Namaste!
My name is Sam Detar, and I’m a 22-year-old student from Italy, currently working on my degree in Educational Sciences. I volunteered in Okhaldhunga for two months in the Youth Empowerment Programme, and as I near the end of my time with VIN, I would like to share my experience in the hopes that some of you will keep this important “mission” going.
Working with young people in the Okhaldhunga area has been one of the most fulfilling things I have ever done, first and foremost thanks to the strong relationship formed with them based on trust, respect, open communication, engagement and lots of laughter!
Once you get to know this “youth” you will understand how much incredible potential they have, but also that it is hard to fulfil due to contextual factors and the lack of resources and opportunities in their world.
These young people are the present and future of Nepal, and they are the driving force that generates change in their villages and communities. That’s why empowering them is crucial, to unlock opportunities and equip them with valuable life skills, supporting their personal growth and contributing to the improvement of the communities around them.
During my experience, we organized a range of activities, training sessions, and workshops, all aimed at developing essential life skills. These skills were taught through various interactive methodologies, such as debates, role-playing, brainstorming, storytelling, simulation, case studies, teamwork, and games. We also focused on developing professional skills, including creating a curriculum vitae, writing professional emails, and preparing for job interviews. Our work also involved assessing and supporting the present and future opportunities and goals of youth club members. We guided them in learning about their rights and responsibilities, promoting active participation and pro-social behaviours. Additionally, we dedicated time to teaching English, as many young people expressed a desire to learn the language to access more professional opportunities.
These guys enjoy going into the computer room and learning English with a website called “Games to learn English”. They also like typing in Word and learning basic computer skills (they love to CTRL S!), or creating posters about Nepal and their villages on Canva, which is a great instrument for developing creative thinking and basic design skills. Sometimes they may be less enthusiastic about active games or activities, but they always enjoy a good challenge! Last but not least, they love to dance to Nepali songs at the end of every training session, and it’s a great moment for you to have fun with them and learn some Nepali traditions.
The full potential of these young Nepali is unleashed when we engage in debates, discussions, and brainstorming sessions on all sorts of topics. They love to think outside of the box and share their ideas, views, and personal experiences. These activities are perfect for enhancing their communication skills, critical thinking, and active listening abilities. It’s highly essential to be there for them, to serve as a reference point, someone with whom they can talk and who can be of inspiration. It’s also very important to be flexible, adaptable and keep an open mind to new ways of thinking, listening, and being present.
The Youth Empowerment Program has a bright and hopeful future. The program is expanding rapidly, with three new youth clubs set to be officially registered shortly. There has also been an increase in the number of young people participating in the general youth training, indicating a growing interest and engagement in the program’s mission. This is a pivotal moment for the program, and the positive momentum suggests that the program is having a meaningful impact on the lives of these young people.
You as the next generation of volunteers will embrace this program with the same passion and dedication that it has inspired in me, as it has the potential to be a life-changing experience both for the young stakeholders and you the volunteers!
I look forward to watching this work evolve.
Samuel Detar
Member of