Importance Of Growing Enviroment And Its Impact On Youth

In the last few decades, human activities and issues such as climate change, pollution, deforestation, and biodiversity loss have drastically changed the environment, impacting the younger generation. Now, youth are not only facing the inheritance of the world’s problems but are also in a position to find a solution. The growing up environment has an impact on physical health, mental wellbeing, social dynamics, and future opportunities. This article reveals why addressing the social issues is crucial for safeguarding the wellbeing and empowerment of youth.

Physical Health Impact

The key problem of an imbalanced lifestyle is poor health conditions. The environmental crisis directly affects the health of young people. Air pollution, for example, is one of the leading problems of respiratory disease, which causes diseases like asthma and bronchitis, especially among children and adolescents. Similarly, water poses water contamination disease, leading to the youth having waterborne diseases such as cholera and dysentery. Moreover, the changing climate has led to extreme events in the environment, such as heatwaves, floods, landslides, and hurricanes. These activities disproportionally affect vulnerable populations, including the young population, causing severe health problems. Poor nutrition is caused by food scarcity, an outcome of drought and changing agricultural patterns. Addressing health hazards is essential to ensure that youth can grow in an environment that supports their physical well-being.

Mental Health And Emotional Wellbeing

The growing crisis of the environment has given rise to a phenomenon called “eco-anxiety,” a term used to describe the chronic fear of environmental doom. Many youths feel overwhelmed and helpless in the face of large-scale environmental degradation. This anxiety is triggered by witnessing the destruction of the ecosystem, hearing about the potential loss of biodiversity, and realizing the planet’s uncertain future. Eco-anxiety is not just fear; it often stems from a deep sense of responsibility and lack of control over the situation. People actively involved in environmental activism may experience burnout or despair when change seems slow and insufficient. Therefore, providing more platforms where young people can actively participate in ecological solutions can mitigate this kind of mental health challenges. Education, awareness, and open dialogue can empower youth to feel optimistic and capable of driving change.

Social And Economic Impact

Environmental degradation cascades social and economic structures, influencing the opportunities available to the younger generation. For instance, climate-induced displacement disrupts education and social stability for millions of youth worldwide. Families are forced to migrate due to rising sea levels and often lose access to schools, healthcare, and stable jobs. Youths from marginalized communities are more affected, as they lack the resources to recover from environmental shocks. This inequality creates a cycle of poverty and vulnerability, making it difficult for these young people to thrive. However, addressing this problem through inclusive policies and sustainable development initiatives is critical for creating a fair and just society.

Youth As Agent Of Change

While there is a challenging environmental crisis scenario, it provides opportunities for youth to take charge of building a sustainable future. Around the world, youth are at the forefront of climate action movements, raising awareness and pushing for policy changes. Figures like GRETA THUNBERG and organizations such as Fridays for Future have demonstrated the power of youth, showing how they can influence public discourse and demand accountability from governments and corporations. However, youth activism should not be limited to protest and advocacy. For example, training in renewable energy technologies, sustainable agriculture, and waste management can empower youth to contribute directly to environmental conservation.

Government, NGOs, and private sectors also have a key role in creating opportunities for youth to engage in green jobs and entrepreneurship. Investing in industries like renewable energy, eco-tourism, and sustainable manufacturing can provide young people with employment opportunities while contributing to environmental sustainability.

Building A Resilient Future

Looking at these growing environmental impacts on youth requires a multifaceted approach combining policy interventions, community engagement, and individual responsibility. Governments should also prioritize reducing carbon emissions, protecting natural habitats, and investing in renewable energy. Education institutions should also focus more on environmental literacy to prepare students for the challenges and opportunities of a changing world.

At the same time, youth should also empower themselves to take action in their communities. Small steps at a time, such as reducing waste, conserving energy, and supporting local initiatives, can collectively make a huge difference. Also, collaboration with the older generation helps in sharing knowledge and resources to support youth-led efforts.

Conclusion

The increasing environmental crisis of youth is a pressing issue that demands immediate attention. From health to mental wellbeing to social and economic stability. The effects of ecological degradation are profound, while this crisis also provides opportunities for youth to take the initiative for change. By empowering youth with quality education, resources, and opportunities, society can ensure a brighter, more sustainable future for future generations. Addressing the issue is not just about saving the planet. It’s also about securing the wellbeing and potential of today’s youth and leaders.

This article was prepared by smritee Nepal

Halfway through our deployment in Nepal, all I feel is gratitude. Gratitude for the people I’ve met and the warm hospitality of the Nepali people, for the children I’ve had the joy of teaching and playing with, for my colleagues and friends with whom I’ve shared countless meaningful moments, and for both my sending and host organizations that made it all possible.

Nepal has been by far one of the most interesting places I’ve ever visited. From its diverse climates and landscapes to the breathtaking mountain scenery. The incredibly spicy, but tasty food that has kept me warm during the cold months, the colorful streets and villages, festivals, and the vast array of smells, animals, and religious sites —it’s a unique place that offers something new at every turn, both in the city and in the countryside.

Living in Nepal has given me some of the most exciting experiences and has been a journey of both self-discovery and growth. One of the most unforgettable moments I will always cherish was hiking to Pikey Peak, in the lower Khumbu region of Nepal, during winter. Together with friends, we welcomed the New Year, 2025, with a stunning view of Everest in the distance.

We spent two days in the mountains encountering yaks and Nepal’s national bird, crossing forests and open fields, and meeting both locals and fellow travelers along the way. We stayed overnight at a Sherpa lodge to rest and restore ourselves, where we also gained insights into Sherpa culture and way of life.

Most importantly, we reached the summit of Pikey Peak together, where we were rewarded with an incredible view—watching the sunrise over one side of the mountain while the majestic Himalayan range painted in white stretched out on the other.

But Nepal’s wonders go beyond its landscapes. The daily orange sunrise one can see from the Okhaldhunga region, or the occasional red moon that graces the sky, are vivid reminders of the country’s deep connection with nature, spirituality, and the interplay between humanity and the natural world.

During a hike to Rumjatar, in eastern Nepal, I was surprised to come across with wedding celebrations that featured no husband. Little did I know that this cerimony was a Newari tradition, practiced by 4.6% of the total population of Nepal, which requires the girl to first merry a bell-fruit or wood apple before hitting puberty. This cerimony is known as ‘Bel Bibah.’

Rumjatar, November 23rd, 2024.

In Newari culture, girls have three wedding cerimonies to escape the stigma of widowood. They merry a bell-apple, the sun, and then, at last, a man. The bell-fruit, with its hard shell, symbolizes the wish for a strong groom. It is believed by some to represent Suvama Kumar, the son of Lord Shiva, while others associate it with Lord Vishnu. This tradition not only safeguards her dignity but also grants her the freedom to remarry, ensuring her future remains open and full of possibility.

Okhaldhunga, February 2Cth, 2025.

Recently, I also took part in one of Nepal’s most significant Hindu festivals dedicated to Lord Shiva – Maha Shivaratri or “The Great Night of Shiva”. This sacred festival celebrates the union of Shiva and Shakti, representing the balance of the divine masculine and feminine energies. Throughout the festival, devotees gather at temples to offer prayers, meditate, fast, and light large bonfires while singing and dancing in devotion to receive blessings for prosperity, wisdom, inner peace, and liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

The day served as a powerful self-reflection, spiritual awakening, and transformation, reminding of the the split of destruction and creation within the universe, symbolizing the cyclical nature of life. As guests, we were warmly welcomed into the celebrations, sharing in the music, traditional food, and a special festive drink that carried the night into a joyous and unforgettable experience.

Nepal has a long tradition of religious interconnectedness, particularly between Hinduism and Buddhism, which share similarities in their beliefs and a deep sense of gratitude for life’s experiences. There is a prevailing notion that everything happens for a reason, carrying meaning that can be traced back to our origins and even across multiple universes.

Curious by nature, I have never identified as a religious person, yet I found myself at a crossroads, searching for answers and a deeper understanding of my purpose in life. This led me to a unique experience, spending five days living and studying at a Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Kathmandu. During my time there, I delved into Buddhist principles and psychology, particularly in relation to emotions and how to manage them in ways that cultivate happiness, not just for ourselves but for others as well.

This intense spiritual and academic journey at the monastery, alongside people from all walks of life, has been truly life-changing. It is incredible what just five days of meditation and deep discussions on compassion, emotions, life, and death can do for us. Sharing this experience with others in a somewhat similar position made me realize that there is no “right timing” for anything in life.

Kopan Monastery, February 2nd, 2025.

Wisdom and peace are not synonymous with age or growing older, they must be continuously practiced in our everyday lives by being present and fully embracing each moment. In the end, all we seek is happiness, to experience it for as long as possible, and that is what unites us all.

Even though I may not have found exactly what I am searching for, Nepal has opened many doors for me, spirituality being one of them. Not just through its many temples, stupas, religious ceremonies, and ethnic traditions, but also through its deep connection with nature and the resilience it fosters during life’s challenges. I do believe I ended up in Nepal for

a reason, and this belief will carry me for the remaining of my days in this beautiful country, and long after I leave. No matter where life takes me next, Nepal’s cultural wonders will continue shaping how I see the world and how I choose to live life.

Sources

• Government of Nepal. (2021). National Population and Housing Census. Available at: https://censusnepal.cbs.gov.np/results/files/result-folder/Caste%20Ethnicity_report_NPHC_2021.pdf.

• Times of India. (2018). Nepal’s Newari community: Where girls marry a fruit and the Sun. Available at: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/ world/south-asia/nepals-newari- community-where-girls-marry-a-fruit- and-the- sun/articleshow/64643311.cms.

• Volunteers Initiative Nepal. (2024). Maha Shivaratri: A Sacred Night of Devotion and Spiritual Awakening. Available at: https://www.volunteersinitiativenepal.org/festivals/maha-shivaratri-nepal/.

writeen by Ana Rafaela

The term develop sustainable development is not just about constructing infrastructure or launching social projects but also ensuring long term benefits for the communities. And the lowest effective way to achieve this is by fostering a sense of ownership among a local people because when individual and communities take responsibility for project they are more likely to maintain and protect them which lead to the lasting development. Therefore, this article explores the importance of ownership in long-term development, particularly in infrastructure and community based initiative.

UNDERSTANDING OWNERSHIP IN DEVELOPMENT

Here the ownership in development indicates every individual, communities or institutions actively participate in planning, implementing and maintaining projects. Which can take a different form

• Participation of community-people while engaging local people in decision making and project planning
• Building of capacity- By providing all the individual skills and training to sustain projects beyond external support
• Involvement of economic-By the purpose of development initiative they should be provided with creating employment and business opportunities

The time when community feel the sense of ownership they are more likely to value and sustain projects. Also reducing dependency on external organization.

THE ROLE OF OWNERSHIP IN SUSTAINABLE INFRASTRUCTURE

We all human have this behavior of having sense of ownership or we always seek for it, while growing up I used to have shared room with my sister which made me somehow lazy about things going on in my surroundings or I would just wait for her to clean up the mess, I was lacking for things to hold my authority but when I went to high-school I got my own personal room which I decorated on my own and if anything’s would go wrong then immediately, I would fix it that’s how I got my insight on community development. For the economic growth of the country infrastructure project such as roads, water supply and hydropower plants are essential, however, without community involvement, due to poor maintenance and lack of accountability many projects fail. Ownership in infrastructure develop so many things which can be as follows:

• Better planning and site selection- The knowledge from the local people who live in community have the better understanding about the community who helps to identify the best location for projects, reducing risk like landslides and flooding.
• Regular maintenance and sustainability-when individuals form community starts to feel responsible for infrastructure, they take care of it ensuring a long term functionality.
• Disaster resilience- Nepal being prone to earthquakes and landslide is well known, that’s why community people have already preparedness crucial in maintaining infrastructure after disasters.

For example: road projects in rural area that involves local participation often last longer than those built without consulting the community. When local people contributes in the labor or financial resources, they are more like invested in project success.

OWNERSHIP IN SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Ownership plays significance role in education, healthcare and economic growth not just only in infrastructure development. In social development community development enhances so many things such as

• Education- The schools that are established with community participation tend to have better management and student’s performance. locals also ensure that teachers are accountable and resources are well utilized.
• Health care services- health centers run by the community provide the better access to care, as locals take responsibility for managing facilities and spreading awareness.
• Entrepreneurship and job creation-when people are involved in or they have the ownership in local business or cooperatives, they contribute to economic stability and self-reliance.

For instance, community forestry in Nepal is the successful model where local group manage the forest resources. Because they have ownership, they protect forests while also generating income through sustainable use.

CHALLENGES TO OWNERSHIP AND LONG TERM DEVELOPMENT

Despite its benefits, it comes with sort of challenges

• Lack of awareness and training- even though they hold the accountability they have lack of awareness and training, knowledge and skills to manage projects independently.
• Dependency on external aid- when projects are fully funded by external agencies, locals might not feel sense of responsibility for sustaining them.
• Limited financial resources- due to economic constraints some community might fails or struggle to maintain infrastructure.

SOLUTIONS TO STRENGTHEN OWNERSHIP

To promote the ownership and also strengthen the long term development, the following strategies can be adopted:

• Empowering communities with leadership roles- By encouraging them in local decision making and governance.
• Providing training and capacity building- equipping people with skills to manage and maintain projects.
• Encouraging public-private partnership- in order to develop community for sustainable goal, engaging them with local business and organization.

CONCLUSION

Ownership is the foundation of the long term development. When community takes responsibility for the community development projects, they are more likely to maintain and sustain them. Whether in infrastructure, education, healthcare or economic development, fostering community with ownership or giving them accountability ensures that progress continues even after external supports ends. In order to sustain the sustainable development goals, government, organizations and communities must work together to create a sense of responsibility and active participation in every projects.

This article is prepared by Smritee Nepal

Physical activity: “A vector for self-fulfillment beyond physical effort”

Sport is often seen as a way of keeping fit, but it plays a much wider role in our well-being. In this article, we explore the impact of sport on our health and mental health.

Physical activity: a public health issue

Physical activity is defined as “any bodily movement produced by skeletal muscles that requires energy expenditure” (WHO). Regular physical activity has a positive impact on health, while a sedentary lifestyle has a negative impact on the general health of the population and on the prevalence of non-communicable diseases (hypertension, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, etc.).

The WHO recommendations are aimed at all ages, all genders, all socio-economic statuses and all abilities. [1]

It is recommended that children and teenagers (aged 5/17) get an average of 60 minutes of physical activity a day. The benefits of daily physical activity include “improved physical fitness, cardio-metabolic health, bone condition, cognitive performance, mental health and reduced adiposity”.

For adults (aged 18/64), it is recommended that they engage in at least 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity or 75 to 150 minutes of high-intensity physical activity. The benefits for adults are “an improvement in all-cause mortality, cardiovascular disease mortality, incident hypertension, certain cancers, type 2 diabetes, mental health, cognitive health and sleep, and measures of adiposity”.

For the elderly (aged 65 and over), it is recommended that they take part in at least 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity activity, or at least 75 to 150 minutes of high-intensity activity. The benefits for the elderly are the same as for the adult age group, but it also helps “to prevent falls and associated injuries, decline in bone condition and functional capacity. Physical activity helps to maintain the body’s mobility and functionality, thereby reducing the risk of dependency and improving independence”.

One of the advantages of physical activity is the diversity of possibilities it offers, enabling everyone to find an activity that suits them.

The benefits of sport for mental health

Physical activity is seen as a way of preventing the development of mental health problems and improving the quality of life of people suffering from mental illness. 

Physical activity influences the brain through neurobiological mechanisms that modify mood, emotions and cognition. During physical activity, our brain releases endorphins. Endorphins are defined as a natural analgesic, helping to reduce the perception of pain and producing a sensation of pleasure. Endorphins therefore contribute to a feeling of well-being. Our brain produces two neurotransmitters that are involved in regulating mood and happiness: dopamine and serotonin. The study by Kuron et al. (2018) shows that when we engage in physical activity the levels of these neurotransmitters increase, leading to better mood regulation and a feeling of happiness. In addition, physical activity helps to regulate the production of cortisol, which is the stress hormone.

Physical activity has been shown to have a positive effect on our psychological state, reducing symptoms of anxiety, depression and stress. It improves sleep quality and emotional management. Exercising outdoors allows you to enjoy the benefits of nature and the sun, improving your mood and regulating your circadian rhythm.

The study by Blumenthal et al (2007) assessed whether aerobic training at home or in a supervised setting had comparable results to antidepressants in terms of reducing depression. The results indicate that the effects of exercise in a patient suffering from severe depression are comparable to patients treated with antidepressants. [2] Herring, O’Connor and Dishman (2010) carried out a systematic review on the effects of physical training on anxiety symptoms with patients suffering from a chronic illness. They showed that patients who took part in physical training significantly reduced their anxiety symptoms. Physical training reduces anxiety symptoms in sedentary patients with chronic illness. [3]

These studies show that physical activity helps to improve mental health. Whether it’s depression or anxiety, but it can also help to improve emotional management. By improving mood in the short term and influencing stress management. Exercise increases resistance to stress because it helps the body to react better to stressors by strengthening physiological and mental resilience.

Regular exercise is an essential part of maintaining good health. On a physical level, sport improves physiological health and strengthens the immune system, enabling the body to defend itself more effectively. Mentally, sport helps to reduce stress, anxiety, depressive symptoms and mood/emotion management. Making sport a regular part of your daily routine is an essential part of leading a harmonious and fulfilling life, with lasting benefits for both your physical and mental health.

Reference

• WHO guidelines on physical activity and sedentary behaviour: at a glance. Geneve : World health organization; 2020.
• Blumenthal, J. A., Babyak, M. A., Doraiswamy, P. M., Watkins, L., Hoffman, B. M., Barbour, K. A., Herman, S., Craighead, W. E., Brosse, A. L., Waugh, R., Hinderliter, A., & Sherwood, A. (2007). Exercise and pharmacotherapy in the treatment of major depressive disorder. Psychosomatic medicine, 69(7), 587–596. https://doi.org/10.1097/PSY.0b013e318148c19a
• Herring, M. P., O’Connor, P. J., & Dishman, R. K. (2010). The effect of exercise training on anxiety symptoms among patients: A systematic review. Archives of Internal Medicine, 170(4), 321–331. https://doi.org/10.1001/archinternmed.2009.530

Does Volunteering always make a positive impact?

In my last article, I came up with this question and aimed to make aware of unintentional effects on the volunteering praxis. Many volunteers are white and might not have deeply thought about their power positions and privileges in comparison to Nepali people. This can lead to an even more unsatisfactory position of Nepali people and the possible feeling of even being more deprivileged after your stay. I believe that self-reflection is the basic and first step to addressing these unwanted issues and create a volunteering experience in which you can learn, grow and make your contribution for Nepali society.

The question What stereotypes or biases do you hold about the local community? as well as the question Does your presence unintentionally reinforce neocolonialism, racism, or global inequalities? were guiding through the last article. Also, this article will be shaped by two main questions, which I will place in a common context while briefly incorporating personal experience and emotions. Starting off with the first key question for you to reflect on:

Is white saviorism influencing your perception of volunteering?

Volunteering abroad is often criticized for upholding the “white savior” narrative, but what does it mean?

White saviorism refers to a pattern where white individuals (unintentionally) position themselves as rescuers of marginalized communities, mostly in the Global South in countries like Nepal, while overlooking the agency, expertise, and lived experiences of the people they claim to help. In the context of volunteering abroad, this narrative casts white volunteers as active helpers, as “saviors” and local communities as passive recipients of aid. Consequently, new or existing stereotypes about character traits of white and non-white people are strengthened by role distribution. For understanding the subsequent danger, please see the first article of this two-piece.

Looking at the issues even on a deeper level, Nepali people might take the implicit message that you are superior. They may perceive you as superior and as helper. For example, when visiting schools as part of a project, students may unconsciously learn that white people are educated, intelligent, and powerful. This can reinforce the idea that white people are the ones who explain how things should work because they ‘know better.’ After all, why else would white people travel across the globe? – this might be a thought that arises.

Summing up, this dynamic is problematic because it can reinforce power imbalances, might diminish the role of local leaders and perpetuate colonial-era ideas of superiority.

Looking back to my life, I must admit that in my youth, I did not know about the white savior dynamics and had the wish to make a change for the better and to help, without reflecting to a deeper level if or which support is really needed and wanted. Was this after all also a service to myself to feel better as a white person? Later, I learned the importance of always reflecting about the position as white person and supporting people to do things themselves, to empower and moreover to acknowledge or even celebrate when my opinion or help is not needed. Nowadays, the leading question Is white saviorism influencing your perception of volunteering? always helps me on the way I respond to Nepali people and how I try to behave.

These thoughts about white saviorism lead seamlessly to the second key question:

Does your involvement in truly align with the needs of the community, or is it shaped by external assumptions?

Instead of addressing systemic inequalities, white saviorism often centers the volunteer’s experience over the needs of the community, leading to short-term, superficial solutions rather than meaningful, sustainable change.

Volunteers may misinterpret local contexts, overestimate their skills, or impose their ideas without considering the community’s perspective, which might harm rather than provide support.

This means, you should critically assess whether their work aligns with the community’s expressed needs or reflects external assumptions about what is “helpful.” Learning about allyship is crucial to ensure meaningful and respectful engagement.

Following on from that, you can also reflect on your preparation and aim of the service. When poorly planned or brief, such experiences may provide little meaningful assistance, instead prioritizing the volunteer’s sense of fulfillment or exposure to a new culture.  Also, some volunteers might prioritize your personal fulfilment and see the service rather as an adventure that is designed by your needs and wishes. This overshadows the actual needs of the local community.

In my personal experience in Nepal, my team listens to the needs of the local community. We had assumptions on Gender Equality interventions which might be of advantage for the communities, and we even learned in Nepal that these assumptions are important, but on the field, it turned out to be different. This changed my whole volunteering experience. I did interventions that I would have less prioritized and have adjusted my views on the ‘right’ implementation of equality. In doing so, the second key question of this article has guided me.

So, does that mean I should not do volunteering at all?

Maybe this question came to your mind while reading and I made it up already in my first article. The conclusion will stay the same: I recommend that you find an answer by yourself, here is mine: To judge if you should volunteer or not was never the point of the article. I am a volunteer myself at the moment and I had these learnings long before coming here to Nepal. As you see, I still concluded in being a volunteer. My point is that it is very crucial that you check your privileges and reflect on the way you tend to see your position in the context of helping. Read and inform yourself as much as possible about global imbalances, listen to people from Global South and never forget to reflect on yourself. That will support grounding your approach to volunteering in humility. I know you are wise enough to do so and I wish you all the best 😊

Disclaimer

The description of Nepali people in this discussion cannot and should not be generalized, as every individual and community is unique. Personal experiences with people in Nepal can vary widely. This article draws on a combination of academic research and personal insights, aiming to highlight patterns and questions worth considering for more conscious engagement.

The article is written by a white person volunteering in Nepal and addresses to white people.

This article is part 2 of earlier articles: Reflections on White Privilege Before Volunteering Abroad

Prepared by:
Doreem Regenscheit
Project : YWC Women Empowerment
ESC Volunteering 2024/25

In recent years, Nepal has faced significant challenges due to natural disasters, particularly the devastating earthquake of 2015. This disaster left deep scars on the nation’s economy, infrastructure, and the lives of its people.

In response, the Volunteers Initiative Nepal (VIN) has been actively working to minimize the impact of future disasters through its comprehensive Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) programs. The goal is to reduce disaster risks, promote community safety, and provide relief to vulnerable populations.

Educating Communities on DRR

A key focus of VIN’s work is educating communities about Disaster Risk Reduction. Through awareness sessions, VIN teaches local populations about the importance of understanding and preparing for disasters. Topics such as disaster response, mitigation strategies, and building resilience are central to these programs.

The organization emphasizes the need for communities to understand the stages of disaster management prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery. The DRR awareness sessions are designed to equip people with the knowledge and tools they need to face disasters.

VIN’s approach aims to empower communities to take proactive steps towards disaster resilience, instead of waiting for government or external aid. By focusing on preparedness and response techniques, the initiative encourages individuals to implement life-saving strategies in the face of disasters like earthquakes, floods, and landslides.

Building Resilient Infrastructure

One of VIN’s core strategies to reduce disaster risks is through the construction and rehabilitation of disaster-resilient infrastructure. These projects include building resilient homes, schools, public toilets, and water supply systems, as well as micro-irrigation systems that can combat the impacts of natural disasters. This infrastructure plays a crucial role in minimizing the damage caused by earthquakes, floods, and landslides.

The aim is to provide long-term solutions that protect communities and ensure that they can continue to function even after a disaster strikes. By constructing buildings that can endure the forces of nature, VIN is not only safeguarding lives but also creating a foundation for sustainable recovery.

Empowering Communities Through Skills Development

In addition to infrastructure, VIN focuses on skills development and entrepreneurship to strengthen communities in the face of disaster. By providing training in areas such as agriculture Permaculture Techniques, construction, and small business development.

VIN is helping individuals and families gain the skills needed to recover from disasters and build more resilient livelihoods. This strategy ensures that, in the event of a disaster, affected people can quickly regain their independence and continue their lives with minimal disruption.

A Comprehensive Disaster Risk Reduction Approach

VIN’s approach to Disaster Risk Reduction is structured around four key phases: Mitigation, Preparedness, Rapid Response, and Recovery. The organization’s efforts in Nepal are built on these phases, ensuring that communities are not only prepared for disaster but also have the resources to recover quickly and effectively.

1. Mitigation: Preventing or minimizing the impact of disasters, such as by reinforcing buildings and teaching disaster-resistant construction methods.
2. Preparedness: Ensuring that communities are ready to respond to disasters by having plans, resources, and training in place.
3. Rapid Response: Providing immediate aid and rescue operations during a disaster to minimize loss of life and reduce harm.
4. Recovery: Helping communities rebuild after a disaster, with a focus on sustainable practices and long-term resilience.

The Growing Need for Disaster Risk Reduction in Nepal

Nepal faces several challenges in managing disaster risks. The country is located in a seismically active zone, and cities like Kathmandu are particularly vulnerable to earthquakes. Rapid urbanization, poor construction practices, and lack of proper disaster preparedness increase the risks, particularly in densely populated areas.

Each year, floods and landslides cause around 300 deaths in Nepal and result in economic losses of over US$10 million. These disasters disproportionately affect marginalized and impoverished communities, who bear the heaviest burden. Without proper education, infrastructure, and preparedness, the damage from such disasters can be devastating.

VIN’s Role in Shaping a Resilient Future

VIN is addressing these challenges by closing the awareness gap surrounding Disaster Risk Reduction. Its efforts focus on shifting community attitudes, encouraging local populations to take ownership of disaster preparedness, and providing practical solutions that can make a real difference. This proactive approach ensures that vulnerable populations are better equipped to face the challenges of natural disasters.

By mobilizing communities, building resilient infrastructure, and promoting long-term preparedness strategies, VIN is making a significant impact in disaster-prone areas of Nepal. The organization’s work continues to evolve, always looking for new ways to reduce the risks associated with natural disasters and ensure that communities are better prepared and equipped to handle the inevitable challenges of the future.

Conclusion

VIN’s Disaster Risk Reduction programs are vital for improving the resilience of communities in Nepal. VIN is helping to create a safer, more prepared future for those most at risk. Through education, infrastructure development, and empowerment.

By addressing the root causes of vulnerability and focusing on sustainable recovery strategies, VIN is not only reducing the impact of disasters but also fostering a sense of hope and self-reliance among the people of Nepal.

As the country continues to face the threat of natural disasters, initiatives like these are crucial in ensuring that its people can weather the storms, rebuild their lives, and emerge stronger in the face of adversity.

Explore VIN’s Other Programs in Nepal

In a world where storytelling is more dynamic than ever, the ability to capture powerful images that convey emotions, stories, and history has become an essential skill. This is the core of Photo Journalism, and at VIN (Volunteers Initiative Nepal), we offer an immersive program that introduces you to the art of photo journalism and allows you to experience Nepal’s rich cultural heritage.

A Brief History of Journalism in Nepal

The history of journalism in Nepal dates back to the mid-19th century, when the country saw its first press introduction by the Rana Prime Minister, Jung Bahadur Rana, in 1851. This innovation paved the way for the country’s print media, and by 1901, the state-run newspaper Gorkhapatra was established. However, it was only in the 1950s, after the fall of the Rana regime, that journalism truly began to thrive in Nepal with numerous journalists taking charge of publishing newspapers.

Over the years, journalism in Nepal has evolved with the times, adapting to the changing demands of both print and digital media. The role of photo journalism has become increasingly vital, offering a visual representation of stories that are often as impactful as words themselves. Whether through capturing rural life, social issues, or heritage sites, photo journalism plays a crucial role in shaping public perception and understanding.

The VIN Photo Journalism Program: A Unique Opportunity

VIN’s Photo Journalism program offers you the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the heart of Nepal, combining your passion for photography with the chance to tell stories that matter. The program is designed for individuals who want to immerse themselves in Nepal’s culture and language while contributing to meaningful projects in rural communities.

Upon arrival, you will be assigned specific events, themes, and stories to capture. These could range from community festivals, local life, and social issues to Nepal’s stunning natural beauty and historic sites and various VIN Projects. Through your lens, you’ll help share Nepal’s untold stories, bringing attention to important issues while exploring new areas of interest in the country.

Why Choose VIN’s Photo Journalism Program?

• Cultural Immersion: Living with a host family or in a local hostel ensures that you become fully immersed in Nepali culture, giving you deeper insights that will inform and enrich your photography.
• Hands-On Learning: This program offers a perfect balance of practical photography experience and cultural learning, equipping you with skills that are highly valued in the world of journalism.
• Make a Difference: Your work will not only enhance your portfolio but also contribute to a greater cause, as you help shed light on important social issues and share the stories of Nepal’s rural communities.
• Professional Connections: VIN’s partnerships with local media houses provide you with networking opportunities and a chance to learn from seasoned professionals in the field.

Conclusion

VIN’s Photo Journalism program is more than just a photography course—it’s a chance to immerse yourself in a vibrant culture, capture the heart of Nepal, and tell stories that resonate with people around the world. Whether you’re an aspiring photo journalist or a seasoned professional looking to expand your horizons, this program offers a truly unique experience that blends adventure, learning, and meaningful impact.

If you’re ready to explore the beauty of Nepal through your lens and make a difference through storytelling, join us at VIN for an unforgettable photo journalism experience.

Reach out today or apply now and discover how you can make your mark in the world of photo journalism with VIN!

If you’re new to DSLR photography, understanding aperture, shutter speed, and ISO is key to mastering your shots. 📷 Learn the fundamentals of DSLR settings here: DSLR Camera Basics: Aperture, Shutter Speed & ISO.

Women’s Empowerment in Nepal: How VIN is Driving Change for Gender Equality

Introduction

Women’s empowerment is essential for sustainable development, especially in Nepal, where gender imbalances persist within most rural societies. Although some improvements have been made recently, women still encounter challenges in acquiring education, gainful employment, medical attention, and leadership positions. Volunteers Initiatives Nepal ( VIN ) is one key organization that has bridged the gaps by promoting gender equality and empowering women in various ways.

VIN is a non-profit and non-governmental organization established in 2005. It works in several areas, including Women’s Empowerment, Youth Engagement, Public Health, Child Development, and Disaster Risk Reduction. Among these pillars, the Women’s Empowerment Program is critical in protecting women’s rights, increasing resource access, and enhancing women’s self-sufficiency in Nepal.

In this article, the effect of women’s empowerment campaigns and activities on gender equality in Nepal undertaken by VIN and other stakeholders for the country will be discussed, with a special focus on the organization’s achievements in women’s empowerment through education, economic autonomy, leadership, and advocacy.

VIN’s Strategy Towards Women Empowerment

VIN combines grassroots mobilization and an integrated approach to ensure women acquire skills, knowledge, and resources to live self-reliant and empowered lives. The organization works on five projects that help women’s rights advocacy:

1. Women’s Empowerment through Education

Education is indispensable. However, many women, especially in rural Nepal, do not have proper education. To solve these issues, VIN undertakes the following actions:

• Conducting workshops to support women’s reading, writing, and numeracy knowledge.
• Training women on computer literacy to improve their chances of gaining employment.
• Facilitating workshops aimed at legal awareness, reproductive health, and gender-based violence.

VIN provides women with healthcare, career, and family education, ensuring they can make key decisions.

2. Self Employment Empowerment Economic Development

Women empowerment encompasses having financial freedom. VIN enables women to acquire income-generating skills and engage in:

• Vocational training for self-employment in sewing, crafts, candle making, and farming.
• Women’s small business entrepreneurship can be achieved by encouraging microfinance to start and maintain small-scale enterprises.
• Women’s cooperatives for joint savings and loan associations.

These activities promote self-employment for women and, therefore, help women combat poverty face-on.

3. Social and Health Wellbeing for Women

Women in Nepal face numerous barriers to accessing healthcare services, which contribute significantly to reproductive health issues and an alarming maternal mortality rate. The Public Health Program of VIN addresses women’s health concerns by:

• Conducting screenings as well as health camps for check-ups.
• Providing reusable sanitary towels and menstrual hygiene education.
• Teaching women about nutrition, family planning, and other maternal health practices for holistic well-being.

With this comprehensive approach to women’s health, VIN empowers women to become more healthy and productive members of society.

4. Sister Advocacy and Women’s Leadership Empowerment

According to VIN, empowering women to lead their communities drives change. Therefore, the organization facilitates the development of leadership skills by:

• Facilitating women’s leadership training and encouraging their involvement in decision-making.
• Supporting women interested in social change through advocacy and activism by providing mentorship.
• Working with other stakeholders at the local and national levels to advocate for policies that benefit women.

In encouraging leadership, VIN ensures that women do not remain passive recipients of change but actively partake in transforming their communities.

5. Negative Attitudes Towards Gender: Violence and Discrimination

Gender-based violence is one of the persistent challenges to development in Nepal. VIN significantly mitigates the issue by taking three steps:

  •  Conducting campaigns on domestic violence and child marriage. 

  •  Offering free legal representation and counseling services to victims of abuse. 

  •  Collaborating with grassroots organizations aimed at supporting and rehabilitating abuse survivors.  

VIN helps build civic spaces for women and fights for justice, thus enabling women to live without fear of repression or violence.

The Change Brought About By VIN’s Women Empowerment Initiatives

VIN’s Women Empowerment Program is admired for its change initiatives within target communities. Some of the changes include:

• Higher literacy levels for women of non-functional education.
• Financial self-sufficiency through micro businesses and vocational training.
• Better health awareness results in better maternal and child health.
• Improved representation of women in decision-making positions in families and the wider community.
• Reduction of gender violence cases through education and other programs.

Ending Challenges And Future Strategies

Despite its successes, there are challenges to advancing women’s rights that VIN faces, such as:

 •  Changing deeply ingrained patriarchal practices.  

 •  Adequate funding to expand programs is sorely lacking.  

 •  Reaching those in outlying communities that are socio-geographic islands.

 • Sociocultural stereotypes linked to topics of menstruation and domestic violence

To achieve this goal, VIN intends to:

• Incorporate more rural and underserved populations into its programs.
• Develop collaborations with other local and international partners who will add value.
• Teach more women through the application of digital technology.
• Push for better government policies and enforcement concerning gender equality.

In Summary

VIN’s work on advocacy for women’s rights has transformed Nepal significantly and irreversibly. While empowering women and ensuring gender equality are the organization’s focus, education, economic self-sufficiency, health, and leadership are its pillars. The work is far from over, and a fully just society is yet to be achieved. This will require the effort of all non-governmental and governmental institutions and societal structures.

Through VIN’s continuous efforts and creativity, the people of Nepal stand poised for a time when women will be able to grow, take charge, and contribute to creating an equal and fair society.

Articles By: Jemini Shrestha
YWC ESC 2 Women Empowerment
Tarkeshwar – 3, Kathmandu, Nepal