Prekshya's mission for equal rights
Prekshya's vision for the future is clear. She wants to be a social activist, advocating for the rights and entitlements of children throughout her life. "I believe that by empowering children and changing societal mentalities, they can create a child-friendly nation where every child has the opportunity to thrive. I want to be the voice of every child," she declares with passion.
Prekshya has become a beacon of hope and resilience at just 17 years old. Her journey is one of overcoming societal challenges and striving for a brighter future, not just for herself but for all the girls and women in her community. From the vibrant community of Kirtipur, Prekshya's family of five is her world. They live in a place where the environment is serene, but the societal norms are often harsh, especially towards women and girls. "In comparison to males, it is quite difficult for women and girls," she explains. The judgmental attitudes and lack of support from families and society at large have long hindered the dreams and ambitions of many young girls like her.
Despite these challenges, Prekshya's spirit remains unbroken. She recalls the impact of limited opportunities on the mental health of women and girls in her community. "Their dreams and ambitions are often left behind," she says, with sadness. The cultural beliefs and traditions of their male-dominated society impose special restrictions on women, restraining their voices and potential.
At the age of 12, she joined World Vision as a Registered Child (RC), a turning point that opened a world of possibilities for her. Through various life skills training, self-defence classes, and public speaking workshops, she began to discover her own strengths and capabilities. She joined the local and municipal-level child clubs, eventually becoming the president and showcasing her leadership skills. “After being involved in a child club, my self-confidence has built up, and I am able to speak up for myself and others," she exclaims. Her involvement with World Vision didn't stop there. As a team leader for the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) report, she gained a deeper understanding of the situation of children in Nepal and became a helping hand in advocating for their rights. In 2023, she had the opportunity to contribute to the UNCRC Child Education Report, a proof to her growing influence and commitment to making a difference.
Prekshya's journey has been one of continuous learning and empowerment. She realized the importance of speaking out against injustices and advocating for change. If given the chance to change one thing in her community, she says she would create an equitable society where there is no discrimination based on caste, class, or gender and where everyone can live happily. The sponsorship programme has played a crucial role in her development by providing educational materials and various training opportunities that have helped her build self-confidence and become a voice for the unheard. Through these programmes, she has had the opportunity to participate in national and international platforms, including the European Week of Girls for Action, where she spoke about children's rights at the European Parliament.
