Radha's testimonial at Save the Child Foundation 15 Year Anniversary

About Kanchi Maya Tamang Born youngest to the six siblings, Kanchhi Maya Tamang is from Yarsha Village of Sindhupalchowk-one of the ​least developed districts in Nepal. In her village, girls are deprived from the basic needs of educating and being educated. They are discouraged from learning and are instead directed to earn. ​To such constrained ideological belief, she was pursuing her passion of being educated. At grade seven her mother wanted to marry her off to which she revolted and her mother poisoned herself in the revolt of her choice. She was saved luckily; nonetheless, Kanchhi continued her journey of education till SLC by surpassing many obstacles and hardships. Her journey to Egypt After completing SLC, like many others who went to India to easily get a working visa in a foreign country, she went to stay with her sister and brother-in law in India to fly to Egypt. She then flew to Egypt, hoping for a better future for herself and her family. After working in Egypt for couple of years, she realized, how women like her are being exploited in many different forms. Facing different mental tortures at work, not being given her own salary in time to being questioned a lot for the reasons of needing it, Kanchhi had had enough for six years. Coming back to Nepal She wants to carry the message of, urgent and immediate need of uniting against all forms of violence faced by women and girls to the top of the world; Mount Everest. She believes that, gender equality is not only a fundamental human right, but a necessary foundation for a peaceful, prosperous and sustainable world. Providing women and girls with equal access to education, health care, decent work, and representation in political and economic decision-making processes will fuel sustainable economies and benefit societies and humanity at large. Sindhupalchowk district is known as the most human trafficked place in Nepal. Most of the trafficked girls even after their return don’t get good treatment from the society forcing them to return India. Kanchhi who has successfully climbed Mount Mera Peak which is 6470 mt high, now wants to climb Everest for women suffering and grieving at home and abroad advocating their rights. She also wants to spread the message around the world raising voice against trafficking and for women to be rescued. She is striving in encouraging women to rise from the socio-cultural limitation to being educated. Everest Expedition Preparing to summit Mt. Everest accompanying the mountaineering group led by Mr. Pemba Sherpa (4 Guinness Book of World Record Holder) , she is starting her journey from the 15th of April which will extend to a month with the circumstantial situations and weather condition. 35 lakhs has been set as the budget out of which 15 lakhs has already been met. She wants to be the first woman from Tamang ethnicity to ascent Everest to which she is still 20 lakhs away. The financial resource is the hope for her to realize her dream. Donate to invest for the voice against Human Trafficking who believes in Girl Education and is a proud Mountaineer unshaken by the rough terrains of life believing in empowerment by empowering herself and others. You can donate here: https://www.generosity.com/community-fundraising/to-mt-everest-with-message-for-gender-equality/x/14558071 Civil Society Advisory Group of UN Women Nepal represented by one of the Members, Mr. Chewan Rai will be handling this fund raising page. If you need further information please do not hesitate to contact us 1) Kanchi Maya Tamang - 9823380666 2) Pemba Dorje Sherpa - 9851074836 3) Chewan Rai - 9813890516 ©Doodle World

**Empowering Education and Overcoming Challenges in Sindhupalchowk** 🌟

In a heartfelt exploration, we asked the children of Save the Child Foundation Nepal to share what or whom they love most. Their responses, filled with innocence and depth, offer a poignant glimpse into their lives and dreams. This video not only showcases their perspectives but also underscores our commitment to empowering these young voices, aligning with our mission to promote education, health, and gender equality. Join us in celebrating their stories and the universal language of love. #GirlsEducation #EmpowermentThroughEducation #HealthAndWellness #CommunityDevelopment #GenderEquality #BreakingBarriers #InvestInGirls #TransformingLives #WomenEmpowerment #EducationForChange

In a memorable educational excursion, children from Save the Child Foundation Nepal visited the Aani Gumba Monastery, immersing themselves in spiritual and cultural experiences. The journey continued to the historic Basantapur Durbar Square, where the children explored ancient architecture and learned about Nepal's rich history. The day concluded with a team dinner, fostering unity and camaraderie among the participants. This initiative aligns with our commitment to holistic development, providing children with opportunities to learn, grow, and build lasting memories. #SaveTheChildFoundation #SaveTheChildFoundationNepal #CulturalExploration #EducationalExcursion #AaniGumbaMonastery #BasantapurDurbarSquare #TeamUnity #HolisticDevelopment #EmpoweringChildren #BuildingMemories #ActionForWomensHealth

On December 7, 2022, Save the Child Foundation, in collaboration with Could You? Menstrual Cups and Baala Pads, conducted a menstrual hygiene education and product distribution program at Bishwa Shanti Chiran Milan Campus. This initiative aimed to promote menstrual health awareness and provide sustainable hygiene solutions to students and staff. Program Highlights: Welcome Session: Mr. Sanjiv Mishra, the campus coordinator, extended a warm welcome to the team, setting the tone for the day's activities. Organizational Introduction: Mamata Shah introduced Save the Child Foundation, highlighting its commitment to empowering marginalized communities through various health and education initiatives. Educational Workshop: Surabhi Khanal emphasized the importance of menstrual hygiene management, addressing common challenges and misconceptions. Product Demonstration: Ruby Sthapit and Chairperson Kanchhi Maya Tamang demonstrated the use of Could You? Menstrual Cups and Baala Pads, ensuring participants were informed and comfortable with these sustainable options. Product Distribution: Attendees were given the choice between menstrual cups and pads, with guidance provided to facilitate the transition to these eco-friendly products. Community Engagement: The event fostered open discussions, allowing participants to share experiences and build a supportive network around menstrual health. Conclusion and Fellowship: The program concluded with a communal breakfast, strengthening bonds within the campus community and reinforcing the importance of collective support in health initiatives. #SaveTheChildFoundation #CouldYouMenstrualCups #BaalaPads #MenstrualHygiene #SustainableSanitaryProducts #EmpoweringWomen #HealthEducation #CommunityEngagement #PeriodPoverty #ActionForWomensHealth

Join us as we highlight Save the Child Foundation's impactful projects across Nepal, Uganda, and India, dedicated to enhancing women's health and education. Discover our collaborations with local organizations, our commitment to menstrual hygiene, and our efforts in empowering marginalized communities. Together, we strive for a world where every woman has access to the resources and support she deserves. #WomensHealth #SaveTheChildFoundation #MenstrualHygiene #EmpowerWomen #GlobalHealthInitiatives #CommunityEmpowerment #HealthEducation #GenderEquality #NonprofitImpact #SocialGood

In 2022, Save the Child Nepal, in collaboration with Project Baala and generous donors, conducted a comprehensive menstrual hygiene awareness program at a school in Sindhupalchowk. The initiative included educational sessions on menstrual health, distribution of Baala Pads and Could You? Menstrual Cups, and engaging activities like Zumba sessions to promote physical well-being. This program aimed to provide sustainable menstrual hygiene solutions, educate young girls about their health, and foster a supportive environment for their overall well-being and education. #SaveTheChildNepal #MenstrualHygiene #BaalaPads #CouldYouCups #Sindhupalchowk #GirlsEducation #PeriodPoverty #SustainableHygiene #EmpowerGirls #HealthEducation

Join us on a powerful journey of menstrual health advocacy and community empowerment with COMMIT Nepal and Save the Child Foundation. Over three impactful days, we engaged in a menstrual hygiene rally, awareness workshops, and advocacy efforts for the Badi community, a historically marginalized group in Nepal. 🚩 Highlights of the Event: ✅ Day 1: Welcome speech by Prakash Mani Sharma, discussing the Supreme Court’s ruling on the Badi community and an advocacy session for youth. ✅ Day 2: A menstrual hygiene rally at B.P Chowk, impactful speeches (including one by Taniya), an energetic Zumba session, and inspiring story-sharing by Sheetal and Taniya. Participants also reflected on their strengths, dreams, and challenges. ✅ Day 3: A formal march to the Chief District Office, where COMMIT Nepal submitted a memorandum of demands for Badi welfare—positively acknowledged and promised to be forwarded to the Prime Minister's Office. We also introduced and distributed Baala Pads and menstrual cups to promote sustainable menstrual health. This initiative is a step forward in breaking menstrual taboos and advocating for the rights of marginalized communities. 🩸💪 📢 Join us in raising awareness! Like, comment & share to amplify this cause. 🔔 Subscribe for more inspiring initiatives from Save the Child Foundation! #MenstrualHealth #PeriodAwareness #BadiCommunity #SaveTheChildFoundation #COMMITNepal #EndingPeriodPoverty #MenstruationMatters #AdvocacyForChange #BreakTheStigma

Day 5 ( Menstruation Rally, Workshops , Memorandum for Badi Community ) On the first day of the conference, COMMIT Nepal welcomed us as guests and sponsors. Prakash Mani Sharma gave a welcome speech with the mention of the Supreme Court judgement on Badi community as a result of the writ filed by him and others. He also conducted a session on advocacy in the evening for the youths present. On the second day, we started with a menstrual hygiene rally which started from the premises of the Hotel with banners and placards on menstrual hygiene. The rally ended at B.P Chowk where different people spoke about menstrual hygiene and the importance of spreading awareness on it. Taniya was also one of the speakers. Then after our return to the session hall, the session was conducted. The zumba session saw the most energetic crowd of youths enjoying the dancing. Then we moved on to Sheetal and Taniya's story sharing through videos after which both of them spoke about their journeys. This was a part of COMMIT's itinerary scheduled as 'successful testimonials'. We then formed groups to discuss on their strengths, dreams, goals and challenges. On the third day, we started with a march to the Chief District Office, dressed in formals, where COMMIT submitted their list of demands for the welfare of Badi community. The demands were read out and positively acknowledged by the district officer with a promise to forward it to the Prime Minister's Office for quick response. Then we returned to the session hall and introduced the Baala Pads to the participants and distributed the pads. Later in the day, after the program had ended, we came back to introduce the menstrual cups to COMMIT Nepal's staff and distribute it to those willing to try it. #savethechildnepal #savethechildfoundation @connectdenfilms

DAY 2: WORKSHOP WITH CHELI NEPAL in CHITWAN. " Cheli Nepal strategically rescues victims from warehouses used to hold them in before they are 'sold' or transported elsewhere. The rescued survivors are then given different trainings with the ability to become leaders of other programs of Cheli Nepal as well, turning it into a very self-sustaining model while giving the survivors plenty of career options." The session started with a simple introduction of the participants and an energetic zumba session. Following that, Sheetal and Taniya's stories through YouTube videos was shown and then they spoke about their experiences which helped the participants connect to them. It was through the stories that there was a realization that we have all had very similar traumatic experiences. After that there was a session where random groups of participants were formed to answer questions on what their dreams, strengths and current challenges were. Then the participants were seated with crayons and markers to draw out what their goals and strength are. This was to serve as a reminder that they are well into their journey and closer to their goals each day. Finally, the session ended with a relaxing activity where the participants blew up a balloon each and played with it with care. They then slowly laid on their backs with the balloon on top of their chests, closing their eyes while they were slowly massaged by the facilitators. After the session, Sheetal and Taniya introduced the participants to Baala Pads, explaining how the chemical free pads are a good alternative. We then distributed the pads to the staff and to the participants (with a shawl for each participant). The staff and one of our kids from Save the Child expressed their gratitude for conducting such a session. AHA Moments: The young girls had the same underlying motive to all of their aspirations: to show the society that they are citizens worthy of contributing to the country, despite what society may perceive them as. - The use of a picture that participants created that can serve as a reminder that each day is worth living and we are better today and we have goals for tomorrow. - After watching the video, one of the participants shared her own experience and while doing so overcame with emotion and cried. It was a testament that within the short time that we had interacted with them, we had formed an emotional connection and become a healthy outlet for their emotions. - The expression of gratitude by Cheli Nepal was the cherry on top as it felt like the session had really been fruitful to the participants. Reflections and Lessons: - Reflection: The participants were young but through their experience, they had matured enough to know that sadness is a part of life and that their struggles do not limit their future. - Reflection: Cheli Nepal strategically rescues victims from warehouses used to hold them in before they are 'sold' or transported elsewhere. The rescued survivors are then given different trainings with the ability to become leaders of other programs of Cheli Nepal as well, turning it into a very self-sustaining model while giving the survivors plenty of career options. - Lesson: Importance of introspection-: It is such an important activity to set out time to get in touch with your feelings every once in a while. This is so that we have more clarity in life and do not let our emotions reach any tipping point. #savethechildfoundation #savethechildnepal #chelinepal #changemakers2030 #wearekranti

DAY 3 IN RAJAPUR - Badi Community in partnership with COMMIT NEPAL After a short introduction by COMMIT Nepal and Save the Child Foundation the program commenced. There were different age groups present from below 20 years of age to over 40 years of age. Introductions, Zumba Session, Baala Pads, Menstrual Cups, Healing, Motivational Speaking, Photo Ops, A lot more listening to promote more engagement and by end of the session creating an environment of hope, respect and togetherness. AHA moments (celebration): - These were women that had either been forced to participate in sex work or were still involved in sex work due to necessity. To have the opportunity to work directly them and have direct interaction with them, as expressed by Sheetal and Taniya, was amazing. #savethechildfoundation #savethechildnepal @connectdenfilms

INTERVENTIONS such as these is exactly how you tackle the Trafficking / Pushing Girls into Prostitution - both due to lack of opportunities or forced... Not possible without a team effort and a vision and a deliberate mission .... DAY 4 ( Workshop with Badi Community ) AHA moments (celebration): - These were women that had either been forced to participate in sex work or were still involved in sex work due to necessity. - Women were adamant about how they wanted a better life for their children, different than the one they had lived. There was a unity in this thought and they were persistent to bring change for their children so that the children would never be forced into sex work. - They were inspired by how Sheetal and Taniya came from similar backgrounds as theirs and had turned around their life. It was living proof that hope had not been lost for their children. Challenges faced (mourning): - One of the participants who seemed around 14-16 years old danced to her heart's extent in the zumba session but then after it was over kept crying. While Taniya comforted her, it seemed like she was facing some sort of abuse at home. Her mother had left the home and she was living with her uncles and grandmom. Though she was not open to fully talking about her situation, she seemed tensed and in discomfort. - A woman in her mid-40s expressed her worries about her children whom she now had no contact with and doubted that they had been forced into sex work. We shared the feeling of helplessness as she cried. - A mother-daughter duo came up to us to ask if we would be able to financially support the daughter's education as she wanted to pursue nursing and the family did not have the resources. We did express how we could not answer that at the moment but would discuss it and get back to them. - There was a group of old women, mostly in their 60s, who had hearing problems or could not move around much and we felt that we had not designed a session that was friendly for them. A lot to be grateful for but this would not have been possible with out Neelima Reddy which will now transform 4 Girls lives and more importantly have created HOPE for so many more and INSPIRATION for the team actively engaged to bring the change. #Savethechildfoundation #savethechildnepal #ProjectBaala @connectdenfilms

The Save the Child Foundation team traveled across Bhotang, Larke, and Kathmandu in Nepal, distributing 1,000 Baala Pads and essential school supplies to students in need. This initiative aimed to support menstrual hygiene awareness and education accessibility for underprivileged children. Through partnerships and community engagement, we continue to empower young girls and promote education for all. #SaveTheChild #SaveTheChildNepal #ProjectBaala #MenstrualHygiene #GirlsEducation #Changemakers2030

The Save the Child US Team, Changemakers2030 Youth Volunteers, Project Baala, and Save the Child Nepal joined forces for an incredible two-week initiative! Together, they distributed over 2,000 Baala Pads and essential school supplies to children in need, ensuring better menstrual hygiene, education, and empowerment. This collaboration highlights the power of youth-led activism and global partnerships in making a real difference. Thank you to everyone involved for being a part of this movement for period dignity and education for all! 📌 #SaveTheChild #Changemakers2030 #ProjectBaala #MenstrualHygiene #EducationForAll #EndingPeriodPoverty