Su’s, a 15-year-old student Grade 9 student, comes from a modest farming family in a remote rural community of Nepal. Her father depends primarily on agriculture for the family’s livelihood. She has one elder brother and one elder sister.
At a very young age, Su experienced a heart breaking tragedy that deeply affected her childhood. While she was studying in Grade 4, her mother lost her life after falling from a cliff while collecting grass in the forest. Despite this emotional loss and ongoing economic challenges, Su remained determined to continue her education and pursue her dreams. Her father has remarried, her sister is married, and her elder brother remains unmarried.
Despite facing personal and social challenges, she continued her education with resilience and determination. She dreams of becoming a dedicated teacher who can contribute to positive social change through education and awareness.
Su’s participated in the Girls’ Empowerment Program (GEP) implemented by PHASE, which became a significant turning point in her life. Through the workshop sessions, she gained knowledge and awareness about important social issues such as child marriage, human trafficking, gender-based violence, domestic violence, bullying, and harassment. More importantly, the program helped her develop confidence, communication skills, and the courage to speak up for her rights and the rights of others.
Following her participation in the GEP, noticeable positive changes were observed in her confidence, behaviour, and level of participation in school activities. Previously shy and reserved, Su gradually became more active and engaged, particularly in extracurricular activities organized at her school.
A major milestone in her journey came on 26 December 2025, when her school organized a speech competition on the topic “The Role of Students in Reducing Child Marriage.” Competing among 18 participants, Su secured first position. Her achievement reflected not only her growing confidence and leadership abilities but also her strong understanding of critical social issues affecting girls and adolescents in rural communities.
Today, Su is determined to raise awareness against harmful social practices and advocate for the rights of girls and women in her community. She strongly believes that education is one of the most powerful tools for social transformation. Her long-term goal is to become a qualified and compassionate teacher who can continue creating awareness against child marriage, violence, and discrimination at both school and community levels.
Su’s story demonstrates the transformative impact of empowerment, education, and opportunity. With proper guidance and support, girls from remote and disadvantaged communities can become confident leaders and agents of positive change in society.
Reflecting on her experience, Su shares:
“I would like to express my sincere thanks to PHASE Nepal for giving me the opportunity to participate in the GEP workshop. I am very grateful for the learning, knowledge, and exposure I received through this program. This opportunity has helped me improve my skills and confidence, and I truly appreciate the support and trust provided to me.”
The best way to support more young women like Su is to make a regular donation to PHASE Worldwide.
If you would like to support the work of PHASE Worldwide and help us to continue empowering people living in isolated regions of Nepal the best way to do so is through regular giving. Even the smallest amount a month can make a huge difference. As a regular supporter you will receive exclusive updates and will become part of the PHASE family. You can set up your regular gift easily and securely online.
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