Khoj, and Take a Pause, I have developed the skills to craft innovative learning experiences that can illuminate and inspire young minds. I believe in the power of education and personal transformation, and I'm here to guide and support you in your journey toward personal growth and meaningful learning.

Learn: I'm an eternal student, constantly seeking to expand my horizons and learn from the experiences and insights of others. I've been on an incredible 90-day wallet-free journey through North East India, collecting stories of resilience, innovation, and the power of human connection. This journey aligns with my passion for global exploration and social change. I'm eager to learn from your stories and experiences, as I believe that every interaction is an opportunity for mutual growth and understanding.

Share: I'm a firm believer in sharing the abundant life I've experienced and the light I've been able to bring to the lives of those around me. My journey as a social entrepreneur and my involvement with initiatives like Ignite India, Khoj, and Take a Pause have allowed me to impact the lives of many. I'm here to share the insights, experiences, and stories that have shaped my understanding of the world. I believe in the magic of connecting with fellow human souls, and I look forward to meaningful conversations that can inspire and illuminate our paths.

I'm excited to share, learn, and teach as we engage in cultural exchange and exploration! ❤️🌍✨

What I Can Share with Hosts

Compassion and Love: I firmly believe that the foundation of every meaningful interaction is compassion and love. Having journeyed through life as a social entrepreneur and advocate for global citizenship, I bring a genuine passion for connecting with people, understanding their stories, and spreading positivity. As a host, you can expect a warm and compassionate environment where we can engage in heartwarming conversations and build lasting connections.

Stories: My extensive travels and wallet-less adventure through North East India have gifted me with a treasure trove of stories. I'm eager to share these tales of resilience, innovation, and the incredible power of human connection. Whether it's stories from my social change initiatives or my experiences in different countries, you'll find a wealth of narratives to immerse yourself in and, hopefully, be inspired by.

Good Chai 😍: In the spirit of cultural exchange, I love sharing the simple joys of life. One of those joys is brewing a delightful cup of chai (tea). I can introduce you to the art of making and savoring a good cup of chai, perhaps even using traditional methods or local ingredients. It's a small but meaningful way to connect over a warm beverage and create memorable moments.

Let's create wonderful memories together! 😍🍵❤️

Countries I’ve Visited

Bangladesh, India, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, Singapore, South Korea, Viet Nam

Countries I’ve Lived In

Bangladesh, India