At LP4Y's Green Village in Calauan, Philippines, Youth took the lead in celebrating Pride Month by organizing a community event dedicated to raising awareness and fostering understanding. Watch their testimonies and discover why they believe inclusion starts with listening, learning, and respecting one another!

LP4Y Bangladesh Company Visit with It's Humanity Foundation (IHF) For marginalized Youth, accessing professional opportunities can often be challenging. Limited networks, lack of professional experience, and fewer opportunities to meet companies can make the transition into the working world more difficult. This is why partnerships between organizations like LP4Y Bangladesh and It's Humanity Foundation (IHF) are so important. By working together, partners can create opportunities that Youth may not otherwise have access to. Company visits, professional exchanges, and training sessions allow Youth to discover new environments, develop practical skills, and better understand the opportunities available to them. IHF's Testimonial Interview Through its collaboration with IHF, LP4Y is building stronger connections between Youth and the professional world. Recent activities, including a company visit and financial literacy session, allowed Youth to interact directly with a partner, discover a professional environment, and gain knowledge to support their personal and professional development. For Youth from marginalized backgrounds, these experiences can have a meaningful impact. Meeting professionals and discovering new opportunities can help them build confidence, expand their networks, and see possibilities for their future that may previously have seemed out of reach. “Working with LP4Y Bangladesh has been a truly rewarding experience. Their commitment to empowering vulnerable Youth through skills development, employability, and sustainable inclusion strongly aligns with the mission of It's Humanity Foundation (IHF). I truly value LP4Y's collaborative approach, professionalism, and dedication to creating meaningful opportunities for young people. Together, we are building pathways that enable Youth to become confident, self-reliant, and active contributors to society. On behalf of IHF, we look forward to strengthening this partnership and creating even greater impact in the years ahead.” — Istiaque Ahmed, Partnership, Development & Stakeholder Engagement, It's Humanity Foundation (IHF) IHF and LP4Y Youths Partnerships are not only about organizing activities. They are about building bridges. By bringing together Youth, organizations, and companies, LP4Y and IHF are working to create a more inclusive pathway towards professional integration and greater opportunities for Youth. 💙🤝

By Thin Zar Htet | Youth, TDC Yangon Myanmar My name is Thin Zar Htet. I am 21 years old, and I live in Yangon, Myanmar. In 2020, I had to leave school because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Shortly afterward, my country experienced a major political crisis, which had a significant impact on many people's lives, including mine. I first heard about this program in November 2025 from STAR (LP4Y alumni) Ma Khaing Lat LP4Y. After learning about it, I became interested and started exploring more about LP4Y and its mission. On November 17, 2025, I officially joined the LP4Y program. Before joining LP4Y, I lacked confidence in my future and was unsure about which career path I should choose. However, after becoming part of LP4Y, my life gradually began to change. At LP4Y, I had the opportunity to develop both professional and life skills. I gained practical experience in communication, teamwork, time management, problem-solving, and customer service. In addition, community training sessions, meetings with partner companies, and mock interviews helped me build greater confidence and prepare for the professional world. Although I faced many challenges, I never gave up. With the guidance and encouragement of my coaches and teammates, I learned to see every challenge as an opportunity to grow and improve. Today, I have a clearer vision of my career goals and am working toward building a professional career in customer service. I am committed to continuously learning, improving my skills, and achieving my goals. LP4Y has given me more than just job-related skills. It has helped me build self-confidence, resilience, and the courage to face the future with determination. I will continue learning and growing, and I hope that my journey can inspire other young people to believe in themselves and pursue their dreams with confidence.

By Ei Phyo Thaw | STAR in TDC Yangon, Myanmar My name is Ei Phyo Thaw, but people also call me Ban. I am 18 years old. My family consists of my mother and father, and I currently live with them. They have always supported me in everything I do, and to me, they are the best family I could ever ask for. I only completed middle school because of the COVID-19 pandemic and the political situation in Myanmar. During that difficult period, I had to stop my education. At that time, I first heard about LP4Y from a Youth named Su Yadanar, who is now a STARS. Later, I learned more about LP4Y through another friend, and we decided to visit the center together. At first, we were both very nervous. However, when we arrived at the center, the seniors warmly welcomed us and introduced themselves. I immediately felt that this place was special. It was even better than I had imagined. At that moment, I made a decision: I would join LP4Y and work hard to achieve my goals. When I was younger, I dreamed of becoming a successful specialist doctor. Unfortunately, because of the circumstances in my country, that dream became difficult to pursue. During a time when I felt lost and uncertain about my future, I discovered LP4Y. This organization helped change my life. Through LP4Y, I learned more about myself: what I want to become, what my strengths are, and what I am passionate about. I gained valuable experiences, developed leadership skills, improved my teamwork abilities, and most importantly, learned effective time management. I had not completed six months at LP4Y or reached the Management Step, but I was able to join a company visit at Mintha Care Co., Ltd. During the visit, I learned that they were looking for interns in the Finance Department, which was an area I was interested in. I immediately submitted my CV. About a week later, I was contacted and offered the internship position. I was incredibly happy when I received the news. At the same time, I felt a little sad because it meant leaving my friends and Coaches at LP4Y. LP4Y had become my comfort zone, a place where I felt supported, motivated, and valued. Today, I am working as a Finance Intern at Mintha Care Co., Ltd., and it has been almost six months. This workplace reminds me a lot of LP4Y because everyone is kind and supportive. My seniors patiently teach me whenever I do not understand something, and they always encourage me to learn. I have gained many valuable experiences and practical skills. Since finance is a field that genuinely interests me, everything I learn feels exciting and meaningful. I now have a much better understanding of financial processes, and I enjoy my work every day. I would like to end by sharing one of my most memorable experiences at LP4Y. When I first joined LP4Y, I was assigned to the HR & Finance Team. At that time, some seniors had already found jobs, while others were on leave for personal reasons. As a result, I often had to manage many responsibilities on my own, which was quite challenging. However, seniors from other teams always took the time to explain things to me and guide me whenever I needed help. One day, while working on the cashbook, we discovered a significant discrepancy in the financial records. The numbers did not match, and a large amount of money seemed to be missing. I was extremely worried and even wondered if I would have to take responsibility for the loss. During that stressful moment, all the seniors, Coach Pannu, and I worked together to investigate and solve the issue. After carefully reviewing the records, we finally found the mistake and balanced the accounts. That experience taught me the true meaning of teamwork. It showed me how people can achieve great results when they support one another and work together toward a common goal. It was one of the happiest and most meaningful moments of my journey, and it is a memory I will never forget. I am truly grateful to LP4Y for everything it has given me. The organization has played an important role in shaping who I am today, and it will always hold a special place in my heart.

By Sana Khan | STAR in TDC Mumbai, India Sana Khan My name is Sana Khan, and I am from Azmi Nagar, Malwani, Mumbai. I studied up to the 10th standard, and like many young girls, I had dreams that felt bigger than the world around me. I always dreamed of becoming financially independent and one day starting my own business. But there was one thing that held me back: I was incredibly shy. Even speaking in front of a few people made me nervous, and I never believed I was capable of achieving something meaningful. A mother's dream begins with giving her child a better tomorrow Life took an unexpected turn after I got married. I was blessed with a beautiful daughter, but my married life did not work out as I had hoped. With no other option, I returned to my parent’s home with my little girl. Those were some of the darkest days of my life. I carried fear, uncertainty, and countless questions about the future. How would I raise my daughter? How would I support her? Would I ever be able to stand on my own feet? In those difficult moments, I realized that I could not let my circumstances define my future. I needed to become financially independent-not just for myself, but for my daughter, who looked at me with hope every single day. That was when I heard about LP4Y (Life Project 4 Youth). I didn't know then that one decision to join the program would completely change my life. Walking into LP4Y for the first time, I was still the same quiet, hesitant girl who doubted herself. Speaking in front of others felt impossible. I was afraid of making mistakes and worried about what people would think of me. My journey began in the Learning & Development department, where I learned to create presentations and speak in front of groups. At first, every presentation felt like climbing a mountain. My hands would shake, my voice would tremble, and I wanted to give up. But the coaches and Catalysts at LP4Y never gave up on me. They encouraged me every single day, reminding me that confidence is built one step at a time. Slowly, something inside me began to change. Turning the struggles into strength, and her voice into a tool for change. Presenting to community members and school children helped me discover a voice I never knew I had. Every presentation made me stronger. Every challenge made me more confident. Later, I joined the Human Resources department, where I learned communication, mobilization, attendance management, budgeting, teamwork, and other professional skills. I also improved my English, computer knowledge, interview skills, and workplace readiness through internships and company visits. These experiences did more than prepare me for employment-they prepared me for life. After completing the program, I proudly secured my first job at Talent Enterprise Organization, where I managed appointment scheduling over the phone. For someone who was once afraid to speak, this was a moment I never imagined possible. A milestone she'll always cherish—Sana's first step into the professional world Today, I work with Doctor For You as a Community Volunteer under UNICEF's Routine Immunization Program. Every day, I visit families, counsel parents who are hesitant to vaccinate their children, explain the importance of immunization, and encourage them to attend Routine Immunization (RI) camps. Every conversation I have reminds me of how far I have come. The girl who was once too shy to speak now confidently talks to families, builds trust within communities, and helps protect children's health. The communication and mobilization skills I learned at LP4Y have become an important part of my daily work. But my journey is about more than finding a job. Everything I do today is for my daughter. When I look back, I hardly recognize the person I used to be. LP4Y didn't just teach me professional skills. It helped me believe in myself when I couldn't. It gave me confidence, discipline, resilience, and the courage to face life's challenges with hope instead of fear. To every Coach and Catalyst who stood beside me, believed in me, and encouraged me even when I doubted myself: thank you from the bottom of my heart. You didn't just help me find employment; you helped me rebuild my confidence and rediscover my purpose. Today, I know that courage is not about never being afraid. It is about taking one step forward despite the fear. This smile carries the story of resilience, hope, and a future And that one step changed my life forever.

By Alvi Naura Auliannisa | STAR in TDC Surabaya, Indonesia Alvi Naura Auliannisa My name is Alvi Naura Auliannisa, just call me Alvi. I am 19 years old. Since I was a child, I have lived in a village in Lamongan. Growing up, I was known for my quick smile and my excitement for everything I did. I have always held high aspirations. Despite living a simple life, my parents always encouraged me to be independent, to be brave enough to chase my dreams, and to work hard to make them a reality. Since I was little, my dream was to work at Bank Indonesia. In vocational high school, I chose to major in Accounting, thinking it would be the path to achieving that dream. After finishing secondary education, I fought hard to secure a scholarship for university. However, that very dream eventually broke me, and I tried to erase it from my life entirely. At that point, I replaced the idea of 'university' with 'hard work.' After graduating high school, I decided I would look for any job I could find. After graduation, my father, knowing how much I truly wanted to attend university, insisted that I go. I loudly replied: "NO." Seeing my father’s aging face, I felt pity, l couldn't bear the thought of him having to finance two daughters through state universities. Confused, my father asked, "What will become of your future then?" The next day, he found information about a job training program called LP4Y located in Surabaya. He rushed to tell me and told me to go there immediately the following morning. Were there tears after that? No. Reflection? Yes. I began to redefine what life meant to me, and it all came back to my father and mother. Making them happy became my purpose. Building confidence through public speaking-one presentation at a time During that period of being 'aimless,' I felt as if I was walking through an empty, dark room without a sense of direction. But after finding LP4Y, I found a path. Through the Catalysts, I didn't just find light: l began to create it. This is where I am growing to be confident. Although it is a long process, I believe I can do it with the guidance of the Catalysts who encourage me daily and convince me to believe in myself. They are the light ahead, guiding me as I walk. In my heart, I whispered, "Yes, this is my purpose to make them happy in their old age." That light guides me through the dark room. Even if I trip, slip, or step on a nail along the way, at least now I know the direction and the destination. The passion for living and a clear life purpose are like a pair of flip-flops, if one is missing, the other becomes useless. I don't know if these words resonate with your life, but I hope there is something beneficial here for you. To me, purpose is not something to be found, but something to be created. Purpose can come from anywhere. Don't look too far for grand goals that seem out of reach. Sometimes, a life purpose is created from what is closest to us, things we often forget to notice. I chose this title because I realized that life’s purpose isn't always something grand or far-fetched, like a high-ranking position at a bank. Instead, it is something close and tangible: being devoted to my parents. I am 'creating' the meaning of my life through the love I have for my father and mother, rather than seeking it through the validation of a degree or social status. And now, after a long journey, I’ve finally found a proper job. I'm working as a sorting operator in the production department at PT Veolia Services Indonesia. I feel so grateful and happy for this opportunity. Dreams turning into reality ! Happy Alvi Naura Auliannisa on her first job at PT Veolia Services Indonesia ​I hope this new environment will be a place where I can learn, grow, and make a positive impact. The past journey wasn't easy, but today's result makes everything worth it. Ready to face new challenges with the best energy! ​I truly hope to give my best contribution to the company for the long term and grow alongside everyone at PT Veolia Services Indonesia. ​My heartfelt thanks to everyone who has supported me, especially to LP4Y and PT Veolia Services Indonesia for granting me this precious opportunity. Sharing smiles with her co-workers at PT Veolia Services Indonesia

By Akari Khaing | Youth in TDC Yangon, Myanmar Akari Khaing My name is Akari Khaing, and my religious name is Jasmine. I am 19 years old and I live in Yangon. I dropped out of school in 2020 because of the Covid 19 virus. After that, there was a problem in our country which affected the political situation. I live with my mother. I have two sisters. Now I am working at Mintha Care Trade coLtd as an Admin Intern. I first heard about this training in July 2025 from STAR Ma Shay at LP4Y. After that, I became interested and searched more about LP4Y. I joined the training on August 18th, 2025. When I first joined LP4Y, I did not have any dreams. I also did not know what I wanted to become in the next 5 or 10 years. I was not sure about my life plans. But after joining LP4Y, I slowly understood what I want for my future. My dream for the next 5 years is to become a cosmetic founder. My life is different from others because I have a person who should be called a father, but was not there for me like a real father. However, my mother is a very special person to me. She faced many difficulties in her life, but she still supported me and my sisters with our education. She gave us knowledge and always tried her best to give us a good life. My older sisters also guided and taught me like my mother. That is why I love my mother and sisters very much. My mother is my strength and she always taught me to be interested in my future goals and your dreams. From LP4Y, I learned many skills and became more confident. I improved my communication skills, problem-solving skills, management skills, data analysis skills, leadership skills, project leader skills, and teamwork skills. When I did not know what to do in my life, LP4Y helped me see my dreams and goals clearly. I am very thankful to LP4Y and the Coaches. I trust myself more now and that changed everything.

By Milima Shrestha | Youth in TDC Kathmandu, Nepal Milima's Graduation My name is Milima Shrestha, and I am 29 years old from Kathmandu, Nepal. Before joining LP4Y in January 2025, I had no clear career plan and spent most of my time at home. One day, I learned about LP4Y through my neighbor, and with my family's support, I decided to join the program. At LP4Y, I gained many professional and personal skills that helped shape my future. In the Communication and Marketing Department, I learned how to prepare certificates, write reports, create newsletters, send professional emails, take meeting minutes, and design resumes using Canva. In the Human Resources Department, I learned how to support youth management, create ID cards, and organize schedules using Excel. Through various trainings and workshops, I also improved my communication, presentation, teamwork, and computer skills. Milima at work One of the most valuable lessons I learned at LP4Y was confidence. I learned how to present in front of others, participate in interviews professionally, and communicate effectively in a work environment. LP4Y also taught me perseverance, resilience, and the importance of continuing to learn and grow. Some of my favorite memories include celebrating Holi, participating in E-Day performances, presenting my Life Project Plan, and co-hosting the Graduation Ceremony. These experiences helped me develop confidence and strengthen my teamwork and leadership abilities. Today, I am working as a Home Measurement Editor at Veritacore Nepal. The skills, professional behaviors, and work ethics I learned at LP4Y continue to support me in my daily work. LP4Y helped me believe in myself and prepared me for the professional world. Milima's Entrepreneur Graduation In the future, I dream of becoming a successful entrepreneur and opening my own stationery shop. I hope to create opportunities not only for myself but also for others. To young people considering LP4Y, I strongly encourage you to join. LP4Y provides valuable skills, professional exposure, company visits, and opportunities to discover your potential. It is a place where you can grow, learn, and prepare for your future. The thing I am most proud of is how much I have grown, both personally and professionally. LP4Y gave me the confidence, guidance, and opportunities to build a brighter future, and for that, I will always be grateful.

By Valencia Putri Bilqhis | Star in TDC Surabaya, Indonesia My name is Valencia, and I am an LP4Y alumni, or as we are called here, a STARS. I would like to share a little about my life journey and how Life Project 4 Youth completely changed the direction of my life. When I look back, my journey has not always been easy. I had to stop attending university because of my family’s financial situation, and later I decided to move to another city. There, I spent quite a long time unemployed. My family tried to build a business, but it faced many ups and downs, especially during the COVID 19 pandemic. At that time, I felt that something was missing. I wanted to work, to grow, and to move forward. However, the reality was that every job application I submitted ended in rejection. Eventually, I reached a point where I completely lost my sense of direction. I was confused, doubtful, and unsure of what step to take next. Then, my cousin Aldo, who is also an LP4Y alumnus, suggested that I join LP4Y. At first, I refused. I thought the training program was too long. But three months later, I made a decision that would ultimately change my life, and I joined. Honestly, everything I found there exceeded my expectations. I realized something very important: the reason I kept getting rejected was not because I lacked ability, but because I was not prepared, especially for job interviews. I did not know how to answer questions properly, I often felt nervous, and sometimes I answered without thinking carefully. At LP4Y, I was trained. We regularly practiced interviews, including sessions with Catalysts from different countries. Through these experiences, I learned not only how to answer questions effectively, but also how to communicate with confidence, even in English. The transformation was real. Within just three months, I gained not only valuable skills but also confidence in myself. What impressed me the most was not only the program itself, but also the people, the Catalysts and fellow Stars who constantly supported and encouraged one another to grow together. To make a long story short, I started working at Laritta Bakery, a well known bakery in Surabaya, earning the Surabaya minimum wage after only three months in LP4Y. Although I did not stay there for long due to personal reasons, I was determined not to return to square one. I continued searching for opportunities and eventually found one at Decathlon. I was accepted and immediately shared the exciting news with my Catalysts. Interestingly, at the same time, LP4Y was planning a partnership with Decathlon. It felt like a meaningful coincidence. However, my journey was not over yet. Just before joining, I was presented with a work contract that did not align with my personal principles. At the same time, another opportunity appeared at Veolia Services Indonesia. I was extremely conflicted because I knew this decision could shape my future. At that moment, I was at a critical crossroads. If I failed, I would have had to leave Java and start over from scratch in Batam. After carefully considering my options many times, I decided to apply to Veolia. The process was not easy. I made mistakes along the way, including sending an email incorrectly. But after seven long days of waiting, the news finally arrived: I was accepted by Veolia. At that moment, I knew that none of my efforts had been in vain. It was not only because I had secured a job, but because I could finally see the results of the journey I had gone through. I had transformed from someone who struggled with interviews into someone who was praised by HR professionals from a major company for communication skills and confidence. That is the change LP4Y brought into my life. LP4Y did not just provide me with skills; it changed the way I see myself and my future. Finally, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to LP4Y, the Catalysts, and all my fellow STARS who have been part of this journey.

By Amal Abdelzain | Youth in TDC Cairo, Egypt My name is Amal Abdelzain. I am 19 years old, and originally from Sudan. I have been living in Al Dokky, Cairo since March 3rd, 2023. I joined LP4Y in January and I am currently in management step. I am working in the HR and finance department. Before, I used to work in the Learning & Development department and the Partnerships department. Before LP4Y I was studying at the Faculty of Pharmacy in Sudan. I completed an internship with Terre Des Hommes, where I received training in life skills and community initiative implementation. I also contributed to the 'Dose of Hope' initiative, which provides treatment and medications for diabetes patients. In addition, I received training in food safety, hygiene, and hospitality at Ehdo Company, and worked as a Commis Chef at Novotel El Borg Cairo. Finally, I received training in computer and administrative skills. I was struggling to find a job due to my lack of practical experience, and limited professional networking. I joined LP4Y to gain more skills, improve my communication, and gain confidence in speaking English fluently without fear in order to find a decent job. Throughout the program, I learned new skills like project management, and I have developed strong skills in communication, time management, and computer skills. I have changed my mindset, it makes me more prepared for challenges, and improved my English speaking skills. During my training, I had the opportunity to complete a two-week training with EACD as project coordinator. What I liked most about LP4Y is the supportive environment that fosters learning by doing. The organization truly empowers young people by giving them the platform to gain real experience and shoulder real responsibilities, which is essential for meaningful professional development . The training in the organization has helped me change clearly. For example, I have gained a lot of confidence in myself and my abilities, and I have become more capable of handling challenges effectively such as solving unexpected problems. After, I will be going back to Sudan. I think I will remember many things about LP4Y such as the beautiful relationship I built with my colleagues, team-building activities and my favorite moment was the lunch together because it was a nice moment that brought the team together and helped us get closer outside of work.

By Dipa Chaudhary | STAR in TDC Kathmandu, Nepal After completing my studies, I found it very difficult to manage my personal expenses as I had no job or work experience. Even with my +2 degree, I lacked the skills and confidence to secure a proper job. I felt lost, pressured to support my family, and unsure about my future. At first, my family was also confused and questioned my decision to join LP4Y. But I explained the opportunity to them, and slowly they began to support me as they saw my growth. I joined LP4Y in 2019, and this journey truly changed my life. The most important things I learned were confidence, professionalism, teamwork, and time management. I also developed strong computer skills in MS Word and Excel. During my training, I had the opportunity to do a 2-week internship at Kasthamandap, where I handled billing, expense records, and design work. This experience helped me become more responsible and understand real workplace expectations. LP4Y gave me direction, confidence, and the courage to believe in myself. It helped me grow both personally and professionally. Today, I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Business Studies and I am currently working as an accountant at B Four Engineering and Construction. Before this, I worked with Express Eats and UG Cakes as an accountant, and also gained experience as a logistics officer. My goal is to grow further and become a strong and skilled accountant. Dipa in Paris at Agora, LP4Y's 15th Anniversary To young people, I would say do not hesitate to join LP4Y. It is a place where you learn, grow, and discover your potential. It helps you build confidence, communication skills, and a clear path for your future. What I am most proud of is being part of the LP4Y journey since 2019 and representing Nepal at the 15th Anniversary celebration in France (Agora). I am still connected as a Star Club member, and I truly value being part of this community. LP4Y did not just give me skills, it made me believe in myself. LP4Y STARs in Paris, Agora 15

By Theint Su Nandar Aye | Youth in TDC Yangon, Myanmar Theint Su Nandar Aye (right) with Wah Wah Htwe (left) during Graduation I officially joined LP4Y on December 15th, 2025, and that was the moment my life began to shine. My social anxiety vanished, and I transformed into someone with strong communication skills. LP4Y taught me how to be professional, from the way I dress to the way I carry myself. I have successfully developed a clear Life Project Plan and built many meaningful friendships, breaking my old habit of isolation. Through face-to-face sessions with my coaches, my goals became even clearer. I gained essential skills, including: Communication & English Skills Management & Leadership Skills Time Management Professional Soft Skills & Hard Skills My confidence grew further when I was elected as a Team Leader by my peers. A significant milestone for me was on April 21st, 2026, when I gave a solo presentation about LP4Y in front of 45 visitors from Dayamit College. Overcoming that challenge made me realize that I am capable of anything if I try. Currently, I am serving as the leader of the Communication and Marketing Team. I now know where I belong and feel fully prepared for the professional world. As I enter the Job Search phase, I am determined to find a professional role that fits my skills. I have always admired the STARs of the program, and I am working hard to become one myself. My goal is that by June 15, 2026, when I complete the LP4Y program, I will be working in a professional career that truly suits me. To my fellow LP4Y Youths, I want to say: There is nothing we cannot do. If we strive, anything is possible.