Exploring My First International Workshop: Learnings from the South Asia Youth Summit

My name is Manisa Kumari Mahato (Panjiyar), and I come from the beautiful place of Nepal, “Chitwan Madi”. I am a student, an entrepreneur and an active member of Madi Youth Network. Our network works in partnership with different organizations, including CWISH, which implements numerous programs and campaigns focused on children, women and climate change.

Today, I am excited to share my learnings and experiences, I gained from the South Asia Youth Summit, which took place in Kolkata, India, from November 11th to 15th. I was truly honored to be a part of this summit organized by "TDH". Firstly, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to both “CWISH” and “TDH” for providing me with the incredible opportunity to represent “CWISH” as a youth representative. I had the honor of being one of four youth representatives from Nepal, alongside youth from various countries across South Asia.

On 11^th November, we arrived in Kolkata, India, late at night. The following day, we explored some of Kolkata’s major landmarks, including the Mother Teresa House, Howrah Bridge, Flower Market, Victoria Memorial and St. Paul’s Cathedral. It was an amazing and adventurous experience, especially as it was my first international trip. In the evening, all the participants gathered at the Floatel for a welcome program, organized jointly by the West Bengal Youth Network and TDH/NEWS. We were warmly welcomed with a vibrant dance performance and a drama highlighting SDGs 5 and 13.

Throughout the two-day program, we participated in various sessions addressing climate and biodiversity issues. As part of our preparation, the four youth representatives from Nepal shared our perspectives on the questions posed during the sessions.

On November 14th, we visited Chaital, where mangrove regeneration projects are taking place, which was both enlightening and inspiring. The next day, we returned to Nepal with valuable knowledge, experiences and memories. My time in Kolkata was truly life-changing, and I’m grateful to have participated in such an impactful event. It provided an opportunity to share Nepal's challenges and best practices. One of the most striking things I learned was about the political restrictions on activism in the Philippines and the coastal and marine ecosystem issues they face. I also learned about agro-fishing and mangrove planting. Meeting youth from around the world broadened my perspectives and enhanced my communication skills and networking.

This experience has been incredibly rewarding and has had a significant impact on my personal and professional growth. Moving forward, I plan to organize campaigns and programs in my community, drawing on the lessons and experiences I gained from the summit. Finally, I would like to encourage the organizers to continue hosting such workshops, creating more opportunities for youth from different countries to connect and generate impactful platforms for change.