Introduction
In a world where children are often unheard and overlooked, working in child protection is not just a responsibility—it’s a calling. During my recent internship in Volunteers Initiative Nepal, I had the opportunity to work closely with foreign volunteers across different schools, focusing on empowering children through formation of children club soft life skills and raising awareness about their rights.
This journey was more than an internship. It was a powerful learning experience that challenged me, inspired me, and deepened my commitment to creating safe and nurturing environments for children.
Collaborating Beyond Borders
One of the most rewarding aspects of this experience was working with a team of passionate foreign volunteers. Coming from diverse cultural and educational backgrounds, each person brought a unique approach to child protection. Despite language and cultural differences, we quickly built a strong sense of unity and shared purpose. It was a beautiful example of how collaboration across borders can amplify impact.
Creating Safe, Engaging Learning Spaces
Our mission took us into different schools in Tarkeshwor, where we led interactive sessions that helped children develop essential soft life skills. These included:
- Public Speaking & Communication: Encouraging children to express themselves confidently in front of others.
- Leadership & Decision-Making: Helping them recognize their potential to lead and make responsible choices.
- Trust Building & Friendship: Strengthening their interpersonal skills and teaching the value of supportive relationships.
- Bullying Awareness Workshops: Educating children on what bullying looks like, how to respond, and how to support peers in need.
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We combined these lessons with practical activities that made learning fun and memorable. Origami-making, games, and music sessions brought creativity and joy into the classrooms, while also building teamwork, focus, and emotional expression.
Teaching Child Rights in a Relatable Way
Another key focus of our work was spreading awareness about child rights—from the right to education and protection to the right to be heard and participate. Many children were learning about these rights for the first time. Through art, storytelling, and open discussions, we helped them understand not just what their rights are, but why they matter.
It was deeply rewarding to see them begin to ask thoughtful questions, share their feelings, and even advocate for their peers. These conversations planted the seeds of self-awareness and agency that can grow far beyond the classroom.
Wall Magazine: A Voice for the Students
One of the highlights of our internship was helping students create and publish a wall magazine. This became a platform where they could express their thoughts, creativity, and perspectives through drawings, stories, poems, and messages.
The wall magazine was not just an artistic display—it was a symbol of voice and visibility. It gave children a sense of ownership and pride, and encouraged them to speak out on issues that matter to them. It was beautiful to see their ideas come to life on paper and on school walls, making their learning more permanent and powerful.
Overcoming Challenges, Embracing Growth
Like any meaningful work, there were challenges. We faced limitations in resources, varying comprehension levels, and the need to be culturally sensitive at all times. But these hurdles taught us patience, adaptability, and the importance of empathy in every interaction.
Every activity, every moment of connection reminded us why this work is so important—and how even small efforts can lead to big changes.
A Journey That Changed Me
This internship didn’t just shape my professional goals—it changed me on a personal level. I saw firsthand the resilience, creativity, and potential in every child we worked with. I also learned from the passion and dedication of the volunteers beside me, and from the warm, welcoming communities we were privileged to serve.
Looking back, this internship was more than just professional development—it was a journey of personal growth. It reaffirmed my passion for working with children and strengthened my commitment to advocating for their rights. The smiles, curiosity, and courage of the children in Tarkeshwor will stay with me forever.
I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of this initiative and for the incredible team that made it possible. As I move forward in my career, I carry with me the hope that our efforts planted seeds of confidence and awareness in the hearts of the children we worked with—and that those seeds will continue to grow. I leave this experience with a heart full of gratitude, lifelong memories, and a deeper sense of purpose. The seeds we planted in Tarkeshwor—in the form of confidence, knowledge, creativity, and care—are sure to grow in powerful, beautiful ways.
By: Intern Monsoon Roka
YWC ESC 2 Child Protection
Tarkeshwar – 3, Kathmandu, Nepal