September 2024
Greetings to all!
I would like to warmly welcome you to this final chapter of my journey. Time indeed has its own rhythm, and today, I am convinced of that. It feels like only yesterday Sima came to our village, introducing us to trainings and meetings under the WAWCAS Program. However, time waits for no one. Looking back at these past 16 months, I feel immense joy and pride. My life 16 months ago and today is incomparable. I find myself at a loss for words to express my gratitude to Slisha, an organization that brought light into the dimming aspects of my life.
When I compare my past self with who I am today, I see tremendous personal and professional transformation! I used to work from morning till evening, but despite all my hard work, there was no significant income, and I constantly faced shortages. But once I joined the WAWCAS Program, it opened my eyes. I now dedicate my time to my business, which has allowed me to sustain myself and my family. Becoming self-reliant has not only boosted my self-confidence but has also changed the way society perceives me. The WAWCAS Program has brought happiness not just to me but to my family as well. The practical knowledge I gained from the 16 months period training has positively impacted my husband and children too. Now, I even envision my children becoming responsible citizens of this country. Every day, I share my feelings with my husband and children, and they, in turn, share their experiences with me.
Through the WAWCAS Program, I started a goat-rearing business. The knowledge I acquired over this past year has been truly educational and beneficial. The training sessions were excellent, and I enjoyed the meetings, especially talking openly with Sima. I used to share all my problems with her, and she always explained things so clearly and patiently. Holding onto the thread of WAWCAS, I’ve seen many changes within myself. Over the course of the year, I also participated in PCA*, SWOT*, and PSRP* exercises, which helped me identify my weaknesses and improve them. One of the most important lessons was learning to keep a record of daily expenses and income and reviewing them regularly. Life presents everyone with challenges, and trying to escape from problems will never solve them. I’ve realized that every day brings new learning experiences, and as long as there’s a will to learn, age does not matter.
I’ve already planned to expand my goat-rearing business over the next three years and start poultry farming as well. My husband has promised to support me in fulfilling this dream. One day, I will definitely become a successful person in society. There was a time when people would say, “What’s the use of studying if you can’t even put food on the table?” Today, I’ve become an exemplary businesswoman in my community, and I’ve also been given the opportunity to serve as a member of the working committee of WAWCAS in Tanahun, Area No. 8. This has further boosted my self-confidence. I’ve realized that before bringing about change in others, one must first change oneself. I’ve stopped being afraid to express my thoughts because if you can’t voice your opinions, you can’t teach what you know to others.
The WAWCAS Program has taught me so much. Becoming a self-reliant and capable woman is truly an achievement. Now, I dream of my children becoming self-reliant as well. I’ve decided that I won’t marry off my children until they can stand on their own feet. I am truly grateful to the WAWCAS Program for guiding me out of the darkness and toward the light. I’d also like to thank Sima, who has supported and advised me throughout. I will never forget this 16-month journey with WAWCAS. Thank you!
Notes: PCA; Pocket Chart Analysis, SWOT; Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats, and PSRP; Participatory Self-Review Program.
Dear Readers,
First of all, I would like to thank you all for reading about Bal Kumari’s journey. I would especially like to thank Balkumari. I feel very happy every time I get to talk with her and hear her experiences. In just 16 months period, she has made such remarkable progress and has become a role model for others. I wish her continued success in her professional and family life. I hope all the readers found joy in reading Balkumari’s blog. Thank you so much!
Sincerely,
Sima Kunwar
LPL, Tanahun