Samvad: The diamond that changed my life

Life before Samvad

Before joining Samvad, I was studying away from home. I lacked confidence, communication skills, and knowledge. I often felt shy, uncertain, and uncomfortable speaking in front of others. Making decisions was difficult, and I frequently thought, “I cannot do anything because I am not perfect.”

Finding my voice through Samvad

Everything changed when I joined Samvad, a programme run by SAHAS Nepal in partnership with Strømme Foundation. Samvad, which means dialogue or conversation, brings people together to discuss important topics and find solutions collaboratively. Through SAHAS Nepal, I was given the opportunity to work as a Samvad Animator, leading a group of 20 adolescents over six months.

At first, I felt nervous and uncertain because I had never led a group before. Leading 20 adolescents was challenging for me, but my organization provided training on how to guide adolescents and conduct Samvad sessions effectively.

Building confidence and leadership

During the program, I learned many valuable lessons. I developed self-confidence, leadership abilities, and a better understanding of my own skills and potential. I learned to think positively, face challenges with courage and responsibility, and develop a solution-oriented mindset. I also gained knowledge about life skills and career development planning, including how to set goals and achieve them step by step.

As part of the program, I organized activities and awareness campaigns on important social issues such as drug abuse, child marriage, and waste management. Through street dramas and interactive activities, I encouraged adolescents to participate actively and speak openly about issues affecting their communities. These experiences taught me how to organize programs, collaborate with communities, and become a more effective leader.

I encouraged adolescents to speak confidently, introduce themselves clearly, express their opinions on social issues, and develop their own career plans. Through guidance, practice, and supportive activities, they gradually became more independent and confident in themselves.

I also worked with parents and children through the Parents Samvad and Bal Bagaicha programs. I taught parents about family development, livelihoods, and life skills, while guiding children on discipline and personal growth. From this experience, I learned financial management, community engagement, and how to work effectively with families. Working with children was especially fun, meaningful, and rewarding.

In addition, I participated in speech competitions, mental health awareness sessions, and leadership workshops. Later, as an Act Now student, I attended a follow-up seminar organized by the Stromme Foundation, where I met other Act Now students, directors, and supervisors. This experience gave me new motivation, inspiration, and even greater self-confidence.

New opportunities through Samvad

Because of the confidence, courage, responsibility, and skills I gained through Samvad, I later received a life-changing opportunity to come to Norway. Here, I am learning about different cultures, languages, motivational tools, and practical skills. I am connecting with international peers, exchanging ideas, and continuing to develop both personally and professionally.

Samvad is more than just a program. It is a safe and supportive space where adolescents can freely share their opinions, speak up, and create positive change in their lives. For me, and for many others, Samvad is life-changing. It builds confidence, encourages young people to think positively, and helps them plan for their future. It helps adolescents discover their potential, develop important life skills, and contribute to their communities. Samvad not only empowers young people, but also inspires positive change in families and society as a whole.