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Bangladesh is a very homogeneous country, with 99% of its population identifying as ethnic Bengalis and over 90% as Muslim. However, the northern region stands out for its diversity, home to the country’s second-largest Hindu population as well as small Buddhist and Christian communities. Among these Christian communities, we find the Urao Tribe. The Green Village Bangladesh is lucky to be located in the Rangpur Division, the most diverse region of the country . In 2023, the mobilization team of the center established a strong connection with the community leaders of Lohani Para, a small village belonging to an Urao community. Many young women from Lohani Para have attended Green Village’s training programs. Despite facing the challenges of belonging to a marginalized population , many secured a job and all of them found ways to use their newly acquired skills to positively impact both themselves and their community. Since connecting with the LP4Y team, the Urao community has invited us to their annual Christmas celebrations. This year, we decided to bring you with us! Before even arriving, we are immediately struck by the isolation of Lohani Para . After reaching the nearest village by bus, we must take a rickshaw van, the only available transportation, to travel another 25 minutes through fields and forests. This journey highlights the village’s remoteness, which is especially remarkable compared to the density and proximity of other villages in the area. However, the long trip is undoubtedly worth it. Upon arrival, we feel as if we have stepped into a completely different world. A different architecture with houses made of clay instead of the bricks and tin used in the other villages, and beautifully decorated for the celebrations. Even if ingredients were the same, we could discover new ways of preparing dishes with them. By seeing the people dance and celebrate, we discovered new traditions, and even the environment feels distinct: not a single piece of waste litters the ground or the forest . Solar panels are widely used, reflecting the community leader’s strict management of their land. "Although our village is big, we manage to keep it clean and tidy. We have a community center donated by the church who offers mediation, health service and most of the social development activities. Thanks to it, all the people of the village are educated, but mostly depend on agriculture to be employed and support our families." says Nidra Ekka, a STAR (LP4Y alumni) living in Lohani Para. Visiting Lohani Para is always an intense and enriching experience for the Catalysts , both international and nationa l. "It was the first time I saw this type of village. They live like a colony of ants, supporting each other, taking care of their environment, making beautiful houses.. and it was so clean and the air was so fresh... I didn't know I could find places like this around here!” says Chadni, Community Life Coach in the Green Village Bangladesh, who grew up in the region. Yet, while the village is heartwarming and fascinating to explore, stepping back reveals the challenges it faces. Opportunities are really lacking, beyond farming or working in nearby factories, there are few options for the residents, especially for women. The local market is tiny, with limited goods, as the village is disconnected from the broader supply networks . The roads reflect this isolation; during our journey, we saw almost no vehicles or travelers. There are no official infrastructures, no schools, hospitals, or government offices, and religious discrimination , while not immediately visible, adds another layer of difficulty. Despite these challenges, some progress is noticeable. Those who have visited before note improvements, such as the presence of policemen, meaning that authorities are beginning to focus on the area’s safety. Additionally, construction projects at the village’s entrance, accompanied by signage detailing housing and education initiatives by the new government, offer a glimmer of hope . However, much work remains and the path still seems long for Lohani Para and its community…

I was born in a beautiful holy village at the foot of green hills, beautiful mountains. It has been almost 2 years since I lived in the city. Today, I am writing this, my story, myself, I am writing to find memories of my past. I am Yog Maya Sunuwar from Ramechhap district, Nepal and nowadays I'm in Kathmandu city. I am 21 years old and I'm a bachelor-pursuing student. I came to the city for my studies and I'm searching a decent job for my financial freedom and to complete my degree . I searched many places but I didn't find a job. In this time, I met many fraud companies where I also lost some of my money and time to search for a job. I was fully tired. If I found a job, they asked me to give money first. I also found some decent jobs but they asked for experience and I am fresher. One day, my friend posted on Facebook about LP4Y , that provides different types of training for the Youth who are only ladies. After seeing this, I decide to go there and understand what's happening there, what types of training they provide. There, I see many ladies and all of them speak English. And I see all are very educated and also talented. I'm third in the waiting list. I think to myself: "Oh my God! I came from a government school and I'm not good at English." But sometimes later, one lady comes and tells me that in fact, when they came there, they also didn't know about English. After learning there, they are able to speak English and understand English. After listening to their inspiring and motivational stories, I decided to join this organization. And also I see there are many foreigners working in this organization. And I think, if there are foreigners, my English will also improve. Because I need to speak in English there. So that's why I decided to join. Also, the young woman said that there are many foreign Catalysts who help us to develop ourselves. That there are two Coaches who teach them about professionalism, English, and other topics. So, I am very inspired and quickly I join this. The second day, finally, I join this organization and on this day, I see all the Youth are very helpful and they all teach us about their organization. There I did not only take training. This platform is for every woman who wants to become independent in their life . There are lots of women like me who want to become independent. There, I also worked  at different types of departments because there is a company that provides computer training for community people. So, here I needed to work during 6 months of my training in different types of departments like HR, Communication and Marketing, Ecosystem, and Learning and Development. So, firstly, I started in the Communication and Marketing department. I see the Coaches (Albrina Singh and Shreya Baral) are very friendly and helpful because they help me a lot. They tell us: "if you have any questions, curiosity, if you have any problem, please share with us." And also during my training, if I got a problem and confusion, I went to them for help and they helped me anytime. During my training time, there are many events are happened, many foreigners are come there, and I also attend many events as a host, and I am also working in team, as a team leader. That time, we did many tasks and projects.   I developed myself a lot in this organization. I developed my education, my mindset, my personality . And during this training time, mainly, I found myself . So thank you so much Life Project 4 Youth training program. I am always thankful for you. And also, I got a chance to visit our national and international tourist places, like Bouddha, Patan temples, Pashupatinath Mandir, with many foreigners and I got the chance to interact with so many different countries people. I loved to work with different personalities and persons! So I can also develop my English speaking skills, and I developed my computer skills in speed, management, decision making, and problem solving . I developed a lot in this organization. There I am able to think about my short term and long term goals. Before that, I thought that I will first complete my studies and thought about that only but after this, I made plans about how to reach my short term goal to long term goal . The Catalysts and Coaches always inspired us to follow our own dream. They are my heroes, I want to become independent and helpful like them. Finally, I completed my 6-month professional training at the organization. That was my special memory for me. After finishing this training, I also found a decent job . So I'm very excited for my new job but I'm sad to  leave the organization. Because during training we are all like family there. But I talk myself that, "Hey, be happy with changes in what's happening in your life because everything gives you lessons. You need to accept that and move forward. Success is waiting for you. Let's move!" Lastly, I want to say thank you so much Life Project 4 Youth for your all support and help. Without your support and help, I am not able to become what I am today. Today, I am clear about my goal, vision, and also my interesting field. So, thank you so much Coaches, Catalysts, all the Youth and  Life Project 4 Youth for giving me the opportunity to live this wonderful journey and developing myself! Thank you so much.

My name is Rahaf Mahmoud , I’m 22 years old, and I come from Syria . Since 2013, I have been living in Bourj Hamoud, Lebanon, where I have faced challenges , embraced opportunities , and grown through every experience . Before LP4Y, I was a very shy person . Most of the time I stayed at home, because I didn’t have the chance to continue my education. I felt like opportunities were far away from me , and I didn’t know how to move forward. In 2021, something unexpected happened. My mom was searching for a new house to live in, and during this time she discovered that our old house in Bourj Hamoud had been transformed into a new TDC Beirut ( Training and Development Center ) of LP4Y. She spoke with one of the coaches there, and soon after, I decided to join the program. Because I was doing nothing and I know a bit English so I didn't want to forget and the most important thing for me was the computer as I never worked on it . In the beginning, I was very shy , stressed , and nervous . I had never used a computer before, so everything felt completely new and overwhelming . My very first challenge at LP4Y was to take the lead in our Micro-Company presentation (Connect4Change). Standing in front of people , speaking out loud , and organizing the work felt so difficult for me at first . But thanks to the encouragement and accompanying of my coaches, I started to push myself little by little . Each step helped me gain more courage and confidence . Through this experience, I discovered qualities I never thought I had, leadership , organization , and the ability to learn fast . That moment was the beginning of a real transformation , where I realized that I was capable of much more than I had believed. Graduating from LP4Y was a great achievement, but my journey didn’t end there. After graduation, I became a Star , and during the very first election I was eager to take part. I wanted to challenge myself and see how far I could go. To my surprise, my peers placed their trust in me and chose me as President . I still remember how proud and grateful I felt in that moment , it wasn’t just about the title, it was about the confidence others had in me. As President, I had the opportunity to organize many activities with the Stars, such as team-building sessions, yoga days, and group meetings where we came together to support the coaches whenever they needed . Each responsibility pushed me to grow, step by step, in confidence and leadership. I realized that true leadership is not about leading from the front, but about accompanying others , listening , and helping everyone move forward together. After that, a new opportunity opened for me: to volunteer with LP4Y as HR & Finance . I first heard about it from a Catalyst in the Finance team, and even though this role was something completely new and unfamiliar, I decided to take the challenge . I wasn’t alone in applying, other Stars were also interested, so I went through an interview process. I even had a test to check my Excel skills and my ability to understand finance processes. At the beginning it felt difficult, but little by little I started to learn and grow. This experience became a turning point for me. I began to develop new knowledge and skills in finance , while also discovering how to manage responsibilities, stay organized, and work in a professional environment. It wasn’t just about numbers; it was also about teamwork, communication, and building confidence in myself. Over time, I felt proud to see how much I had improved. I stayed in this position for 6 months, and it helped me grow not only professionally but also personally. Then, I made the decision to travel to Syria for one year to continue my education , carrying with me all the valuable lessons, experiences, and confidence I had gained from this beautiful journey with LP4Y. When I returned to Lebanon, I stayed in touch with the Finance team at LP4Y. They connected me with the Coun try Coordinator, and soon after I was given another opportunity, this time as a Coach . Stepping into this role was truly transformative. For the first time, I wasn’t the one being guided and supported ; I was the one standing beside others , accompanying , encouraging them and walking with them on their journey. As a Coach, I had the privilege of working closely with the Youth , listening to their stories , witnessing their struggles , and celebrating their success . Every step they took forward reminded me of my own journey with LP4Y, and it made me realize how much I had grown since the day I first entered the program. Their courage and determination inspired me every day, and in helping them discover their potential, I found myself becoming stronger , more confident , and more committed to making a difference. Looking back today, I can say that LP4Y had a huge impact  on my life. It helped me overcome shyness, gain confidence, build skills, and take important decisions for my future. Most of all, it gave me the belief that I can achieve my dreams. My dream for the future is that all Youth set goals for themselves and never stop dreaming. Everything can become true if you keep working on yourself and refuse to give up. Remember: we are the change of the future, because we are the future.

My name is Rosalinda Lalaguna, I’m 23 years old and I live in Sto. Tomas, Calauan, Laguna. Before joining LP4Y, every day of my life felt the same. I stayed at home, helping my mother take care of my youngest sibling and also looking after my own children. I didn’t have a job, no income, and no clear plan for my future. I wanted to work, but I didn’t have the skills or the confidence to start . When I learned about LP4Y, I saw it as a chance for new beginnings, a chance to change my life . At first, my parents were unsure. They worried about me being far from home and thought it might be a waste of time. I explained that it was a professional training program that could help me build a real career. I promised to call or chat with them regularly, and little by little, they agreed to let me join. Since joining, so much has changed in my life . I’ve learned computer skills , communication skills , and how to work as part of a team . I’ve also learned to wake up early, manage my time, and stay organized. Most importantly, I’ve grown more confident . Now I can speak in front of a group without feeling afraid. My Life Project Plan is to become a professional cook and open a small eatery in my hometown. I dream of hiring other young people like me so they can also have opportunities. LP4Y helped me map out the steps I need to take, from getting my first kitchen job to saving enough to open my own place. During my internship at a local restaurant, I learned how to handle customers, manage a busy kitchen, and work under pressure. My manager even told me that I had leadership potential , which gave me more confidence in my plan. In our Green Village the day usually starts with a warm welcome, where everyone gathers to share updates, greet one another, and set intentions for the day. In the morning, we have skill-building workshops, coaching sessions, or hands-on projects that empower us to grow. The atmosphere is full of encouragement , where every small progress is celebrated . Afternoons bring more teamwork, preparing events, working on group projects, or activities that spark creativity. Breaks are filled with laughter and friendly conversations, making the center feel like a second home. By the end of the day, we leave not only with new knowledge and skills but also with stronger friendships and a renewed sense of purpose. Of course, daily challenges are real . Some Youths travel for hours because transportation isn’t reliable. Others, like me, need to keep explaining to our families why attending every day is important. I tell my parents about the skills I learn and the progress I make so they understand that this isn’t just school , it’s preparation for real life . LP4Y gave me more than just skills. It gave me direction, hope, and the belief that I can achieve my dreams.

Hello, My name is Nyi Nyi Naing. I am 21 years old . I am proud to be one of the STAR of LP4Y (Life Project 4 Youth). I joined the program on January 2025, 21 and I completed it last July.  My goal is to become an artist . Like A Model, Makeup artist, Designer and Dancer. These things are not easy for me because I was born in a simple, ordinary family-just a poor boy trying to make his way. Also, I am gay. Since childhood, I was always mocked, bullied, and treated with discrimination . I also never had self-confidence . Only when I came to LP4Y and met Coach Pan, who cared for me and gave me support , was I finally able to accept myself and become a stronger person .  Since I was young, I have been treated differently. Even my parents did not accept this part of me . That's why I was raised by my grandparents . My parents are very traditional and strict in their beliefs. They never accepted the idea of being gay at all. Since I was little, I was raised mostly by my grandmother, and I only sew my father maybe once a year. Every time I did, he would always beat me. Because of that, I grew up living in my grandparents' home. My grandmother has always been my supporter , the only person who has protected me all along. Later on, I studied things related to my parents’ interests and ended up working in their line of work to support them . I feel sad . Even though I’m lucky, even though I get everything I want, I’m still not happy. Maybe it’s because I have to hide this huge secret, that I’m gay. I always feel weak , scared , and I’ve never truly been happy or free . I even thought about ending my life, but I couldn’t do it, because I’m afraid of dying. I’m afraid of being a shame to my parents, afraid of failing, afraid of what people might think of me. In the end, the only way to be free is to love myself and accept my existence . Even if nobody else loves me, I must love myself. Because if I can’t love myself, how could anyone else ever love me? I was never truly happy . Because there's no one to support me . I'm wondering if my dreams are slowly fading away . After that, not only did I have to go through the COVID-19 pandemic, but also the military coup. I became completely depressed. On top of that, I lost my grandmother to COVID-19. My life fell into a bleak and hopeless state and eventually, I became someone who no longer wanted to live . At that time, one of my outlets was drawing portraits . My grandmother once told me that I was really good at it. Whenever I draw, I feel a sense of calm and peace . I especially enjoy drawing the unique features of different people’s faces. When I was young, I was often judged by my appearance. I was teased with words like “gay”, “dark-skinned”, and “big-headed”. Because of that, I grew to really appreciate drawing the beauty in differences and uniqueness .    In 2025. I started a new path of my life. That path is through a program called LP4Y (Life Project 4 Youth). I first learned about this program from a friend. At the beginning, I didn't fully understand it, but now, thanks to the program, I’ve been able to live a better life . I have accepted who I am and have gained meaningful opportunities for work .  Besides that, in my free time, I have had the chance to study and work on my dreams . Now, I’m very grateful to the coaches who guide me to organize my life and make the most of my time. The past year. I’ve joined many auditions but l didn't pass any of them. I'm too feminine for guys and too masculine for girls but I believe the weaknesses they see in me are actually what make me unique compared to others . I see them as my greatest strengths

My name is Puja Chaudhary, and I am from Saptari, Nepal. A few years ago, I was just a young girl with big dreams but no clear path to achieve them. My ambition was bold: I wanted to become a Government Veterinary Technician . After finishing my Animal Science course, I was waiting anxiously for my results, already picturing myself in Kathmandu, preparing for the Loksewa exams. But dreams often collide with reality. Living in Kathmandu turned out to be far more expensive than I had imagined, and my family was already struggling . My mother, the only one earning, was working tirelessly to keep our household running. I felt the weight of our financial situation every day, and I knew I couldn’t ask her for more support. I tried looking for a part-time job to cover my expenses while studying, but I didn’t even know where to start. I felt completely lost , like I was standing at the edge of a road with no sign pointing the way forward . That’s when I found LP4Y. The day I walked into LP4Y, I had no idea how much it would change my life. It wasn’t just a training center; it felt like a safe space, a place where I could breathe, learn, and dream again. It became the turning point in my journey from dreams to determination I joined the 3-month Soft Skills Program , and from the very first day, I felt supported in ways I had never experienced before. LP4Y gave me so much more than lessons: they offered me encouragement, guidance, and the space to grow . I learned computer skills, public speaking, CV writing, and interview preparation. But the most valuable lesson LP4Y gave me was something deeper: the belief that I could achieve my dreams . For the first time in a long while, I felt that my future was possible. During the last month of training, I saw a job vacancy for a dog grooming position at Pet Mama . My heart pounded as I prepared for the interview. I remember the nervous excitement of that morning , so many questions racing through my head, but also the determination in my heart. This time, I wasn’t unprepared. I had the skills , the confidence , and the mindset LP4Y had helped me build . And I got the job . That moment changed everything. It wasn’t just about financial independence, though now I can pay for my Loksewa classes and cover my living expenses in Kathmandu. It was also about proving to myself that I was capable of shaping my own future . My long-term dream of becoming a Veterinary Technician is still ahead, but now I am moving toward it with confidence and hope . Life is still a journey, and there are challenges every day. But thanks to LP4Y, I am no longer stuck. I am moving forward , with purpose , independence , and belief in myself. To me, LP4Y is more than an organization; it is a family . They believed in me when I doubted myself. They gave me the courage to take that first step, the step that changes everything. To anyone who feels lost, I want to say this: never give up. Your dreams are possible. The road may not always be clear, but taking that first step can change your whole life. Thank you. – Puja Chaudhary, Batch 30, Green Village Nepal

My name is Fatima O. Malaca, and I am 20 years old. Life has never been easy for me. My parents separated when I was young, and from then on, my grandmother became my only constant companion at home. I have two brothers, but they already have their own lives and work far away to support themselves. Growing up, I carried a dream close to my heart: to work on a ship. I imagined myself traveling across the seas , discovering new places , and, most importantly, helping my family live a better life . But reality reminded me that my family could not afford the high cost of college. Still, I tried to keep my hope alive. After graduating from Senior High School, a haunting question followed me every day: What will happen to me now?  Fear grew stronger with each passing week. I worried that I might never achieve my dreams and would remain stuck in uncertainty. I fought back by working hard . I searched for every possible way to earn an income, selling second-hand clothes online, tutoring a neighbor’s child for ₱200 a week, and even joining dance contests, hoping to win ₱1,000. But no matter how much I tried, the money was never enough. The exhaustion was heavy , but my dreams kept pushing me forward . Then came a bold decision: I enrolled in college to take up Education. At first, I kept it a secret from my family. When I passed the entrance exam, I told them, and they supported me emotionally but not financially . We simply couldn’t afford it. Eventually, I had to let go of that dream for the moment. Watching my classmates continue their studies while I stayed behind filled me with envy and sadness . But life has a way of opening doors when you least expect it. One day, I saw Venice, a familiar face, walking confidently in her uniform. Without thinking, I asked if she was working. She smiled and told me she was training at LP4Y (Life Project 4 Youth), a program that supports young people build skills, confidence, and a better future. Her story lit a spark in me. For the first time in a long while, hope returned . On May 6, 2025, I walked into LP4Y for the first time. I was overwhelmed . I didn’t understand the activities, the schedules, or even the purpose behind some of the tasks. Part of me wanted to give up. Honestly, in the early weeks, I only came for the weekly allowance. But deep down, I knew there had to be more to this program. The turning point came during Life Project Plan day, when we each shared our life plans. That moment made me ask myself: Why am I here? What am I really working toward?   The Green Village Leader, Sherlyn Caasi, shared words that stayed with me: When you feel like giving up, remember why you started Sherlyn’s story, of hardship turned into triumph, reminded me that no matter how difficult the road, the journey is worth it. From that day on, I promised myself to give my all at LP4Y . Since then, I’ve seen changes in myself I never imagined possible . The lost and uncertain girl is now someone who knows how to act professionally . The shy girl who feared speaking in public now speaks with confidence. The one who didn’t know how to use a computer can now create, edit, and use technology as a tool for progress . I no longer run from challenges , I face them head-on . LP4Y has taught me discipline, teamwork, leadership, and resilience. It has given me not only skills for work, but lessons for life . Most importantly, it has given me a second family, people who believe in me, encourage me, and remind me that I am capable of more than I think. Yes, challenges will always come . But I now believe there will always be more solutions than problems, more ways forward than reasons to give up. My journey is far from over, but I walk with courage, purpose, and faith. I am no longer just a girl with dreams. I am a young woman building them into reality.

Hello everyone, My name is Liliane Zahraman, I’m 21 years old, I’m from Akkar, North of Lebanon. I’m so happy to have this chance to share my story. Before I joined the training, I was always thinking about the step that would help me change my life, the one that would push me to become a new version of myself. With the support I found and through my own determination, effort, and commitment, I finally took that step. All my life, I was a shy person. Even when I talked with other girls, I didn’t feel comfortable. I was staying in my comfort zone, that's all I ever did. But then, something unexpected happened, I heard about LP4Y from my cousin and I decided to join.  At first, I didn’t know what to expect. But once I joined, everything began to change. I found support, purpose and people who believed in me and in every girl, no matter her background. I started learning new skills, how to speak confidently, how to work in a team, how to lead, and how to believe in myself. I had studied English all my life, but it was only at LP4Y that I realized for the first time that I could actually speak English clearly and confidently. During my time, I grew so much not just professionally but also personally. I became more independent, more confident and more focused on my future. After completing the program, I started searching for jobs immediately.When I went into the first job interview one sentence was repeated in my head “ They need you now “ and I went into the office. I did my interview with all the confidence I have in English. The surprise was that I took the job for the first time ever doing a real interview. It was not easy but LP4Y is giving us the tools to succeed and taught us to believe that no matter what, we always have a chance. Now I’m a different person, I’m no longer hiding in my comfort zone, I’m growing, I’m working, I’m studying and I’m dreaming bigger than ever before. Thank you LP4Y. Thanks for believing in us and for giving us the chance to build a better future.

My name is Sarita Thapa, and I am 22 years old. I come from Dhulikhel-12, Kavre, Nepal. Before joining LP4Y, I felt the need for transformation through skills and confidence to pursue a meaningful career. I was teaching in a private school while continuing my intermediate education . Although I was engaged in both work and study, I felt the need to develop additional skills for personal and professional growth. I had a strong desire to become independent and pursue a meaningful career, which led me to join LP4Y. I became part of the Green Village Nepal (GVN) in Godawari, where I joined the restaurant micro-company as a Communication Officer. Eventually, I took on the responsibility of leading the restaurant team as a Team Leader. During my time at LP4Y, I gained valuable skills in leadership, communication, teamwork, budgeting, time management, and much more. I vividly remember the day I cried after being selected for the restaurant team, I had no prior experience in customer service or budgeting, but within three months, I learned so much. At times, I also felt homesickness and hopelessness during the training and it made me want to give up and return home. However, the supportive environment , encouraging coaches, and inspirational friends kept me going. The same girl who once lacked confidence is now someone who found a job through online job platforms, succeeded in interviews, and is happily working in her dream field. The transformation I experienced through LP4Y was truly remarkable . I became more confident, self-aware, and professionally capable. I now feel ready to face future challenges and proud of how far I've come. As a coach replacement, I worked at a TDC (Training and Development Center) for a month. This role sharpened my public speaking and mentoring skills , as I guided young girls like myself in choosing their career paths, managing their budgets, and understanding professionalism. I am grateful to LP4Y for providing me with such a meaningful opportunity to give back. From entering GV full of doubts and inexperience to becoming a coach guiding fresh minds toward their action plans, it was an incredibly fulfilling journey . Working with those young women reminded me of my own training days. Seeing them grow, make decisions, and get hired-just as I did-was one of the most satisfying experiences I've had. Today, my professional journey in the social work sector continues. I currently work as a Mobilizer at ROYM Nepal in one of the rural municipalities of Dhading, a position I have held since March 19, 2024. The professionalism and confidence I gained at LP4Y have helped me succeed in interviews and thrive in my job . I've always had potential , but LP4Y helped me realize and believe in it , and for that, I am sincerely thankful . To any young person who is struggling or just beginning their journey with LP4Y, I want to say: This is a wonderful opportunity to discover yourself, build essential skills, and open the door to a meaningful, skill-based career. For me, LP4Y has been like a ladder-it gave me the support and tools I needed to climb toward the future I once only dreamed of. When I hear the words 'We are the future. I feel hopeful and confident , because we are prepared to face any challenge that comes our way. Sarita Thapa - Youth from GV Godawari, Nepal

My name is Linn Htet Maung Maung, and I am proud to be one of the STAR of LP4Y (Life Project 4 Youth). After the military coup in Myanmar over four years ago, my life was filled with uncertainty . I was an under-high school graduate, and in my country, most companies don't accept candidates without a diploma. I felt lost , unsure of what to do or how to move forward. All I wanted was a decent job, but I didn’t know where to begin.      Living in Myanmar today is not easy. The country is still facing a lot of political problems . Many young people, like me, lost access to education and job opportunities . Internet restrictions, inflation, and daily fear make life more difficult. It's hard to plan for the future in a place where things change so quickly. Many families have been separated, many people live in fear, and the dreams of Youth are often delayed. One day, my brother told me about LP4Y. At first, I didn’t understand what the program was about. But I made a decision: Even if I didn’t know everything, I would try – because I had nothing to lose. After two months in the program, I realized that LP4Y was exactly what I needed. It gave me the coaching , the mindset , and the practical skills for a working environment. I learned how to understand myself better , how to prepare for work, and most importantly, how to believe in my future . Even after graduating, I faced challenges. I didn’t get a job right away. But I remembered what my coaches told me: " "Be patient. The right opportunity takes time." I went through many interviews , failed several times , but I never gave up . Finally, two months after finishing LP4Y, I was offered a position at CMA CGM as an Administrative Officer. Many of the skills I use now, I learned at LP4Y  from communication to time management, from teamwork to professionalism. Today, I’m thankful. I’m still learning , still growing , and always looking for new opportunities to build my future . I didn’t just receive skills, it also gave me confidence , direction , and hope .

My name is Smita Rai, and I’m from Ilam (eastern part) of Nepal, however now I am living in Kathmandu. I come from a middle-class family, and my parents have worked incredibly hard to raise me and my brother. They came from a small village in Nepal, where opportunities were limited , but they decided to move to Kathmandu to give us a better life and education . They knew that education was the key to breaking the cycle of struggle , so they made countless sacrifices to ensure that we could attend a private school from nursery all the way through to now. Watching my parents give everything they had for our future left a deep impression on me. They didn’t just provide us with an education, they gave us the foundation for a better life , even if it meant going through hardships themselves. One of the most selfless sacrifices my mother made was going abroad to earn money for our family. I still remember the day she left. It was one of the hardest moments for all of us. My mother, who had always been there for us, had to leave us behind so she could work in a foreign country, far away from her children and her family. She did this not just to provide us with an education, but to ensure we could survive during some of the toughest times of our lives. Every time I think about the pain in her eyes when she left, I am reminded of how much love and sacrifice she has shown us. But our struggles didn’t stop there. When I was in class 8, my father became seriously ill. The man who had always been the pillar of our family suddenly became so weak that we had to watch him suffer. It was a helpless feeling , knowing that all the dreams my parents had worked so hard for, the dream of owning a home where we could be safe and happy, began to slip away. We had been saving for years to buy land and build our family’s dream house , but all our savings were used up for my father’s treatment. It was a heartbreaking decision, and I could see the pain in my father’s eyes as he struggled to accept the reality of our situation. It was not his fault, but it felt like our dreams were shattering before us . In the midst of all this, my mother made the difficult decision to go abroad. She had to leave us behind once again, but this time, it wasn’t just about education, it was about survival. It was about keeping our family together, making sure my father received the treatment he needed, and giving us a fighting chance. My mother’s strength, courage, and determination to provide for us in the face of such adversity are what continue to drive me to this day. Growing up, I faced my own struggles, especially when it came to my confidence . I was a shy, introverted child, and the bullying I faced at school only made things worse. When I was in class 5, I was chosen to lead a speech program at school. I was terrified. The fear of speaking in front of others was paralyzing, and when my moment came, I froze. I couldn’t speak a word. The teasing from my classmates made me feel even more worthless , like I was not good enough to do anything that required courage or confidence . It was painful to feel so small, so invisible, but it was in these moments of weakness that I decided I had to change. That’s when my best friend, Sostika, came into my life. She was always there to support me, through thick and thin. One day, she told me about Life Project 4 Youth (LP4Y). She had seen the transformation LP4Y had brought in the lives of others , and she believed it could help me too. She encouraged me to join, and looking back, it was the best decision I ever made . Joining LP4Y was a turning point for me. It wasn’t just about gaining new skills, it was about finding my voice. For the first time, I was surrounded by people who believed in me , who saw potential where I saw failure. LP4Y gave me the courage to face my fears and step into the light . LP4Y didn’t just help me gain new skills, it gave me the courage to be myself, to speak up, and to believe in my own worth, through their support, I gained the courage to face my fears. Joining LP4Y has been a transformative experience that significantly shaped my personal and professional growth . I worked in various departments, each offering valuable lessons and challenges: In the Human Resources & Finance  department, I gained skills in budgeting, managing the cash book and box, and participating in monthly finance closings (SAGA). I also managed the money forecast and allocated tasks within the team, enhancing my organizational, financial, leadership, and teamwork abilities. In Learning and Development , I created content for basic computer training and facilitated sessions for both LP4Y colleagues and the local community. I also helped build partnerships with clubs and community members and tracked program effectiveness by updating the Key Impact Indicator (KII) . During this time, I led a department team, coordinating tasks and responsibilities. This experience improved my leadership and communication skills, teaching me the importance of clear communication and active listening. LP4Y provided professional exposure through company visits, mock interviews , and testimonies from industry experts. These experiences built my confidence and helped me refine my interview skills, directly contributing to securing my current job. The mock interviews and networking opportunities during the program played a crucial role in preparing me for professional roles in finance and administration. One major challenge I faced was during the mobilization for computer training  sessions. Despite some initial rejection from community members, I learned the importance of perseverance and adaptability. Balancing responsibilities across finance, training, and leadership roles pushed me beyond my comfort zone, helping me think critically, manage multiple tasks, and work under pressure, skills I continue to apply today. One of the most powerful moments of my journey was when I was asked to be the Master of Ceremony for LP4Y’s Graduation Day. Standing in front of so many people, leading the event, was something I had never imagined I could do. But with each word I spoke, I felt the shy, bullied child inside me begin to fade away. I was no longer afraid. Later, I had the incredible opportunity to MC for LP4Y’s biggest event, Entrepreneur’s Day. It was a huge milestone for me, and as I stood there in front of everyone, I realized just how much I had grown . From being the quiet, self-conscious kid who couldn’t speak in public, I had transformed into someone capable of leading these major events with confidence . Today, I am proud of who I have become. I no longer let my past or the bullying I endured define me. Thanks to LP4Y, I have gained the confidence to lead, to speak, and to believe in my own abilities. But my journey isn’t just about me, it’s about giving back to my family , especially to my mother, who sacrificed so much for us. I am currently a bachelor’s student, working hard to continue my education and build a better future. I already have a decent job , but my true drea m is to give my parents the life they deserve . I want to give them the dream house they’ve always wanted, a house filled with warmth, love, and memories. I will work tirelessly, and with every step I take, I will remember the sacrifices they made for me. My first priority will be to bring my mother back from abroad, so that we can all be together again. I will not rest until I can make them proud and repay them for everything they’ve done for me . I want my mother to know that her sacrifices will never be forgotten , and I want my father to see the dream they both had come to life . The journey is far from over, but I now walk it with confidence , as a resilient youth in Nepal, shaped by my family’s sacrifices and the strength I’ve discovered through every challenge . My future is bright , not just because of what I can achieve, but because of the love and sacrifices that have shaped me into the person I am toda y. Smita Rai - Youth from TDC Kathmandu, Nepal

From April 21–27, 2025, LP4Y Indonesia proudly took part in the “ La Nuit & Matinée des Idées ,” a global event organized by Institut Français Indonesia . This international initiative brought together hundreds of French cultural institutions and changemakers to explore how innovation , commitment , and bold ideas can address the world’s pressing challenges , climate , technology , and democracy . One of the highlights of our participation was the screening of I Am Future – Youth Vision  during La Nuit des Idées . The event featured Dian , the protagonist of the film, accompanied by two inspiring youth representatives, Sherly and Becky . The post-screening discussion was led by Shannen , who guided the exchange with energy and authenticity, inviting the audience to dive deeper into the motivations of LP4Y Youth and the journey of transformation they experience. The conversation that followed was rich and engaging . Guests asked thoughtful questions about the movie’s message and the future envisioned by the Youth. The presence and support of the Jesuit brothers , who support LP4Y by training Youth in English and Excel, along with corporate partners , made the evening even more meaningful. One powerful message stood out from the discussion: “Wherever you come from is not a reason to stop growing, learning, or even failing. Failure does not define the outcome. It simply means trying another way.” This simple truth is at the heart of youth empowerment , the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to rise, grow, and contribute, regardless of their background. On Sunday, LP4Y joined La Matinée des Idées – Pouvoir Agir (Empowering Action). We opened a booth alongside 15 other changemakers, including NGOs, citizen-led initiatives, and grassroots organizations. With the amazing help of STAR, Una, and Tirah , we introduced visitors of all ages to the LP4Y mission and promoted the Youth Inclusion Forum  to a broader audience. This event was a powerful reminder of how youth empowerment   thrives through collaboration, visibility, and belief in change, step by step, conversation by conversation. We’re grateful to have been part of this journey and look forward to taking part again next year!