KATHMANDU – In a time marked by political turbulence and growing disillusionment, Project Abhaya hosted a bold gathering of hope and innovation: Abhaya Dialogue: Redefining Power and Progress, in partnership with RB Diamond Jewellers, at the Nepal Tourism Board.
From 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM, this full-day forum brought together 128 participants — 72 women and 58 men — from 49 districts across all seven provinces. It wasn’t just an event; it was a declaration that power must be reimagined.
The gathering began with an impactful keynote by Hon. Sumana Shrestha, who offered a powerful reminder: “Leadership is not a title. It is a commitment to act when it’s easier to stay silent.”
Her words served both as an invitation and a challenge to the young audience — to redefine power not as domination, but as dedication; not as status, but as service.
Moderated by Kriti Adhikari, the keynote conversation sparked reflections on inclusion, empathy, and courage as the new currencies of leadership. It was a call to shift from hierarchical models of control to collaborative frameworks of co-creation.
A riveting panel followed, moderated by Saugat Gautam, with speakers Hon. Bimala Rai Paudyal, Manushi Bhattarai, and Pukar Malla.
They explored the intersections of policy, protest, and participation, posing the critical question: “Can a democracy thrive when its margins are still unheard?” Their insights emphasized that young people are not merely future leaders — they are today’s catalysts for justice and reform.
Abdus Miya delivered a compelling talk on inclusive governance, emphasizing the need for systemic change. “Until the most excluded voices are at the table — not as guests, but as architects — progress will remain incomplete,” he said.
His message grounded the day’s dialogue in the realities of marginalized communities, often overlooked in the rush for development.
The final session, a dynamic youth debate titled “Who Holds the Power?”, sparked honest provocation and critical inquiry. Speakers Yajaswi Rai, Santosh Pandey, Prasuj Mainali, and Jasmine Ojha, moderated by Reina Basnet, didn’t shy away from uncomfortable truths.
They examined the anatomy of power — political, personal, and ideological — and challenged the audience to reconsider where true power resides. “Is power held by systems, or does it live in stories that refuse to be erased?” one speaker asked, leaving the room in contemplative silence.
Ishika Panta, Founder/Chairperson of Project Abhaya, concluded the day with a powerful message: “When we trust young people with leadership, we don’t just prepare them for the future — we empower them to transform the present.” Nishtha Shrestha, Executive Member of Project Abhaya, added: “This dialogue isn’t an end. It’s a spark. We’re just beginning to ask the right questions — and we won’t stop until every voice finds its place in the conversation.”
This event wasn’t just a program; it was a movement in progress — a testament to the idea that in unity, conversation, and courageous dissent, we find the blueprint for a more just and inclusive future.
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