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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.

My name is Léa Maury, I am the new project manager of Youth Inclusion Network , and I am based in Sangam Vihar, New Delhi, India. The idea emerges from one of our contacts in Alliance Francaise Delhi , who keep us in touch with what happened in the city. I heard that an exhibition will be held for the International Women’s Rights Day  and will stay until 18th March. With the TDC team, we wanted to do events around feminism, equality and rights during the month. The name of the exhibition is “ Women of Urban India ” an art installation by Olympe Ramakrisna . The day before we expose to the Youths, they were so happy and thrilled to go to an exhibition, for all of them it was the first time (or almost). I repeat, the first time . Before LP4Y I was used to go to museums, art museums in particular but also historical ones. I really enjoyed learning and observing how we can transform reality by drawing, painting, sculpture or any kind of art. But for me too, it was the first time that I attended an exhibition about painting on silk saree, which is the traditional clothing of women in India. I really enjoyed the time I spent there, walking around the saree, being close to them, seeing the differences between women painting, every one of them is a person close to the artist. And one of the paintings is her painting. A painting inside a painting, a self portrait. The Youths were curious and after 15 min in the exhibition, the Artist, Olympe Ramakrisna arrived, unexpectedly, with a big smile. We are very grateful because she took the time to respond to every question, to be friendly and share her story between India and France, the creation processus, and the importance of time she creates a painting more than 100 hours. That was impressive, I am used to drawing and painting on my hobby time and that was truly inspiring for me.  Thank you to the Alliance Francaise and the artist Olympe Ramakrisna, we took her contact so we hope that even if she leaves Bangalore, maybe she could come to the TDC center one day to do art training. Nisha, a Youth: Hello everyone, My name is Nisha. I  am a youth from LP4Y and I live in Sangam Vihar which is a neighbourhood far from the center of Delhi.  On Saturday 8th march it was International Women’s rights day   and we went to an art exhibition of the artist Olympe Ramakrishna in French Alliance Delhi.  When I was 16 years old I went to a science museum, it was completely different because in that exhibition I saw handcraft silk paintings. It was an amazing day, I really enjoyed it. I most like the one silk painting of Olympe Ramakrishna, the one she is inside the painting and she is creating another painting of the exhibition. It was an incredible painting. Also, she wears an earring with the painting of Mona Lisa from Leonardo da Vinci.  We met the artist, she talked about the story of silk painting and one painting took more than 100 hours. Sometimes I tried to paint and I spent two or three hours making it and it gave me the wish to one day create a silk painting . It was inspiring . We could ask her many questions. She explains how she was inspired by her mom and took pictures with us. It was great. We had fun and enjoyment.      Thank you. Roshni, a Youth: Hello everyone,My name is Roshni, and I am a Youth member of LP4Y in Sangam Vihar, New Delhi. On March 8th, which is International Women’s Rights Day, we went to an exhibition at the French Alliance in Delhi.  I saw many beautiful silk paintings there. It was my second time visiting a painting exhibition, and since I have loved painting since childhood, I enjoyed all the artworks. I especially liked two paintings by Olympe Ramakrishna. During this exhibition I learned the importance of time . We met the artist Olympe Ramakrishna, and she told us that every piece of art took more than 100 hours to create, it was impressive.  We were able to ask many questions. She kindly agreed to spend some time with us, answered our questions politely, and even took a picture with us. It was a wonderful experience for me. Thank you. Arbaz, a Youth: Hello everyone, My name is Arbaz Khan. I am the Youth of LP4Y in Sangam Vihar, New Delhi. On Saturday 8th march it was International Women’s rights day and we went to an art exhibition in French Alliance Delhi. I saw many silk paintings. It was my first time to see that art. In those paintings I like one in which there was one branch with the bird which was connecting the painting with nature. By those paintings I learnt the importance of time because we met the artist and she told us, every piece of art took more than 100 hours to create. The idea of painting on silk saree she got by watching someone drying saree on the balcony. It was impressive . We could ask many questions related to silk paintings to Olympe Ramakrishna. She agreed to spend some time with us, shared her story between France and India, she was very kind and  took a picture with us.   It was a very great experience for me. Thank you.

On Women’s Day, the wonderful Youth of TDC Beirut delivered a heartfelt and impactful presentation , highlighting the women who have inspired them throughout their lives. The presentation featured personal stories and tributes to their mothers, grandmothers, teachers, friends, and public figures who have made a difference. It was a true celebration of the power of women, emphasizing their vital role in shaping communities, families, and societies. These presentations not only honored the women in their lives but also encouraged others to recognize and appreciate the women who inspire them every day. Through this experience, both the Youth and their coaches reflected on the importance of women empowerment and the need for role models to uplift and support one another. Here are two powerful testimonies, one from a coach and one from a young woman, who shared their thoughts on the impact of women in society. Rahaf, the Coach: Hello, my name is Rahaf Mahmoud, and I am a coach at TDC Beirut. As a coach, I was truly impressed by how hard the Youth worked to create their presentations and how excited they were. I have always believed that women are half of society , but after seeing how certain women inspire them, I now believe that we, as women, are much more than this . The resilience and creativity of the women around us help shape a better future . Thinking about the role of women in their lives helps young people appreciate respect and support them. Women, mothers, sisters, friends, teachers, and leaders, shape who we are as humans , and their impact permeates every level of society, driving profound change. When Youth recognize this, they learn to treat everyone equally and help build a fairer , stronger society . It also encourages them to stand up for women’s rights and ensure that everyone has the same chances to succeed. This experience strengthened my belief that women can have powerful and essential impact in shaping society , as leaders, caregivers, educators, and catalysts of change. Their strength, resilience, and contributions often go unrecognized, yet they are the foundation of families, communities, and progress. It also highlighted the importance of gender equality and inclusion, reminding me that when women are empowered, everyone benefits, families grow stronger, economies improve, and societies become more just. Most importantly, it inspired me to support and uplift the women in my life and beyond. It also empowers young people to take action in their communities, ensuring that everyone, regardless of gender, has opportunities to grow, lead, and succeed. When women feel empowered, like the Youth did during this presentation, it helps build a future where all individuals can thrive. Talking about these subjects supports LP4Y’s goal of inclusion and empowerment by showing how important women are in society. It helps young people appreciate their role as citizens of our world and promotes fairness, respect, and leadership. Especially in Lebanon and other Arab countries, where women are often not seen as equal to men, these presentations take on even greater importance. The Youth reflected on why women should be empowered , why role models are essential , and how they can support one another . Women must stand together and continue to fight for their rightful position in society. Sara, the Youth: Hello, my name is Sara, I am 17 years old, I am from Syria, and I am in the Responsibility step. I chose to speak about my mother for the presentation because she gives me advice and energy and is responsible for us . I always tell young people to be more careful with their mothers because my mother has always been very important to me. She is the one who makes my day, and without her, I feel like I am nothing. Through the presentations we held, I learned that women are important in society . For example, when the father dies, the mother remains with her children, creating strength for herself so that they do not fall weak or feel the loss of their father. She carries the responsibility for them, their education, and their upbringing, ensuring they gain strength from her and understand that “mother” is more than just a name. To contribute to supporting and uplifting women in the future , I might consider volunteering with organizations that promote women’s development and empowerment. I would also give awareness sessions for all women so that, if they encounter challenges, they know how to act. My goal is for women to have a voice in society, to overcome all negative opinions surrounding them, and to achieve what they want. This Women’s Day presentation was more than just an event , it was a reminder of the essential role women play in shaping the world. The voices of the Youth and their stories are proof that when women are empowered , societies grow stronger , and change becomes possible .

Geetha, a 22-year-old mother of two, joined LP4Y in search of a better future for herself and her children . Faced with financial struggle s and societal challenges , she found strength , confidence , and a passion for working with children. Through training, mentorship, and hands-on experience, she transformed from a shy housewife into the new Little Angel Academy (LAA) Catalyst at the LAA in TDC Chennai. Her journey and transformation is a testament to the power of perseverance and the impact of opportunities.

Katharina Stefania’s story is one of hard work , courage , and determination . Despite growing up in poverty, she has shown that with strong commitment , embracing challenges, and saving money, you can reach your goals. As an alumni of LP4Y Jakarta in 2020, she is now studying Mathematics at Indraprasta PGRI University in Jakarta, Indonesia and dreams of becoming a Math teacher. Her journey is truly inspiring, especially for women raised in disadvantaged areas.  Katharina’s story began in a Catholic orphanage, where she received financial support during high school. It was through this orphanage that she found LP4Y Jakarta. Coming from an Eastern Indonesia’s family, Katharina faced not only poverty but also discrimination for being different. With darker skin and curly hair, she didn’t meet the beauty standards often sounded in society, which led to feelings of insecurity and doubt about herself. However, Katharina was fortunate to have a supportive family . Even though they didn’t have much, her parents taught her strong values. Her father worked as a warehouse keeper, and her mother took care of the neighbors’ children. They never asked for help and raised Katharina to believe in hard work and maintaining dignity, no matter the circumstances. Katharina dreamed of becoming a teacher, and that dream led her to join the LP4Y training program. This is where she found her passion . She was inspired by her Coaches, like Fanette, Romain and Tiwi, who helped her build confidence and tackle challenges head-on . She forced herself to master English and administration, especially in operating the Microsoft office. During the six-month program in LP4Y Jakarta, Katharina stayed with one of the LP4Y’s partner staff from Atmabrata Foundation in Kampung Sawah, Cilincing (one of the slum areas in Jakarta). Her internship at Servier Indonesia was another important milestone. She took on a paid internship, filling in for a woman on maternity leave, and this gave her the chance to work in a professional setting in South Jakarta. This experience opened her eyes to new opportunities, far beyond what she had ever expected. Katharina didn’t stop there. She stayed involved with LP4Y’s alumni group, STAR Group, and in 2022, she became the Project Leader for LAA (Little Angel Academy) in Cilincing. This was a turning point in her life because she had to create new plans and work with international NGOs. Leading this project required her to think critically , collaborate with people from different cultures, and use her English skills.  “ What impressed me the most was earning the community's trust for the LAA project. It wasn’t easy to convince them, but I didn’t give up. I showed them how important this program was, especially for the children of young mothers. And when I finally managed to get five babies and more from young mothers into the program and saw the Kampung Sawah community supporting it, I was beyond happy” One of Katharina’s most unforgettable experiences was her first trip abroad to the Philippines for a Southeast ASEAN seminar . This international experience opened her mind to new opportunities and the power of working with people from all over the world . Through her hard work, Katharina was able to save enough money to pursue her dream of studying at University and paid the families’ debt. She also had the chance to speak at a SEA Today News broadcast with Romain from Youth Vision, where she shared her story and the stories of other Youth following their dreams. For Katharina, LP4Y wasn’t just a training program, it became a family that supported her growth, helped her believe in herself , and encouraged her to build a better future . Katharina’s story shows that women, no matter where they come from, can overcome obstacles and make their dreams a reality . As a woman from Eastern Indonesia, Katharina faced the challenges of living in Jakarta and dealing with beauty standards that tried to define her. But her message is simple: if you focus too much on your flaws , you’ll miss the opportunities in front of you . Strength comes from within, from believing in yourself, from family and loved ones who support you, and from always striving to grow. “I’m a woman who has faced both poverty and beauty standards, but I’ve proven that the greatest strength and beauty come from a strong heart that doesn’t give up,”   On this International Women’s Day, Katharina Stefania’s story is a reminder that with persistence , support , and courage , anything is possible .

Srijana’s journey is a testament to perseverance , courage , and self-discovery . Growing up in a rural village in Nepal without parental support, she faced countless challenges in pursuit of education and a better future. Moving to the capital city was a bold step, but it came with hardships financial struggles , job scams , and uncertainty . Everything changed when she discovered LP4Y. Through the program, she not only gained professional skills but also developed self-awareness and confidence . Her journey led her from being a struggling Youth to securing a design job at a major insurance company and later becoming a Coach and Catalyst for Change at LP4Y. Now, Srijana is empowering other young people to dream big and take charge of their futures.

Ghida's journey is one of breaking barriers and overcoming challenges . After struggling to find a job due to a lack of experience, she joined LP4Y to develop her skills. In just three months, she transformed her future , securing a role as a Community Life Coach and inspiring excluded Youth. As a Coach, she witnessed young people breaking barriers every day overcoming personal struggles, gaining confidence, and shaping their futures. One of her proudest moments was helping a young woman who once feared being around others grow into a capable and compassionate teacher . Her story is a testament to perseverance , growth , and the impact of believing in oneself .