When Kripa Ale (25) packed her bags in Nepal and headed for a completely new continent, her goal was simple: she wanted to become more confident. Ten months later, she returned home to Kathmandu with an entirely new sense of self-worth, a deep commitment to gender equality, and a practical toolkit for creating real change. Moving across the globe through the Act Now exchange program at Hald International School did not just take her to a new country, it reshaped her perspectives.
Stepping out of the comfort zone
-Before ActNow, I was less confident in every place, like churches and offices, Kripa reflects.
Stepping into a totally foreign environment forced her out of her comfort zone. She learned practical life skills like knitting, swimming, and cycling, while also discovering her voice through public speaking and presenting.
– I learned how to become confident, how to talk to people, and how to make a good presentation. How you have to be confident in yourself so that you can also inspire other people, she shares.
WHAT IS ACT NOW?
The Act Now project is a collaboration project between civil society organizations in four countries, aiming to strengthen youth participation in civil society and local communities, while also supporting young changemakers to participate in the fight against poverty and injustice. Act Now enables youth participants with leadership skills through learning of engaging, organizing and leading. While mainly focusing on youth, the program also helps participating organizations in improving their work on youth participation.
A fresh perspective on equality and tradition
Crossing continents also exposed her to entirely new societal structures, radically shifting how she viewed the world and her place in it. Growing up in a society shaped by traditions, experiencing life in Norway opened her eyes to new possibilities regarding social equality and women's rights.
– My whole life, I knew that my last name meant something. So that was also the perspective that changed me, that caste doesn't matter, Kripa explains.
She was equally impacted by the freedom and safety women experienced daily. Where others would say feminism is overrated, Kripa would stand up for feminism and say it mattered.
– I think what I take from the exchange is that everyone really matters, and I think in Nepal it should also be the same: that everyone matters, also the girls and women. I really want to do something for women, especially because they do not have as much freedom, she emphasizes.
Youth exchange beyond personal growth
While the personal growth of participants is evident, the impact of youth exchange reaches far beyond individual transformation. When young people return home with new skills, global awareness, and a stronger sense of purpose, they bring those fresh perspectives directly back into their workplaces and local communities.
– We see and learn what happens in the world, what is right and wrong and how to differentiate it. I think that also will benefit the sending organisation, Kripa explains.
Turning new energy into action
When Kripa returned to her job at SAHAS Nepal, the transformation was undeniable. Her friends and colleagues immediately noticed her new energy and independence.
– I should not think I am less even though it's a patriarchal system in Nepal, Kripa states.
Channeling her fresh perspectives into direct action, she designed and launched a brand-new fundraising initiative in Rolpa. Her project brings young people together to craft and sell bracelets at local festivals, using the proceeds to buy essential school supplies and books for local youth.
A life-changing journey
– Youth exchange has changed my life because I was not like this before, she says.
For Kripa, stepping into the unknown on a new continent turned out to be a powerful life-changing journey.
– I would definitely encourage others to go for it because it will change you and your perspective. You can become a better version of yourself and know yourself more.