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I am Hamida Akter Jeba , a proud Star of LP4Y, where I gained the foundation and confidence to pursue my aspirations. I now serve as a  Teacher at the Australian International School  in Dhaka, Bangladesh, dedicating myself to fostering young minds and creating an inspiring learning environment. Beyond the classroom, I am a dedicated Long-Distance Athlete  and Marathon   Runner . The discipline and endurance required for long-distance running mirror my approach to life, driving me to push past perceived limits. I channel this energy into my commitment as a Youth Mentor, where I aim to guide , motivate , and empower  the next   generation , proving that dedication and hard work can overcome any challenge. I want to start by saying how truly grateful I am to LP4Y. It’s a place where I not only learned, but also grew as a human being . The way LP4Y supports underprivileged young women in Bangladesh—with skill training, discipline, and confidence-building is very rare. Very few organizations take such bold steps and create such a real impact. With the belief “ Together We Can ,” LP4Y set up the first international NGO-based Training and Development Center (TDC) and Green Village (GV) centers in rural Bangladesh. These spaces became a home and a learning platform for young women to work, live, lead, and dream. Honestly, many people cannot even imagine such a setup in our society. Yet today, I see girls who once had no direction now working, taking responsibilities, starting small businesses, getting jobs, and standing on their own feet. I will forever be thankful to all the coaches and partners of LP4Y who stood by us through moments that once felt impossible. How My LP4Y Journey Started After completing my BBA and MBA, COVID-19 hit. The world shut down, and I felt stuck . In that confusing time, I came across LP4Y—their TDC centers, the coaches, and the young women learning there. I kept wondering: ‘Who are they? How are they motivating these girls? What is their mission?’ Slowly, that curiosity turned into the desire to join. And finally, I did. From the first day, I was  supported and encouraged by Coaches like Gasper, Toscane, Peter, Neome, and others. I found amazing fellow Youths with whom I shared everything—learning, struggles, achievements, celebrations. After completing the program, I joined the LP4Y Star Club , where Youths, Stars, and Coaches stay connected to support each other. I truly value volunteerism and social work, so whenever LP4Y needs me, I am always ready to support—happily and wholeheartedly.  How It All Began It was during my third year in the MIS department at the University of Dhaka . I was walking past Curzon Hall when I saw a huge crowd at the gymnasium field. People were running, shouting names, cheering loudly. I asked someone what was happening. It was a 5 km run—25 laps around the field. I was shocked. How do people run that long? How do they not collapse? I was told that girls only compete in short-distance events, usually 400 meters or less. When I showed interest in long-distance running, I heard comments like:  “You can’t run that far.” “Girls don’t do marathons.” “You’ll faint.” Those words stuck with me. And I decided to try anyway. I started joining races outside campus. That small curiosity soon grew into a passion then a dream, and finally, a part of who I am today. Today I am proud to be the  2nd Overall in the Kathmandu Marathon  2025 (42.195 km), and 1st among SAARC countries , competing with runners from around 130 countries. Where My Marathon Journey Really Started My first 5 km was in 2018 at a university event organized by Ironman Arafat and that event changed everything. My second 5 km got me 2nd place. Soon, I completed my first 10 km in Narsingdi. Then I discovered hills. I fell in love with them. Some of my memorable  achievements: Champion – 21 km Bandrathon (Bandarban) Champion – Shamshernagar Marathon, 2019 – 45 km Makrovat Trail Ultra, Meghalaya 2019 – 50 km Ultra, Gazipur  2021 – Champion, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Dhaka Marathon (Prize: 5 lakh taka) 2022 – 5th, Ladakh Marathon, India* 2025 – 2nd Overall, Kathmandu Marathon Dhaka half marathon 2020 2nd, This journey is only the beginning. Many more podiums are waiting. Family Acceptance & Struggles Coming from a conservative family, I kept my sports life hidden at first. I didn’t bring medals home—I kept them in my hall room. But my achievements started appearing on TV  and in newspapers. Relatives told my parents. Whenever my father was watching the news, my heart would race. Sometimes, when he left, I quietly turned off the TV. Slowly, slowly, they came to know. And after almost two years, they accepted it. Today, my family supports me fully. My Purpose Ahead My goal is to support the physical and mental well-being of underprivileged girls and women, helping them build confidence and courage. I want to bring more honor to my country and inspire more girls to stay active, healthy, and strong and mentally fit. Today, I proudly work at the Australian International School, Dhaka, and continue my journey as a marathon runner representing Bangladesh. My dream is to take my efforts—and my victories —even further for a better world.

Isa Nebres, department manager, testimony: What is your background at decathlon (how long have you been leader/whether you have taken on other missions or roles before…)? I began my journey with Decathlon as a working student, starting part-time while preparing for college. What was initially meant to be a two-month job for me evolved into a seven-year journey of growth and now 3 years in leadership. I was 19 when I was first entrusted to become one of the Layout Referents for Decathlon Alabang store. I’ve worked 4 years as a part-time working student, then as soon as I graduated, I applied full time as an Omni Sports Leader, 2 months into that role, I was offered to become part of Decathlon Fairview’s Leading Team as Team Sport Leader then later joined Decathlon Santa Rosa as Department Manager. In 2024, I was also entrusted to work alongside our Country Sport Leader as the Commercial Dynamism Referent for our Department’s ecosystem. What is the main thing you’d like Lowla and Reynan to remember their experience in your team and from the knowledge you are sharing with them ?  I want them to remember how Decathlon - people are always the heart of every project. No matter their background or experience, they carry potential waiting to be cultivated. Everybody can make difference, no mater where they start. Everyone begins somewhere, and there is always a « first time » for everything. What matters most is having the courage to believe in themselves  and to see a vision of where they want to go. Dare to make mistakes and learn. Being as you truly are: growth becomes not only possible but inevitable. I want Lowell and Reynan to remember that leadership begins with trust, trust in themselves, in others, and in the vision they carry forward. From 2, 5, 10 or even 20 years from today. I hope they leave knowing that their growth matters as much as the results they bring. If they ever become the leader they wish to become someday, (as they’ve written when I asked them « how do you want to be remembered? » or « visions of themselves ») I hope they pay forward the same trust and really invest in the people they’ll be entrusted to journey with. What did they teach you in return? They did remind me that when I was 18, like both of them, I was young, inexperienced, a working student, but given a chance. My leaders at Decathlon believed in me before I fully believed in myself. They entrusted me with opportunities that taught me vision, resilience, and the importance of people-centered leadership. That experience shaped the way I lead today. I believe people are always at the heart of every project. Skills can be learned, but trust and belief ignite real growth. This is what I wanted Lowela and Reynan to experience in our time together-that feeling of being seen, believed in, and guided with care. In return, they taught me to slow down, to value the process of growth, and to put others forward just as I was once lifted by someone else's belief. Their strengths-resilience, humility, teachability, are the same qualities that once helped me grow. It is inspiring to see these values carried forward by the next generation of leaders. In fact, when Lowela and Reynan onboarded. | journeyed with my two teammates' development by letting them lead with me for the journey of Lowela and Reynan. Statement shared by Reeve Noriega: Both of them have shown heart and determination during the months I’ve worked with them. The main thing I want them to remember is to always give your all, your potential is limitless, get out of your comfort zone, explore things, ask questions and always remember don’t lose the attitude of being a student of the game. They reminded me how important perseverance is. Despite having a hard time at the start, they never stopped learning what they needed to know even when things got challenging. With that lesson I’ve learned from them, I will not back down even if the progress is slow, try and try until you succeed.  Statement shared by Karen Arguelles: In the past three months with Lowela and Reynan, I’ve learned to be more patient with myself and intentional as a leader. Guiding them on the foundations, like layout and customer service, not only made our work lighter but also helped us create more and share best practices as a collective. For me, it was like being an ate, a bigger sister, making sure they stayed focused while also growing myself as a mentor together with our Department Manager, Denise and Reeve. This experience shower me that mentorship is both a responsibility and a gift, and together we exceed our commitments, with the ambition we carried in our hearts.  According to you, what are the strengths of Lowela and Reynan / the Youth that have been followed the LP4Y program?  Their biggest strengths are resilience, humility, and a willingness to learn. They are people-oriented and collaborative , with a natural ability to adapt to challenges. Like many Youth from the LP4Y program, they show a determination to grow, and not only in skills but also in character, and an inspiring capacity to embrace feedback and move forward. I love their genuine eagerness to grow, not just as individuals, but as contributors to a shared purpose.  Are Lowela and Reynan the first LP4Y graduates that you are working with? And would you like to recruit other Youths who followed LP4Y training ? Why ?  No, they weren’t the first, I’ve had many teammates like MJ, Neverlie, JC, Cecil, Lendy, Cielo and many more. But, they weren’t my first LP4Y graduates I have worked with since I became a Department Manager, and the experience has been both inspiring and fulfilling. I would absolutely like to recruit more Youth from the program because they bring unique strengths, resilience, openness and a deep sense of purpose, that enrich any team they join. Their growth mindset and eagerness to contribute make them strong assets in a people-centered, vision-driven culture like Decathlon’s. Lowelas’s testimonial “ My name is Lowela Moreal, and my story is one of growth, resilience, and a firm belief in my own potential. At 19 years old, as a young mother originally from Calauan, Laguna, I've already learned that success isn't defined by a straight, predictable path, but by the courage to face challenges head-on. My journey truly began when I decided to move to Santa Rosa to be closer to new opportunities, a decision that led me to two experiences that have shaped me profoundly: my time at LP4Y and my current role at Decathlon. ​My path of self-discovery started on September 12, 2024, when I joined LP4Y. It was there, particularly in the Learning and Development (LD) team, that I discovered my inner strength and began to understand what it means to be a professional. I still vividly remember my first week. As the only person from my department, I felt challenged by an upcoming event. I could have waited for someone to guide me, but instead, I took the initiative. I created a group chat and led the conversation with my teammates, coordinating our tasks and planning the event. It was a simple event, but the sense of accomplishment and shared joy we felt was unforgettable. This experience taught me a powerful lesson: to always remain positive and confident, no matter how difficult a situation may seem. It was a turning point that taught me to trust in myself and believe that I could handle any challenge. ​That lesson became invaluable as I took the next big step in my career. On May 5, 2025, I started my first day as an Omni Sales Assistant (OSA) at Decathlon. Initially, I knew nothing about the company, but as I researched it, I became captivated by its international scope and the opportunity it represented. I saw it as a chance to prove my capabilities and challenge the preconceived notions that often follow a young, unmarried mother who hasn't graduated from college. I was nervous on my first day, but that quickly faded as I was welcomed into a friendly, energetic, and dynamic environment. Everyone was so welcoming that I soon felt motivated and eager to learn everything I could. My role is to assist customers, and I strive to make every single one, especially first-time visitors, feel satisfied with our service. It's a job I truly love. ​At Decathlon, I am continuously developing my communication skills, which are crucial for ensuring customer satisfaction and building strong relationships with my teammates. But beyond the practical skills, the most important lesson I’ve learned from my mentors and colleagues is to be honest with myself. They’ve taught me that true success comes from authenticity, not from pretending to be someone you're not. This is a lesson that resonates deeply with me. My journey, from an LP4Y Youth to a Decathlon employee, has shown me that my past does not define me. I am determined to improve my skills and show everyone who I truly am, a person who is confident, resilient, and ready to achieve her goals. I am convinced that by staying true to myself and embracing every challenge, I will succeed." Reynan’s testimony: “ Hello! My name is Reynan Catarroja, and I’m 20 years old. I’m originally from Quezon Province but currently live alone in Santa Rosa, Laguna, where I work at Decathlon. I’m the second youngest among my siblings. In my free time, I enjoy attending church, swimming, and playing volleyball. After graduating from senior high school, I decided to move to Laguna to find work. That’s when I discovered LP4Y, a professional training program for excluded Youth, and I joined it in September 2024. I spent six months as part of the event organizing team, handling responsibilities across three departments. From this experience, I gained valuable skills, such as computer literacy and event management. Following my time at LP4Y, I was hired by Decathlon as an OSA on May 5, 2025. While completing my last month at LP4Y, I actively searched for jobs and was invited to an interview at Decathlon Santa Rosa. Although I received several job offers from different companies, I chose Decathlon because it was my dream job. I wanted to take on new challenges, learn more, and grow in an environment where I knew I would be a great fit. On my first day at Decathlon, I felt a mix of gratitude, excitement, and nervousness. Now, I’m focused on improving my layout skills and delivering world-class customer service. As an OSA, I always remember the most valuable advice my leader gave me: “Put yourself in the customer’s shoes. Be excellent at customer service, and remember, whatever you’re doing, the user is always your priority.” ““ LP4Y word: Every Youth who succeeds is proof that inclusion works. Through the LP4Y training and the support of partners like Décathlon, who believe in their potential, more young lives can be transformed. Let’s continue working together to create opportunities, break barriers, and build a future where every Youth has a place in the professional world.

My name is Atta, 19 years old . I am still young, but my life journey has made me grow up faster than my age suggests . I am a graduate of LP4Y, a place that not only teaches skills, but also supports my personal change , shaping the way I see the world and myself . Since childhood, I have been accustomed to living in silence . My mother rarely came home because she worked far away to support our family . I grew up alone, learning to cook by myself  and learning to calm myself  when the nights felt long. Even so, I never resented her. I knew that her absence was the quietest form of love  she had. After graduating with a degree in Computer and Network Engineering , I carried that diploma like a fragile hope . I applied to many places, but most rejected me or didn’t respond . My savings were dwindling , and I began to question how long I could hold on . That’s when I found LP4Y , a new hope  for a life that was beginning to fade. I came with hesitant steps , but with a strong desire to change my fate . My days at LP4Y gradually transformed my life . I learned to wake up early, be disciplined, value time, and work without fear of failure . There, mistakes weren’t a shame, but a learning process . My Catalyst became the most influential person in my life . Her gentle and understanding way of speaking  gave me the courage to try again  every time I stumbled. From her simple words, “Take your time, Atta,”  I learned that it’s okay to fail, it’s okay to be slow, as long as you keep moving forward . English, which used to make me nervous, now flows more smoothly . My confidence has grown . I’ve started to take initiative, work before being asked , and learn to see problems from different angles . When I joined the team, I brought ideas that made us work more productively . My friend said, “Your ideas always get the team moving.”  That made me feel more alive than my former self . Change breeds dreams.  In the near future, I want to become a WiFi technician , something close to my expertise . I want to buy a laptop  as a sign that my life is moving forward . I also want to become a futsal coach . I already have a license , and the field always makes me feel valuable . In the long term, I want to build a warm family  different from the quiet home  where I grew up. I want to have a comfortable house, a simple car, and a life full of love . Above all, I want to be proof that change is possible . That life can move forward  as long as we don’t stop . I chose the title “Melody and Intonation”  because these two words describe my relationship with this journey of life . Melody is the story of every beautiful moment, every ups and downs, and every meaningful memory. Intonation is how I understand the ups and downs of emotions, changes, and how I learn to express myself honestly. The two come together to form the music of my journey .

My name is Krishala Rai , and I am from Panchthar Rabi, Nepal . Before joining LP4Y, my life was very uncertain. I was jobless, shy, and had very little confidence in myself. I didn’t know what my dream was or what I wanted to do in life.  Every day felt the same, and even though I wanted to move forward, I didn’t know how. When I first heard about LP4Y , I shared it with my family. At first, they didn’t really understand what it was, but after I explained, they allowed me to join and supported me . That moment became the first small step  that slowly changed my life . When I entered LP4Y , everything began to change and I started my transformation . I was nervous and quiet in the beginning, but little by little, I started feeling comfortable . Our Catalyst treated us like their own children , always guiding us with patience, kindness, and support . Through the activities and training, I learned so many things that I never imagined I would learn. I discovered how to speak confidently , face interviews , prepare my CV , and understand my strengths . Before LP4Y, I didn’t even know what a CV was or how to present myself professionally.  LP4Y didn’t just teach me management and communication , it helped me see a new version of myself , someone who could dream and work hard for that dream . One of the most memorable parts of my journey was doing yoga with Puja, the Ecosystem Developer Catalyst . Those yoga sessions made me feel calm and peaceful , both mentally and physically. Whenever I joined, I felt lighter, happier, and more connected with myself . That simple moment became something very special  in my LP4Y experience because it gave me strength and positivity . Today, I am proudly working at Veritacore Nepal as a Photo Editor . Before LP4Y, I had no idea how a company worked or how to behave professionally.  But now, I can communicate confidently, manage my tasks, and work properly in a company environment . This job has helped me in many ways: financially, emotionally, and personally . I feel independent now , capable of supporting myself, and more prepared for my future . I have always loved nature, peace, and creativity , and through my editing work, I get to express that love every day . LP4Y truly changed my life.  It gave me direction, purpose, and hope . It helped me discover who I am , a young woman who believes in herself, works hard, and keeps growing every day . If I could say something to other young people, I would tell them not to be afraid of taking the first step . LP4Y is not just a program; it is like a family that supports you, believes in you, and helps you rise.  Before LP4Y, I was full of doubts , but now I can speak confidently, work professionally, and follow my dreams . I am proud of how far I’ve come, from a girl with no clear dream to an independent woman who believes in her own power . Change truly begins the moment you believe in yourself, and LP4Y helped me believe in myself.

My name is Ravi Yadav . I am 19 years old  and I come from Sakti District, Chhattisgarh . I completed my 12th grade in Science . My hobbies are playing sports and learning new things, and my dream is to become a teacher . Before joining LP4Y, I was at home doing nothing. My routine was only sleeping, waking up, and eating. Sometimes I helped my father with farming, housework, and receiving people at home, but most of the time I felt lost . I had forgotten who I was. I felt lazy, useless, and like a burden to my family . I had completely lost faith in studies because everyone around me kept telling me that studying had no value. Still, deep down, I wanted to do something meaningful , but I didn’t have a platform. My family always motivated me, telling me that I was a good student. I stopped studying for almost two years  because I wanted to support my middle-class family , even though my parents wanted me to continue my education. I tried to find work, but I didn’t get any. Then I asked myself, “Is this routine okay for me?”  And I realized it wasn’t. When I asked educated people (teachers, doctors) whether studying was important, all of them said yes . That was the moment I understood that I needed to return to studies . My father told my cousin, who is a government employee and also connected with LP4Y, about me. My cousin called me and told me about the Training & Development Center . My family encouraged me to go, saying, “This is a good chance for you to restart your life.” Now, I am doing training at the LP4Y Green Village in Chhattisgarh . When I first arrived at the center, a dog was barking and I was confused. Then Vasu (a senior Youth)  welcomed me. Everyone was having snacks, and at first I thought it was a boys’ hostel. When I saw girls too, I was shocked and surprised. Later, I joined everyone in a Garba dance . On my first day, I joined the morning briefing . Everyone was standing in a circle using sign language, and I didn’t understand anything. I thought, “What is this? How will I manage? Everyone knows English except me.”  But I found “Knowledge of the Day”  and “Thought of the Day”  during briefing time very interesting. After two or three days, I started feeling comfortable, and I started to change . I began enjoying everything. I learned so many new things; about business, interviews, jobs, and life in general . I also asked a lot of questions. People would say, “You always ask too many questions,”  but I didn’t listen because I wanted to learn and improve . Since day one, I have enjoyed every moment. I learned how to impress people through communication , how to face challenges , manage pressure , behave professionally , organize events , and lead a team . As a member of the Event company , we organize many programs. Sometimes we receive negative feedback (being late, poor time management) but I take the positive things from every comment because anyone can teach me something, whether a Coach  or another Youth . Sometimes people got upset when I spoke too directly, but my coach taught me how to speak more politely . I made many mistakes. But every day, I learned something new . One of the most important things I learned is that everyone is equal , no matter where you come from or who you are. Everyone deserves a chance to shine  and be included. Another precious lesson I learned is that everything depends on your mindset . That is a golden truth  for me. The Green Village is a golden place  and this time here is precious. I have no words to express how I feel. The coaches always motivate and teach me , and I am truly inspired by them . I am proud that our micro-company is making a profit . It is the result of teamwork and hard work . We are the top-performing company , and every event is an opportunity to learn and help others learn . We always give our 100% and improve from our mistakes. My main goal is to become a teacher  because children are the foundation and the future of our nation . I want to inspire them  to do something meaningful for themselves, their families, and their country. Teachers have a strong influence, I experienced that myself. Indeed, I have always been inspired by my teachers , that’s why they made me want to do this job. I want to end with two messages: The past is gone and will never come back. The present is our best gift. We don’t know the future, so live and enjoy the present and always focus on the process, not the result. If your process is good, the result will also be good.”

Hi, my name is Jhunclide Laput but you can call me Clide. I’m 26 years old and I live in  Brgy. Inayawan, Cebu City and this is the story of my life before I knew about LP4Y and until I joined it and how I started overcoming poverty. I come from a poor family. We live in the  mountains. My father went to Qatar to work, until my mom and dad separated, and my mom decided to move us to Cebu city. Living there was different from the mountains. The houses were nice, there were a lot of people, our house was close to the school. And there were many schools you could choose from.  Our mother sent us to school. She worked just to support our daily needs and for our  schooling . When I graduated from Elementary School, my mother still sent me to school. I went to High School. Even though I had to repeat grade 6 three times because I kept dropping out since we kept moving houses. And when I was in my 1st year of high school, I made some friends. I would go with  them to cutting classes. We would drink and drink, until I learned to use drugs . To make this long story short, I became a person without dreams : I wanted to keep using drugs and selling drugs until one day, I was caught and detained in the Cebu City Jail .  A few months later, I was released from  prison. I tried to apply for a proper job , but it  was difficult for me to meet the requirements because I had a criminal record . But I needed money to support my son : I had a son who was 3 years old at the time. So, I went back to illegal work . I sold drugs again , but this time in large quantities. And I had a lot of money. I remembered in my past, if we wanted to buy something, my mother wouldn't buy it because we were poor , if we wanted to eat something , we couldn't eat it because we didn't have money to buy it: so  now that I had money , I promised myself I would buy everything we couldn’t before , especially for my son . Expensive things, expensive clothes, delicious food, going to expensive malls,  expensive toys for my son, and I would send my younger brother to the school he wanted.  After a few months of doing illegal things. I  was caught and detained here at the Lapu Lapu City Jail. All my hopes for my siblings and children were crushed . I was sad because I could no longer provide for their needs and wishes . My case was very difficult and complicated . It was not going to be easy. I still had to stay in prison for a long time while my case was being heard. I was not sure if I would win. If I lost my case, it would convict me of a life sentence. Life here in jail is difficult . If you don't act, you will have a hard time. I was not able to cope with all the hardships and loneliness. Until one day, a friend of mine who was  training with LP4Y at T Origin asked me if I had any other activities. He endorsed LP4Y, and said it was an organization that could help me in my future : one that could change my  life.  I tried LP4Y...I joined for 1 week to observe. I was mostly interested because I needed and wanted to speak English . So, I continued until I finished the 6-month training. Now I am an ambassador of LP4Y and I am the Stars president of Lapu-Lapu City Jail . LP4Y helped me a lot , not only in learning English but also in teaching me how to do my job . I have developed many skills , such as  communication skills and leadership skills, which I am now using as a Stars president. I also learned that if you have a dream , you have to work hard to achieve it . Being poor is not an excuse to not achieve your dream .  The time will come when all the hardships you've gone through, all the hard work and suffering, will all be worth it when you achieve your dreams . I now have a dream: my short-term goal is to become a paramedic because I want to help  people , especially the elderly , and my long-term goal is to create an organization like ambulance services because I want to be able to serve people for free , like the poor.  When I get out, I will use everything I learned  here at LP4Y . So that my family and son can see that even though I failed, I still have a chance to change . And I will try to achieve my dreams for my future .   And I will leave you with this saying; POVERTY IS NOT  A HINDRANCE TO SUCCESS!

My name is Nay Myo Aung , and I’m 21 years old . I’m currently one of the youths attending the LP4Y program . I come from a small town called Gangaw , located in the Magway Region  of Myanmar. I didn’t complete high school because the schools were closed during Covid-19 , my education stopped in Grade 10 , when I was just 16. In my hometown, there aren’t many stable job opportunities, so I’ve done different kinds of labor work  to support myself and my family. We are five family members : my father, mother, older brother, younger brother, and me. However, when I turned 21 , things began to change. With the support of my brother, I moved to Yangon  in February 2025 . Even though he works in Kuwait , he continues to support and guide me  about my future. In June , my brother found out about LP4Y on Facebook  and encouraged me to join. Since I wanted to gain real workplace experience , I decided to apply. Before joining LP4Y, I was lost, without confidence and without clear goals. Now, everything is different. I have been attending company visits, events, and Life Project Plan (LPP) trainings  with my coaches. I’ve come to understand more clearly what skills I already have and what I need to improve  to reach my goals. My dream is to become a photographer and video editor.  I’m passionate about showing the beauty of my surroundings, my culture, and the sceneries around Myanmar  through vlogs and photos. I truly believe that by continuing to learn and develop my skills , I will be able to achieve my goals  and build a better future  for myself. That’s how I’m framing my future, one picture, one story, and one dream at a time.

I never imagined that I would reach this point in my life, yet every painful chapter has made me stronger and more determined to rise. My name is Sangeeta Shrestha and Her Life Her Strength is the story of how I turned pain and abandonment into purpose and hope.  I was born in Kathmandu , but love, safety, and proper care were missing  from my childhood. My mother left me when I was just one year old , and although I lived with my father and relatives , no one truly cared for me . By the age of five, I had already experienced what it meant to survive without support . I spent years near Pashupatinath Temple , collecting thrown-away items  to earn a few rupees for food. The streets became my home.  Sleeping under the open sky and eating leftovers were normal parts of my childhood. As I grew older, I was sent to work in other people’s houses.  I saw my father coming only to take the money I earned , despite having a government job. I worked in cowsheds, carried vegetables from markets, sold roasted corn , and even walked around selling bread and snacks  just to survive. During this time, I was often looked at with bad intentions , and I had to constantly protect myself  because people believed that a girl with no family support could easily be harmed.  These years taught me to be strong , but they also filled me with deep emotional wounds. There was a moment when I felt completely hopeless , so much so that I even tried to end my own life.  That painful moment made me realize that regardless of what others say or think about me, my life has value , and I must keep moving forward.  I continued my studies until grade eight , and step by step, I kept fighting for a better life. Later, I started modeling , hoping to find a new path. I got married to a man I met through Facebook , and although we had dreams of a better life together , things did not go as planned. He left abroad four weeks after our marriage , and I soon became pregnant.  I returned to living with my in-laws , where financial struggles once again surrounded me.  My family responsibilities grew, and despite many efforts, every business we tried failed.  I opened a dairy shop , sold snacks on a cart , but nothing succeeded.  After giving birth, I even worked as a teacher for one and a half years , but the salary was too low  to sustain us. In all these situations, my self-confidence slowly faded.  I felt that I was uneducated, unskilled, and not capable  of achieving anything. I wanted to do something meaningful, but I did not know where to begin. This changed the day I found Life Project 4 Youth (LP4Y). LP4Y welcomed me not as a failed woman, but as a strong young person full of potential.  They believed in me even before I believed in myself.  Through LP4Y, I learned to rebuild my confidence, communicate in English, and develop professional skills.  More importantly, I discovered my courage, my abilities, and my right to dream. LP4Y gave me a supportive environment  where I am respected, encouraged, and guided to grow.  They helped me understand that my past struggles are not a weakness but a strength  that shapes who I am today. For the first time, I feel hopeful about my future.  I feel ready to build a better life for my family  and step into the job market as a capable, skilled, and dedicated young woman. I am deeply grateful to LP4Y  for lighting a path that once felt completely dark.  They have given hope to young women like me  who were ignored by society, yet refused to give up. Today, I feel proud, strong, and confident  that I can achieve the life I once only dreamed about. Thank you, LP4Y, for transforming my journey and helping me find my true worth.

Sometimes in life, we don’t realize how privileged we are until we see that the life we are living could be someone else’s dream. This is the story of Nisha Mandal , a Youth from the batch of 2024 from GV West Bengal, India   a warrior who dared to dream again. The story begins during a mobilization in Bagnan, a small village in West Bengal. It was a toto announcement mobilization  when we first met her, a young woman with a quiet presence but eyes full of untold stories. Nisha was married at just 16 years old , an age when most girls are still in school, learning about the world. In her small village, early marriages were still common, driven by tradition and social pressure. Her life seemed ordinary at first  she became a mother at 19 , caring for her child and family. But one day, her husband left to work abroad… and never returned. Two years later, her parents forced her to remarry. She wasn’t ready, but family pressure left her with no choice. Her second marriage turned violent. She and her child were abused almost every day until one day she made the brave decision to separate from her husband. Not everyone gets the chance to dream freely. But when Nisha Mandal found that chance, she decided to fly. That chance came when she discovered LP4Y  during mobilization. She wasn’t sure what to do with her life, but one thing was clear that she wanted to build her own future. When she joined the training, Nisha was shy, not confident, and uncertain about her goals. Her education was limited, and she had never really thought about what her dreams could look like. But little by little, things began to change. Through the Life Project Plan  sessions, she started imagining her future, how she wanted it to look and who she wanted to become. In the Job Search  sessions, she learned about working culture and different job sectors, opening her eyes to new possibilities. During her Micro-Company  tasks, she began gaining skills and practicing them with focus and joy. Slowly, she started to relive her dreams again. But as they say, life always tests you. She faced pressure from home to return to her old life and was even kept away from her child. It broke her courage for a while. That’s when Face-to-Face  sessions became her safe space. She began to express herself, open up, and rediscover her worth. With the right guidance and professional exposure, she started believing in herself again. Nisha realized she wanted to become a professional beautician . She began her job search, but it wasn’t easy, she didn’t have a place to stay, and time was running out. Most companies asked for prior training or certification, which she didn’t have. Then, she found a training center offering a beautician course for free by herself following her Life Project Plan . That was her turning point. With renewed confidence and clarity, she completed the training in 45 days and soon got her first job as a Junior Beautician . Today, Nisha works as a Senior Beautician  at a professional salon named Emania  in Andhra Pradesh living her dream of being independent and free.She had the power inside her all along quiet, steady, waiting. One day, she chose not to hide it anymore. She decided to glow. Her story is not just about one youth. It’s about a story of chasing dreams, change, empowerment, and the courage to dream . Sometimes, all it takes is a small catalyst, a spark, to help someone realize that they can not only dream but also live their dream.

Hii, my name is Silpia Juliyana Parha, I’m 19 years old, and I’m from Jakarta.  I joined LP4Y  in April 2025  and graduate September 2025 , currently, I am doing an internship at Forvis Mazars as HR learning & development . Before joining LP4Y, I faced many challenges  in developing myself, especially in building confidence and communication skills . I also struggled to find an environment that supported learning and teamwork . At that time, I was still uncertain about my potential  and didn’t have a clear direction for my career or personal goals . During my time at LP4Y , I had many unforgettable moments . I had the opportunity to meet coaches from Indonesia and other countries , people I didn’t know at first, but who later felt like family  to me. They always supported and guided me , which made me feel comfortable and appreciated . I also met many new friends  who shared the same goals and struggles, which made me feel that I was not alone  on this journey. One of the turning points  for me was when I started to become more confident . Through various activities and challenges , I learned to speak up, express my ideas, and take responsibility . That experience completely changed the way I saw myself and my future . During LP4Y, I gained many new skills  such as communication, teamwork, leadership, and time management . I also improved my English language skills  and learned to be more confident  when facing new situations . Overall, LP4Y helped me grow professionally and personally . Currently, I am undergoing an internship  and continue to strive to develop myself professionally . After graduating from the LP4Y programme , I feel more confident about facing the real working environment . LP4Y has greatly helped me prepare for professional life , from improving my communication and teamwork skills  to learning how to manage my time and responsibilities better . The support from my coaches and friends at LP4Y  has also been very meaningful to me. They always encourage me to keep learning, stay motivated, and believe in my potential . Even after graduating, I still feel connected and supported  by my LP4Y friends . When I first entered the professional world, the main challenge  I faced was adapting to the working methods of large companies  and adjusting to a new environment . However, the experience and lessons from LP4Y  helped me overcome these challenges step by step . Now, I can say that LP4Y has played a big role in shaping me into a more confident, responsible, and continuously developing person . An important lesson  I learned from LP4Y, which I still apply in my life today, is about responsibility and discipline . I still remember when I once sent my motivation letter late . Since then, I promised myself not to repeat the same mistake . I also learned to be more careful and organised  in completing each task  so that the results meet expectations  and are finished on time . My advice to youth currently participating in the training programme  is to make the most of your time as a youth . Whenever there is an opportunity that can help you grow , such as becoming an MC, joining an event committee, or participating in other activities , don’t be afraid to take it. Every experience provides valuable lessons , and we can grow in many ways  as long as we truly want to. For the LP4Y organisation , especially the coaches who guide the youth , I feel that the teaching and support  so far have been excellent. However, I believe it would be better if the coaches were a little stricter  so that the youth can become more disciplined  and better prepared for the professional world . In the future, I want to become a career woman , have a lot of money , and work as a customer service professional . Now, as I continue my internship  and prepare for professional life, I can proudly say that I am finding my voice with LP4Y, gaining confidence, responsibility, and the skills needed to succeed in my career.

The classroom was silent , except for anxious whispers . I stood at the front, heart pounding, palms sweating . A simple assignment and presentation felt like climbing Mt Everest , which was nearly impossible for me. In school, I had always been the quiet one . I never participated in extracurricular activities , rarely raised my hands to speak, and avoided attention at all costs. “ Good Morning ,” I whispered, barely audible. And then nothing. The teacher’s voice cut through the silence, sharp and disappointed . My face burned with embarrassment . I could barely look at my classmates, and the shame  followed me till I reached home. That guilt stayed inside me for a long period. This moment could have crushed me but instead, something shifted inside me , a quiet fire  that led to a beautiful journey to youth empowerment . I started seeking opportunities , doing volunteering , taking small initiatives , learning from every failure . Slowly, bit by bit, I discovered my own strength . I learned how to communicate, lead, and stand tall . The shy boy who froze at a simple “Good morning” became capable, confident, and ready to face the world . And with this transformation came a new purpose of life: youth empowerment . I realized that there are countless young people full of potential but lacking guidance, confidence, or opportunity . That fire drew me to various organizations and finally Life Project for Youth (LP4Y) , a place where I could coach young minds, support youth, help them discover themselves , and guide them towards professional and social inclusion . For the past one and a half years , I have walked alongside youth aged 18–25 , witnessing their struggles, perseverance, and victories . Every day, I watch sparks of transformation . A young woman who once doubted herself now speaks with confidence . A trainee who thought no job could meet their needs now holds multiple offers  and chooses the one that will shape their life . One story, in particular, stays close to my heart. A young mother  with a three-year-old , arrived at the Training and Development Center unsure of what she could achieve . Her dream  was simple: to earn some money to support her family . But as she trained, learned, and grew, everything changed . By the end, she had four job offers . She chose a position as a team leader  in a reputed company , leading a team of five , supporting her husband  and caring for her child . She returned to the center to share her journey, inspiring others  with her courage and determination . Working with young people  is more than a job for me. The energy, determination, and dreams  of these young people fuel my growth . From them, I learned patience, calmness, and humanity . From youth I discovered that happiness does not require abundance , sometimes it only requires resilience, courage, and willingness to push forward . My journey is one of transformation , not just my own but of every life I touch . From a boy who could barely speak in front of a classroom to a person supporting youth in shaping the future , my story is proof of courage, dedication, and the power of empathy . Every smile , every success story , every “thank you”  from a young person is a spark  that lights my path forward. My dream  is simple yet deep: to dedicate my life to youth empowerment , to mentor, guide, and ignite the same fire in others  that once ignited within me. I believe that when we invest in youth , we invest in a future full of hope, opportunity, and possibility . And in this mission, I found my purpose, joy, and ultimate fulfillment . Today, Kuldeep Chaudhari’s journey from silence to empowerment serves as a reminder that courage, resilience, and support can ignite confidence and purpose in the lives of young people.

Good day to all of you, I am Cristina M. Baldera, 21 years old, living in Dayap, Calauan, Laguna. I grew up without a mother . I lived with my father and grandmother . My mother left me when I was only two months old . She told my father and grandmother she would come back when my brother was seven years old, but she never came . Then she called again and said she would come home when I was one year old, but still, no one came. When I was seven years old, we learned that my mother was pregnant . I told my father that I wanted a new mother, but he said he didn’t want to because he still loved my mom . Then my mom called again and said she wanted to take me, but my father didn’t agree. I told him I wanted to see her, but he didn’t let me, so I ran away . I went to my grandfather, my mother’s father, hoping I could go to her. But my grandfather was not kind to me , so I called my mother to send me money for transportation to go back to Laguna. When I finally stayed in my mother’s house, I was there for three months . At first, we got along, but later my mother started hurting me  and said it was because I looked like my father. One time, my mom went home to Mindoro to visit my brother in the hospital. She left me in the house with my sister and her husband. While I was sleeping, something terrible happened, I was harmed by my stepfather.  I told my mother what happened, but she struggled to believe me. So I ran away again and looked for a job. I worked for one month, but at that job my male boss also took advantage of me.  I reported it to his wife, but she didn’t believe me. When he found out that I had told her, he told me to go with him to one of his houses to get some things. I trusted him and went with him, but when we were inside the van, I lost consciousness. When I woke up, I was in a remote house. I saw another woman there, and she was chained.  I tried to run, but he caught me and restrained me too. There were six of us women locked in that house. We were held there for five years. On February 25, 2015 , my boss was not there. We heard someone passing by and asked for help. The man said he would return, and after two hours people came, broke the door, and freed us.  We were brought to the barangay, where we told the truth. After that, they called our parents. My mother came and helped me file a case.  But about a month later, she said she was going somewhere. When she returned, she had groceries and money. When I asked where it came from, she said nothing. A few days later, my boss’s wife came and told me that my mother had withdrawn the case.  It hurt me deeply, but I refused to accept it. I told my mother I wanted to go to DSWD (Department of Social Welfare and Development) but she didn’t agree. So I ran away again and went to my grandmother in Bicol . I told her I wanted to go to DSWD so I could think about what to do. I stayed there for two and a half years  until someone called to tell me that the man had finally been caught. I told the head of DSWD that I wanted to return to Laguna to continue my case. After one and a half years in DSWD Lamot 2, Calauan, Laguna , I continued the case until I won. Many people told me I couldn’t win, but I didn’t listen. I just kept going because I knew I was doing the right thing. After one month, another child with a case like mine came to DSWD. He didn’t want to fight, but the head asked me to talk to him so he would have courage. I encouraged him to continue, and he did, but two months later, he died of a heart attack.  His story made me even stronger. On August 30, 2023 , I was released from DSWD. I went home to my mom again. I was still angry, but I tried to get along with her. Then my sister got sick, and I took care of her until she died.  My mother blamed me even though I did nothing wrong. Even when I didn’t eat, I made sure my sister could eat. After that, I ran away again and worked at a bakery. I didn’t know about LP4Y (Life Project 4 Youth) , but when I met my live-in partner and his sister, I learned about LP4Y because she recommended it to me. At first, I didn’t like it  because it was very difficult for me, but I tried to learn everything. When I first started attending LP4Y, I didn’t know what to do, but after a month, I started liking it because I learned a lot, especially teamwork, communication, and computer skills.  I’m happy to go to LP4Y every day because the other youth motivate me, and sometimes we visit different companies, which inspires me even more. Now I am in the Management Step.  I’ve learned to manage my time, lead a team, and teach my teammates our tasks.  For the coming Job Search phase, I want to be a production operator , and I also want to return to school to fulfill my dream of becoming a policewoman. LP4Y has changed me a lot.  Before, I didn’t know what to do, I just slept and used my cellphone all day. But now, I know how to be a leader, use a computer, speak in English, and work with the barangay and schools.  I’m learning to become a professional person. Now I am stronger. I have learned to smile again. I don’t want to leave LP4Y because here I found my family, the youth who understand me and accept me. In everything that has happened in my life, I have learned a lot, especially to be strong , even when people tell me that I can’t fight or finish what I started. I don’t listen to them because I know in myself that I can, and I also know that what I’m doing is right. I want to tell others: fight back. No matter how much they threaten you, don’t give up. We deserve justice and peace.  Let’s be careful in trusting people and always think before making decisions, so we can protect ourselves and others. I hope for those who didn’t fight, this is the time when you can share your experiences. Don’t be afraid. Many will listen to you, but even if they don’t, listen to yourself. Make a way like I did. No one listened to me at first, but when I went to DSWD, people finally heard me and helped me. As long as you don’t lose hope, always believe that you can fight for yourself, and that by standing strong, you also help others see that they can fight too. Today, Cristina stands as a living example of moving from fear to confidence, inspiring other youth to fight for themselves and believe in a brighter future.