May 2025
Namaste everyone,
Today, I want to share my reflections and experiences from the past six months of being part of the WAWCAS Program’s PSRP (Participatory Self-Review Program). I recently completed my first six-month review form, and this blog is a reflection of the journey I have taken so far.
When I first became a member of the WAWCAS Group, Sunita explained to me that the PSRP is a tool used to assess personal growth and change and is conducted twice — once after six months and again after completing one year. During my initial days in the group, she asked me several questions related to self-management, gender-based violence, mutual development, safe motherhood, sanitation, discipline, child rights and development, nutrition, women’s rights, and HIV/AIDS. At that time, I simply answered based on what I was experiencing and practicing in my daily life.
Now, six months later, I am filling out the PSRP form again, and I feel a deep sense of change within myself. Being a part of the WAWCAS Program has brought many meaningful transformations in my life.
During these trainings, I learned many valuable lessons. Even after that, through regular group discussions, home visits, and field monitoring, I have been learning continuously. Before joining the WAWCAS Group, many things in life felt complicated and overwhelming. Now, those same tasks feel normal and manageable. Earlier, I was someone who kept my emotions bottled up and didn’t feel comfortable expressing myself. But now, I can openly share my thoughts and feelings during discussions.
Realizing the Need to Raise My Voice
In the past, I would silently endure violence or unfair treatment. Even when someone wronged me, I didn’t feel empowered to speak up. But now, I’ve realized the importance of raising my voice. The more we tolerate silently, the more others take advantage. I’ve understood that if I face injustice or witness it happening to others, I must speak up or extend my help.
Change in My Perspective on Gender Equality
Regarding mutual development, earlier in my family, men and boys would receive more attention — even when it came to food. Women were served less or sometimes after everyone else. Now, I ensure that vegetables are cooked properly and served equally to all. I don’t allow my child to eat junk food anymore, and I include more green leafy vegetables in our meals.
Awareness About Women’s Rights
Before joining the WAWCAS group, I had little knowledge of women’s rights. It was not something we ever discussed. But now, I understand that it’s important to know and practice our rights, and also to help others become aware. Whether it’s about registering a marriage or obtaining citizenship, I’ve realized the importance of taking initiative for such matters.
Breaking the Silence Around HIV/AIDS
Before joining WAWCAS, I never spoke about or had any knowledge of HIV/AIDS. It felt like a distant and taboo topic. But now, I’ve gained awareness about this illness, its prevention, and how to approach it without stigma. I can now discuss HIV/AIDS openly and understand that if someone is infected, they still deserve to be treated with respect and kindness.
Equal Partnership in Household Responsibilities
I used to believe that household work was solely the responsibility of women, and men shouldn’t be involved. But now, I see that both men and women should work together, sharing tasks equally. Whether it’s making decisions or managing household chores, equal participation brings harmony and mutual respect.
Understanding Safe Motherhood
Previously, I used to think that pregnancy and childbirth were just normal phases in a woman’s life. But through WAWCAS, I’ve come to understand how critical and sensitive these stages are. Without proper care, both the mother and child can face life-threatening risks. Now, I pay much more attention to safe practices and also share this information with other women.
Importance of Cleanliness and Hygiene
Before, I didn’t pay much attention to cleanliness. Sometimes, I would neglect the hygiene of myself, my children, or the house. But now, after joining the group, I make cleanliness a priority. I wash regularly, keep my house clean, store drinking water safely, and teach my children about hygiene too.
Child Rights and Equal Treatment
In the past, there was a clear difference in how boys and girls were treated in my home. Sons were given more importance, and daughters were often ignored or made to wait. Now, I’ve completely stopped such discrimination. I’ve realized that boys and girls are equal and should be treated with equal love, care, and respect.
Nutrition and Healthy Eating Habits
Before, I didn’t give much thought to the nutritional value of food. But now, I make sure to include a variety of vegetables in our meals. I prepare them properly and ensure my family gets balanced nutrition. I’ve started avoiding junk food altogether, especially for my children.
Conclusion: A Journey of Growth and Empowerment
This nine-month journey with the WAWCAS Program and PSRP has been incredibly transformative for me. I have grown not only in knowledge but also in confidence. I feel stronger, more aware, and more capable of supporting myself and others in my community.
I now believe that change begins with awareness, and once we are aware, we must take action — not just for ourselves but for others too. I feel proud to be part of the WAWCAS Group and look forward to continuing this journey of learning, sharing, and growing together.
With gratitude,
Dudh Kumari Gurung