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Hello, my name is Mubeena, and I’m part of LP4Y. I’ve had the chance to work with FM Logistic as a partner, and I’m really excited to share insights into how this partnership is making a difference in the lives of young women like me. Today, I’ll be speaking with a representative from FM Logistic to learn more about how our collaboration works and the impact it’s having. Q: Can you briefly introduce yourself and tell us a little about your background before joining LP4Y? FM Logistic’s mission has always been to promote logistics and support underprivileged youth , especially young women . Our FM Foundation shares a vision of providing education and skill development to those in need, and we’re proud to partner with LP4Y in this effort. Q: How did FM Logistic first get involved with LP4Y? What motivated your company to support a program like this? FM Logistic partnership with LP4Y began with a shared goal, to support and empower young women by providing them with skills and education for a future in the logistics industry. The FM Foundation was particularly driven by the desire to offer these opportunities to underprivileged youths. Q: What exactly does FM Logistic do with LP4Y? How do you work with young people like me? FM Logistic provides a range of skill development programs, internships, and hands-on learning opportunities for LP4Y participants. We help young women understand the logistics industry, explore job market opportunities, and develop skills that will make them employable in this field. Q: How do you think this partnership is helping young people gain the skills they need for their future jobs? We arrange company visits , provide detailed information about logistics operations, and offer internships where young women can gain real-world experience. Additionally, we provide essential skills training like CV writing and mock interviews , all of which are vital in preparing them for their careers. Q: From your experience, what is one of the most important things that LP4Y participants like me can learn from FM Logistic? One of the most valuable lessons LP4Y participants can take away is the real-world experience gained during our one-week internship program . It provides a practical understanding of logistics operations and a chance to develop key professional skills. Q: How has working with LP4Y benefited FM Logistic? Have you seen any positive changes or outcomes? Working with LP4Y has been a rewarding experience for us. We’ve been able to see firsthand the educational needs and training requirements of young women. We’ve also observed a significant level of enthusiasm and engagement from the participants, which is always encouraging. Q: In your opinion, what makes a successful partnership between a company and an organization like LP4Y? A successful partnership is built on a clear vision of how to address the educational and professional development needs of young people. It’s about mutual understanding and collaboration , and the goal should always be to help underprivileged youth achieve their full potential. Q: What would you say to other companies who are considering working with LP4Y or similar organizations? Why should they get involved? I highly recommend other companies to collaborate with LP4Y. It’s an opportunity to help young people build their futures, and through this partnership, companies can make a real difference in society. It’s rewarding to see the impact of such efforts. Q: Finally, what do you think the future holds for our partnership? How do you see it growing, and how can it continue to help young people like me? The future of our partnership with LP4Y is very promising. Over the past two years, the programs have been highly effective, and we’re excited to see more young women benefiting from them. We’re committed to expanding and improving these initiatives to ensure even more young people have access to these valuable opportunities. Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts with me today! It’s really inspiring to see how FM Logistic is helping young people build their futures. I hope that more companies will follow your example, and that we can continue to grow together , creating more opportunities for young people everywhere.

It's hard to believe how far I've come since LP4Y (Life Project for Youth) first entered my life. I still remember the day they came knocking on my door when I was pregnant. They introduced themselves and shared their mission. I politely declined, thinking I didn't have the time. I was overwhelmed with my own struggles and didn’t feel like I could handle anything else. Months passed, and LP4Y returned to my house. They reintroduced themselves, sharing their vision and goals. This time, I said yes. I would join their program after giving birth, and I felt a spark of hope . Maybe this was the opportunity I needed to turn my life around. But life had other plans. I became a broken-hearted mother who lost her son. The pain was overwhelming, and I didn't feel like leaving my house or facing anyone. I was consumed by my grief and didn’t know how to escape. It was during this dark time that Danica from LP4Y Green Village came to visit. She was kind, compassionate, and understanding. She shared her own story, and I felt a connection . I finally decided to take the risk and join LP4Y. But, unfortunately, I was diagnosed with dengue and couldn’t attend. I felt like I had hit rock bottom. I was struggling to come to terms with my loss , and I felt like I was failing myself and disappointing my family . But then, something changed. My brother's cousin introduced me to Lowela, who was also a Youth of LP4Y. This time, I said yes, and I finally found myself at Green Village, a place that felt like paradise. As I walked through the gates of Green Village, I felt a sense of peace wash over me. The surroundings were beautiful, and the people were kind and welcoming.  When I was a child, I noticed that one of my neighbors was sick, so I went there and just looked at the girl, saying something that could help her. The next day, her mother said she wasn’t sick anymore, and from that moment, I dreamed of becoming a doctor or doing something in the medical field to help others . I felt like I had finally found a place where I belonged , but my journey as a Youth wasn’t easy. There were ups and downs , twists and turns . Sometimes we were a complete team, finishing the tasks we needed to do and learning together. But other times, I felt unmotivated when we weren’t complete, due to various struggles. But through it all, I found a sense of purpose and meaning . I discovered that I was capable of more than I ever thought possible . I spent countless days, months, and moments with my fellow Youth, laughing, loving, fighting, and struggling together. We adapted to conflicts because, as Youth, sometimes we didn’t understand each other due to our different attitudes. We had disagreements, but we handled the conflicts by opening up to each other and, with the help and advice of our Catalyst, we overcame the challenges and formed an unbreakable bond – my GV family. LP4Y and Green Village became my safe haven , my happy place . It was where I found my tribe, my support system, and my sense of belonging. It was where I discovered my strengths, my passions, and my purpose. As I look back on my journey, I am filled with gratitude and love . I am grateful for the people who believed in me, who supported me, and who pushed me to be the best version of myself. I am grateful for the experiences that shaped me , the challenges that strengthened me , and the triumphs that empowered me , making me believe in myself. One of the most memorable parts was when I decided to have an internship to understand my dream job better. I pushed myself to go to a clinic to gain more experience. I went out every day, asking clinics and public hospitals if they were accepting clinic assistants for a two-week internship, but I found none! It was my last day of searching, and I asked myself, Is it worth pushing myself, or should I just take a different position for an internship? I was super sad and felt like I was losing hope, but I still pushed myself. One of the clinics, Audico Hearing Center, accepted me as an intern for two weeks! During my internship, I was in charge of checking blood pressure and testing the hearing of babies, making sure everything was done properly. While I was there, I showed my eagerness to learn and understand the position . I showed up every day, and because of my dedication, the clinic asked me if I would like to work there as a Clinic Secretary for six months! I was so happy and overwhelmed because this was my dream, and it was finally happening. I am grateful for LP4Y and Green Village, especially to my coaches Coach Kath, Coach Val, and Sherlyn, and to my fellow Youth, who will always be a part of me. They taught me that no matter what life throws my way, I have the strength and courage to overcome it. They reminded me that I am capable of achieving greatness , that I am worthy of love and happiness, and that I am enough. Thank you, LP4Y and Green Village, for being my guiding light, my safe haven, and my happy place. I will always cherish the memories, the lessons, and the love that we shared. I am Avril Dianne Delos Santos, a Clinic Secretary at Audico Hearing Center. This is the start of my dreams and the future I meant to be ! This isn’t just my success story. It’s a youth empowerment journey  that proves dreams are possible when given a chance and the right support.

For many from lower-middle-class backgrounds in Indonesia, the idea of staying in a three-star hotel is almost unimaginable. Hotels are often seen as symbols of luxury places, people pass by while wondering, What does it feel like to sleep in a soft bed and spend more than 20 euros for just one night, while most people earn only 5 to 8 euros a day for eight hours of work? This perception also extends to those who work in hotels. Many assume that only graduates from prestigious hospitality schools can land jobs in such places, making it an unattainable career for most. However, the story of Vanni and Wulan is different. They have been working at Citi M Hotel  for years after completing their PTE program at TDC Jakarta . Both come from slum areas, Vanni grew up in a high-risk zone in North Jakarta, infamous for crime and drug trafficking. Who would have thought that talent could emerge from such vulnerable environments? I had the privilege of being their coach, witnessing first hand their transformation into career-driven women after overcoming immense struggles. I still remember the tears they shed during our Face to Face sessions, talking about the sacrifices they had to make, the burden of caring for their younger siblings, and the pain of losing a father while still in the LP4Y program. One had to step up as the sole provider for the family, while the other’s mother had to flee an abusive household . As a coach, I had to maintain a professional perspective while guiding them. My role was not to solve their problems but to help them develop the mindset and skills to overcome challenges on their own. Vanni and Wulan were diligent yet fragile, carrying heavy family burdens that most people could hardly bear. But the question remained, should we focus on their hardships and sadness, or on what can be done to overcome them? Building Bridges for Inclusion through Hospitality Career Through coaching, I learned the importance of creating bridges between marginalized Youth and the professional world . Partnerships became a challenge that pushed me out of my comfort zone but also led to meaningful impact. That’s how I met Kenneth Tan , the owner of Citi M Hotel. During my first visit to his hotel in 2022, I advocated for internship and job opportunities for Youth. The hotel had already been a partner since 2019 through a previous volunteer, but I worked to relaunch and strengthen the collaboration. Kenneth, a businessman living in Singapore and Indonesia, strongly believes in building a committed and hardworking workforce. He welcomed the opportunity to give underprivileged Youth a chance to prove themselves in the real world. Years have passed since Vanni and Wulan started working at Citi M Hotel. After three months of probation, they successfully secured their positions . Kenneth, at first, had doubts about their ability to adapt, but he was amazed by their resilience and determination. When I visited them recently, I had the chance to interview them about their journey. Coming from an abusive family background wasn’t easy, they admitted. In the beginning, we struggled a lot. We were scared, insecure, and found it difficult to communicate with guests, especially foreigners. There were many times we cried because the pressure felt overwhelming. But nothing comes easy; over time, what once felt forced became second nature. Vanni shared: he coaching sessions, gallon project, and mobilization training really helped prepare me for the professional world. Hospitality is exhausting because it involves multiple roles, from assisting in the kitchen to helping guests find places to visit in Jakarta. But when I look back, the training at LP4Y gave me the stamina and confidence to speak with foreigners. I’m grateful for the experience, and I hope more Youth will get the same opportunities. During my visit, I saw how confident and professional they had become, polite, quick on their feet, and much more talkative than before. What touched me the most was their unbreakable commitment to their dreams. They had not only secured stable jobs but were also saving money, funding their younger siblings’ education, supporting their mothers by opening small businesses, and even renovating their family homes. They proudly showed me the jewelry they had purchased, symbols of financial independence . For the first time in my life, I’m earning my own money, Coach. I can buy gold, help my family, one of them shared. Their journey reminded me of the challenges of mobilization in the past. We must travel by public transport or angkot , searching for vulnerable young women in high-risk areas, trying to convince them that change is possible. God is always good.  No matter where you come from, no matter how poor or broken your family may be, if you have the will to change and the courage to seek new opportunities, the right path will always reveal itself. This experience reaffirmed my belief that we can break the cycle of poverty . All it takes is trust in people’s potential and the willingness to provide them with the space to grow.

In March 2025, a powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 7.7 struck Myanmar. This disaster sparked urgent Myanmar earthquake relief efforts across the country . This earthquake caused more than 4000 deaths, damage to homes and buildings, left many families without shelter, and added more hardship to communities already facing many challenges. Fortunately, the LP4Y center in Yangon is safe but we knew we couldn’t stay silent. We wanted to show support and help in any way we could . However, organizing a public fundraising event with the current situation in Myanmar wasn’t possible without permission from the local authorities. The paperwork takes time,  time we didn’t have. We wanted to act quickly, before the long holidays of Thingyan  began. So, we kept it simple . We prepared a few donation boxes  and reached out only to trusted friends and coworkers   inside the French Institute compound where we work asking for small contributions, whatever people could give. It wasn’t a large event, and we didn’t collect a huge amount. But every single kyat was given with love and the wish to support those suffering far away. This small action reminded us of something important: Helping others doesn’t always need to be big to be meaningful . In a time when many people feel powerless, small acts of kindness and solidarity still matter. We sent the donations through a trusted source Singgara Foundation , making sure the money reached the areas affected by the earthquakes. It may not have changed everything, but it was something, and it was done with honesty, care, and hope. In Myanmar today, people continue to face difficult situations, natural disasters, limited resources, and ongoing civil wars. But stories like this show that hope is still alive . That even during hard times, communities can come together , even in small ways, to show love and support for one another. At LP4Y, this is what we believe in: empowering youth, building strong communities, and taking action, even small ones, when it matters the most . We are proud of our team, and we’re grateful to everyone who contributed. This is the kind of spirit that keeps us moving forward, one small step at a time.

Project Uddeshya, LP4Y Nepal’s pioneering partner, shares the experiences of four effortless years . LP4Y Nepal and Project years of partnership are all about coming together and combating Nepal’s exclusion. This partnership is the magic bullet for promoting YOUTH INCLUSION. Project Uddeshya is a young initiative born during the hard times of the COVID-19 outbreak when people were distressed inside their homes.  Project Uddeshya started as an online platform to talk about mental health . We organized online counseling sessions targeting students in a small village in rural Chitwan, and slowly marched toward senseting issues relating to mental health with hundreds of students who were preparing for admissions for highschool and universities. We envisioned an idea of designing art workshops which would promote emotional and mental wellbeing  among communities. Finally, as the lockdown loosened, art-integrated mental and physical well-being was implemented, this would be the stepping stone between a long-term partnership between Project Uddeshya and LP4Y. It was through casual connection that LP4Y and Project Uddeshya got to know each other, and in October 2021, Project Uddeshya formally reached out to LP4Y to expand its work portfolio.  We explained our work and organized trial workshop s wearing masks as COVID-19 was still not over. Every session we organized, LP4Y and Project Uddeshya have come closer.  We have been fortunate to conduct numerous workshops on various topics, including music, theater, art, photography, jewelry making, incense making, legal counseling, nutrition consultation, health checkups, dignified menstruation, films, and mental counseling services that have helped youths as well as our team to a new level.  These workshops have been supported by several other youth volunteers who are passionate about giving back to the community. LP4Y has provided us with a platform to expand our volunteer initiative, build networks, and grow our work. It’s also supported to identify and collaborate with many volunteer youths to give back to our community while expanding their network. We have partnered with multiple national and international organizations and recently our wellbeing workshops which we designed for youths in LP4Y have been awarded by UNESCO as well as the British Council . It's been almost 3 years now and we are still working together with LP4Y, and it brings us immense pleasure to witness the impactful work  LP4Y is doing. Their openness to connect and collaborate with other youths like us within the community means a lot! — Suraj Silwal, Founder of Project Uddeshya

Hi I'm Beth Terado, 22 years old, from Dayap Calauan Laguna. I want to share a little about my life as a young mother. It’s not easy, especially when you don’t have the means to fully support your child. But I face motherhood with courage , always giving my best to provide for my child. With God's mercy, I do everything I can for him. No matter how tired I am, just a hug and a kiss from my child make all the exhaustion disappear. The most difficult thing I have faced in life is where I will get my daughter's milk and diaper every day , how is she when I am not by her side every time I do extra work. My dream for my daughter and I before I joined LP4Y was to work at Brothers Company , a company providing sales, customer support, and services throughout the country. Working there allows me to provide for my daughter's needs while also saving for my education. Joining the Program I heard about LP4Y from one of my friends. He encouraged me to join so I could gain professional experience and it would help my daughter a lot . What pushed me to join the program was my dream because I wanted to change my life and give my daughter a good life . It's hard because I don't know what to prioritize my dream or my daughter . Sometimes I thought of stopping the program because I don't want to be away from my daughter but I kept it in my mind that what I'm doing is also for my daughter too. I felt happy during the training and I found myself again. I had good teammates and Coaches and also the Catalysts to do the company visit. What I want to gain from LP4Y is to learn and have good experience for my future job and learn more about the English language.  Rising Above: Journey and Growth What I am proud of is what I learned from LP4Y: communicating with people, being confident, learning English, using a computer and its features, and being able to go to different companies.  It can be said that I have been able to help grow the program by encouraging young people who have potential and are ready to gain professional experience .  By organizing each of our assigned tasks. What I experienced within the program was the first time I became a manager because I knew I could do it, but when I found out that I would be creating my own content for those I would teach, I was weak but because of my team I was with in training, I became stronger , I gained courage and I was able to perform my task well . I realized that I have become stronger and more resourceful since I joined the program. I have gained the ability to support my daughte r, and I have even more dreams for my daughter and me. The Catalysts and my teammates helped me by guiding and teaching me everything I didn't know yet. Besides teaching, we became a family within the program. We felt guidance and support for each other. Empowerment and Motherhood Being part of LP4Y has helped me grow both personally and professionally . While my schedule has changed, I am working towards a better future for my child . Though I may not always be there in the mornings or at bedtime, I cherish the moments we spend together and make them even more meaningful . I have learned to rise above the challenges, balancing motherhood and my dreams with determination and perseverance To instill values of respect and empathy in my child, I would emphasize the importance of speaking up against bullying and gender-based unfairness , even when it's uncomfortable. We would discuss the impact of gender-based violence and the significance of consent, while also engaging with diverse narratives through books and movies that highlight various female experiences. Active listening and validating the feelings of marginalized groups would be crucial. In terms of allyship and advocacy, I would teach that supporting women's rights benefits everyone and contributes to a fairer society . We would engage in community events promoting gender equality, volunteer at women's shelters, and discuss actionable ways to make a difference. Additionally, we would explore historical and contemporary feminist movements to understand their significance and impact on society. LP4Y changed my dreams , my dreams have become higher since I joined the program and while I was in the program I was able to afford my child's milk and diapers.  As a young mother, women's empowerment holds a deeply personal and powerful meaning for me. It's not just about achieving equality on paper; it's about creating a world where my daughter , and all girls, can thrive and reach their full potential . I hope that young mothers are empowered to pursue both education and careers , allowing them to balance motherhood with personal aspirations . With access to affordable childcare, flexible work arrangements, and supportive workplaces, they can achieve economic independence , which will be a fundamental aspect of their empowerment . Reflection and Community Impact Yes, my fellow young mother and I discussed the LP4Y program, what LP4Y is and how it helps our Youth.  For other young mothers, my advice is to prioritize self-care and personal aspirations while embracing the journey of motherhood. Seek out support networks, whether through friends, family, or community groups, to share experiences and challenges. Advocate for your needs and the needs of your children, and don't hesitate to pursue your goals, education and career opportunities are within reach. Remember, your voice matters in the fight for women's rights; stay informed, engaged, and empowered to make a difference. Celebrate your strength and resilience, especially during Women's Rights Month, recognizing that you are part of a larger movement for equality and justice. Women's Rights Month represents a time to honor the progress made in the fight for gender equality while recognizing the ongoing challenges that women face. It serves as a reminder of the importance of advocating for women's rights, amplifying voices that have been marginalized, and celebrating the achievements of women throughout history. For me, it is an opportunity to reflect on the strides we have made, to educate others about the issues still at hand, and to inspire collective action toward a more equitable future for all women. If I could share one message with all young mothers, it would be to embrace your strength and believe in your potential . Remember that it’s okay to prioritize your dreams and b alongside motherhood. Seek support, advocate for your needs, and know that you are not alone in this journey. Your voice matters, and you have the power to create positive change for yourself and future generations. Cherish your unique experiences and use them as a source of empowerment. I would describe my LP4Y journey in one word related to empowerment as " transformation ." This word encapsulates the profound personal growth and change I have experienced throughout the program. It signifies the shift from uncertainty to confidence , from feeling limited to recognizing my potential, and from isolation to building a supportive community. My journey has empowered me to embrace new opportunities and advocate for myself and others, fostering a sense of strength and resilience that will last a lifetime .

LP4Y Transformation: From Aspirations to Achievement, My Story of Growth My name is Afida Khatoon, and I am a young and determined individual who embarked on a life-changing journey with Life Project 4 Youth (LP4Y) to turn my dreams into reality. With a vision of becoming a manager at Sodexo , I found in LP4Y the motivation, support, and guidance I needed to set my life on a path of success. A Dream Worth Pursuing From the beginning, my aspiration was clear: to work as a manager at Sodexo, a company I have admired deeply. Motivated by this goal, I joined LP4Y, where I discovered a nurturing environment that empowered me to learn new skills, visit external companies, and refine my career objectives. LP4Y supports me completely and gives me the motivation to fulfill my dreams. The program teaches us not just professional skills but also life skills that prepare us for the future. My LP4Y Journey My journey at LP4Y was transformative . Each day began with determination waking up early, planning my tasks, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Through workshops, teamwork, and skill-building exercises, I continually pushed myself to grow. Key to my progress was focusing on personal development, including: Reading books and meeting new people. Addressing my weaknesses and working to overcome them. Staying committed to my dream. Taking responsibility for my actions. I also overcame challenges , such as mastering soft skills like self-motivation, problem-solving, and perseverance. These traits became the foundation of my success. A Breakthrough Moment One of the most defining moments of my journey was my visit to Sodexo . Having anticipated this opportunity for months, I approached the interview with confidence and determination. I was very happy and proud of myself when I gave my best during the interview and got selected. It was a dream come true The offer from Sodexo marked the beginning of a new chapter in my life. Life at Sodexo: Turning My Dreams into Reality My first day at work was both exciting and enlightening . I learned to organize events, adapt to a professional environment, and contribute to my team. Earning my first salary brought a sense of pride and independence , allowing me to support myself and my parents . My ability to balance work and studies, a skill I honed at LP4Y, ensured that I could excel in both areas. Pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree, I aligned my academic and professional goals to further my career aspirations. Recognition and Growth My manager at Sodexo recognized my motivation and commitment during the interview and was impressed by my enthusiasm. My contributions to the team were noteworthy, and my efforts have paved the way for new responsibilities and potential promotions within the company. A Message of Hope and Inspiration My journey is a testament to the impact of LP4Y’s partnership with companies like Sodexo. By providing young adults with the opportunity to learn, grow, and achieve their dreams, initiatives like LP4Y not only transform individual lives but also bring immense value to organizations . To other youth, I share this message: Believe in your dreams and work hard to achieve them. Take responsibility, stay motivated, and never give up. To companies, my story emphasizes the importance of supporting programs like LP4Y , offering practical advice to engage with these initiatives and unlock the potential of talented young individuals. My story is one of perseverance, growth, and triumph . Through my journey, I have not only achieved my dreams but have also inspired others to pursue theirs.

Mishti, a 20-year-old student and mobile banking customer service officer, shares her transformative journey with LP4Y. Coming from a wealthy family that faced financial struggles due to her father’s illness, Mishti joined the program inspired by her older sister. Through LP4Y’s training, she learned essential life skills such as teamwork, time management, and job search techniques. Today, Mishti earns a steady income, supports her family, and is empowered to fulfill her dreams. Her story is one of growth, determination, and the empowerment of education.

My name is Priya Dharashini, I’m 20 years old, and I’m the mother of a 1-year-old boy, Sai. We live in a world where things haven’t always been easy. A few years ago, I met my husband, and full of hope, I got married and moved in with him. But after that, everything changed. My family stopped reaching out to me , and I was left alone . My husband, instead of supporting me, didn’t take care of me or my son . He didn’t even give us money to eat. That’s when I realized I had to take action. I joined the LP4Y program because I knew it would help me find a job after six months and, most importantly, enable me to take care of myself and my son . At the start, I had no experience in English, I had never used a computer, and speaking in front of others terrified me. But I had no choice, I had to keep going . So, I gave my best effort, day by day. Over the months, I learned English . Little by little, I gained confidence . I became comfortable speaking with my coaches, and now I can even translate for other Youth who struggle with the language. I learned how to use a computer, speak in public, and better organize my ideas. All these skills not only helped me progress in the program but also gave me the confidence I needed to know that I can find a job. One of the reasons I was able to focus fully on the program was the Little Angel Academy (LAA) . Sai loves going there, and it allows me to thrive and give my best . This is also one of the main reasons I joined LP4Y , because I knew he would be well taken care of while I invested in my training. Today, after six months of hard work, I’ve found a job at KFC, and even though my program is finished, Sai continues to go to LAA, and I’m so happy to know he’s in a safe and nurturing environment . But that’s not all. My short-term goal is to earn enough money to take care of my son independently and to have our own apartment. I dream of having a place just for us, where Sai and I can be safe, and where I can give him everything he needs without relying on anyone else. LP4Y has allowed me to discover strengths I never knew I had. I’ve learned that it’s possible to start over, no matter the obstacles. Today, I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished and the person I’ve become. But I’m not stopping here. Thanks to this program. Anything is possible with determination, empowerment , and the right support. I never thought I could work, but today, I have a job and a future for my son and I. I want to share my story to show other young women, especially mothers like me, that it’s never too late to start over and chase your dreams . Anything is possible with determination and the right support.

Life Project 4 Youth and Foster & Partners Unite for Women’s Empowerment On March 27th,  in the heart of London, an inspiring gathering took place to celebrate International Women’s Day , bringing together young women leaders, professionals, and changemakers.  Foster & Company  in collaboration with LP4Y organized an event designed to amplify the voices of young women, share their journeys, and inspire collective action toward inclusion and empowerment. An Evening of Inspiration and Impact: Giving a Voice to Young Women Leaders The event featured a speech by the President of LP4Y UK, introducing the organization’s mission and impact, followed by a panel discussion with women leaders in architecture and construction , They shared valuable insights on women’s empowerment in the professional world , highlighting the challenges and opportunities for women in the industry. The event also provided a unique platform to share testimonies of young women who had overcome extreme poverty and challenging life circumstances to build their future. An LP4Y alumni volunteer, referred to as Catalyst , shared her firsthand experiences of working with young women in Asia and the Middle East, recounting how access to guidance , training , and professional opportunities has transformed their lives . From being excluded , they have now built solid professional paths , allowing them to regain autonomy , and a decent life . Not only these young women have gained employment but have also discovered their potential as leaders and change agents within their communities . The event brought together professionals, advocates, and changemakers, fostering connections and discussions on how to further support young women in their professional journeys. More Than Just a Celebration – A Call for Action Beyond being a moment of inspiration and reflection, the evening also featured  a  silent auction  aimed to raise funds  to support LP4Y’s mission and extend opportunities to even more young women. The event served as a testament to the power of partnerships between corporate actors and social organizations in driving real impact. When businesses and nonprofits join forces, they create lasting change and open doors to a world where no young woman is left behind. Thank you to everyone who celebrated International Women’s Day  and joined a movement of Inspiration and Impact , empowering young women, transforming lives, and creating opportunities for a better tomorrow!

My name is Nurima Khatun. My story is one of resilience. I grew up in Roumari, Kurigram, a place where the river kept eating our land, just like hopelessness kept eating my dreams. Poverty forced me to leave school early . Like many girls here, I was married young , but found no happiness. When my marriage ended, people whispered: " She's worthless " My bad leg made walking painful, and their words made living even harder. Then came my turning point: LP4Y . I remember my first day clearly. No pitying looks . No judgment . Just warm smiles saying, " Welcome, Nurima " For the first time, someone believed I could be more. Learning was scary at first. Computers confused me. Professional words sounded foreign. But the coaches patiently guided me. " One step at a time " And step by step, I grew, from a shy village girl to someone who could manage teams , write professional emails, and speak with confidence . When UPAY offered me a job, I cried. Me? Nurima? Working in an office? But here I am today, earning my own salary , supporting my family , standing tall. The most beautiful change? I've started dreaming again. That education I lost? I'll complete it. Those who doubted me? They see me differently now. "To every young person feeling trapped don't give up. I was where you are. Look at me now. With the right help and your own determination, miracles can happen" LP4Y didn't just change my life. It helped me find the power that was inside me all along. - Nurima Khatun A LP4Y Graduate from GV Bangladesh

Empowering Young Leaders at the BRAC Bank PLC TARA Uddokta Mela - Women Entrepreneurs Fair 2025! On March 17th, we had the incredible opportunity to visit the BRAC Bank PLC TARA Uddokta Mela 2025  (Women Entrepreneurs Fair) with the Youth from the Training and Development Center - Dhaka . The fair was a vibrant space filled with over 80 inspiring women entrepreneurs , each showcasing their unique businesses, from fashion and handmade crafts to food and beauty products. Their journeys, filled with resilience and determination, were truly empowering! For many of the Youth, this was their first experience witnessing an entire fair dedicated to women entrepreneurs . The energy, creativity, and business acumen of these women left a lasting impression. As a Catalyst at LP4Y , my role is not just about recruitment and talent acquisition but also about supporting young people in gaining professional exposure . This visit was one of those opportunities where they could see, learn, and believe in the power of entrepreneurship and financial independence . A Youth’s Perspective: Learning from Women Entrepreneurs Walking through the stalls, Munni , a determined young woman from the Bhashantek slum in Dhaka , whispered in excitement. This is amazing! I never imagined a fair where all the businesses were run by women!"   Her eyes sparkled with curiosity as she explored the vibrant displays—handmade arts, clothes, pottery, and intricate crafts, all created by local artisans . Munni, who is currently in the Management Step at LP4Y, TDC Dhaka , marveled at the entrepreneurial spirit of these women. Many of them were managing both their households and businesses seamlessly , proving that resilience and ambition know no boundaries. One of the most striking moments for her was noticing products traditionally sold by men now being sold by women . It challenged her perception of gender roles in business. She paused for a moment and said: If they can do it, why can’t I?"   This realization ignited a spark in her, entrepreneurship is not about gender; it is about passion, resilience, and the courage to take action . Beyond financial independence, Munni understood something even greater— the power of decision-making . This experience broadened her perspective on what it truly means to be independent. It wasn’t just about earning money; it was about having control over her own choices and future . Reflecting on the experience, she shared: Before joining LP4Y, I had no exposure to such events. Every day here is a learning experience. Visiting fairs like this helps build my confidence and shows me that opportunities are out there, we just need to reach for them.” For Munni, this was not just a visit to a fair, it was a glimpse into a future where women lead, inspire, and break barriers , a future she now dares to dream of. A Story of Success: Ananna’s Journey Among the many inspiring entrepreneurs, we met Ananna , a woman whose journey embodied the very essence of self-reliance. With a warm smile, she shared her story: Participating in the Tara Uddokta Mela 2025 with ‘Kunjori’ was my first time, and it was a fantastic event. I absolutely love what I do. This business started as a hobby but has now become my main profession and passion. Ananna spoke with unwavering confidence , emphasizing the importance of women embracing financial independence. She firmly believed that regardless of age, marital status, or life circumstances, every woman should strive to be self-reliant . The confidence that comes from being self-sufficient is unparalleled. Whether through employment or starting a business, every woman has the potential to create her own destiny. Her words resonated deeply with the Youth, who saw in her a role model, a living example of what determination and passion can achieve . My Reflection as a Catalyst - Tanha As I stood there, watching the Youth engage, question, and absorb the stories of these incredible women, I felt an immense sense of pride and purpose . My role at LP4Y as a Project Leader in Talent Acquisition  is about more than just recruitment, it is about empowering young minds, exposing them to new opportunities, and guiding them toward self-discovery . For many of them, this was not just a visit to a fair. It was a turning point , a moment that challenged their beliefs, inspired their dreams, and showed them that the world has more opportunities than they ever imagined . They realized that success is not limited by gender or background; it is shaped by ambition, perseverance, and the courage to take the first step . I am grateful to have been a part of this journey, to have facilitated this experience, and to have seen the impact it had on the Youth. Seeing their eyes light up with new possibilities, hearing their excitement about the future, and knowing that they now believe in their own potential, that is the true reward of being a Catalyst. This was more than just a fair; it was a lesson in resilience, empowerment, and the boundless potential that lies within each of us . This story is not just about women entrepreneurs or young learners , it is about breaking barriers, redefining norms, and believing that dreams, no matter how big, are always within reach.