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As a young boy from Mahendranagar, Kanchanpur in Sudurpaschim province, Nepal, I never thought I would one day attend an international event like COP29. My journey has been filled with hard work, determination, and a desire to make a difference in addressing climate change, even from a local level.

Currently, I am an undergraduate student of Forestry at Agriculture and Forestry University, Hetauda, and I lead a youth network called Nepalese Youth for Climate Action (NYCA), Hetauda. Over the past three years, I have worked on several climate-related activities, including school campaigns, community awareness programs, plantation drives, cycle rallies, climate marches; hosted conferences on climate change; and led unique projects like trading plastic for plants. These actions were my way of contributing to climate action, but I always wondered what it would be like to join a global platform like COP.

A big moment in my journey was when I got the chance to be part of the organizing team for the Bagmati Province Youth Summit, 2081. This experience taught me the importance of planning and working smartly, which helped me grow both personally and professionally. My mentor, Nishchal Baniya, founder of Bagmati UNESCO Club, was a key part of this transformation. Under his guidance, I was offered the role of Vice President of Bagmati UNESCO Club, which gave me more opportunities to develop leadership and advocacy skills.

With his support and the help of the Youth Council in Action for Nation, I earned a badge to attend COP 29 held in Baku, Azerbaijan. But arranging the money for the trip was a big challenge. Coming from a middle-class family, it seemed nearly impossible to fund an international trip. Though my local and provincial governments gave me good wishes, they couldn’t provide financial help. In the end, my parents stood by me and encouraged me to go, even though it was a big expense for them.

Going to COP 29 alone was both exciting and nerve-wracking. The event was huge, and the busy atmosphere made me feel out of place at first. Luckily, I met my friends Aakriti Dotel, Parima Limbu, and other members of Nepalese Youth for Climate Action (NYCA) Kathmandu, which gave me some comfort. Our senior, Avishek Shrestha (Program Coordinator of DBI), guided us on what to do and helped us understand why we were there.

One of the things I noticed at COP 29 was the difference in opportunities. Maybe I don’t know the full picture, but it felt like people working at the grassroots level often don’t get access to these international platforms. On the other hand, people from urban areas like Kathmandu seem to have more chances to join such events.

This made me think about how important it is to create fair opportunities for everyone, no matter where they are from. Everyone who works for climate action deserves a chance to share their work, learn more, and connect with others.

Grassroots youth like me need to attend COP29 to bring local perspectives to global discussions, learn from experts, and build connections. This empowers us to return home and inspire our communities towards sustainable action. This creates a more equitable climate movement that truly reflects the diversity of those impacted by climate change and empowers all voices to be heard.

I was inspired by the youth from various countries. They were so passionate and focused on making real changes in the fight against climate change. The discussions, exhibitions, and meetings I attended gave me valuable ideas and lessons that I can now use in my own community.

Attending COP29 wasn’t just an event for me—it was more of an investment in my growth and learning. It has made me more committed to climate action and helped me see the bigger story of the global climate movement. I am now more determined to use my knowledge to help my community and push for equal opportunities for everyone in this field.

My experience at COP29 has taught me that impactful climate advocacy doesn't depend solely on location or resources. It's about unwavering self-belief, staying committed to your environmental goals, and seeking guidance from experienced mentors. I hope my journey inspires other young people to champion climate action, regardless of their background. By embracing local solutions and connecting with global movements, we can all contribute to a more sustainable future.

Abhishek Chand

Undergrad student

Agriculture and Forestry University, Hetauda

In Nepal, the media plays a pivotal role in shaping society’s values, yet it often falls into the trap of limiting women to outdated, restrictive stereotypes. From TV shows to advertisements, women are frequently shown in narrow roles—either as devoted mothers, obedient daughters-in-law, or passive figures whose worth is defined by their appearance. These portrayals not only misrepresent the diverse reality of women’s lives but also reinforce the harmful idea that women’s place is limited to the home or that they are secondary to men.

These stereotypes have a profound impact. In a country where women are proving their mettle every day in education, business, and leadership, the media still often portrays them as silent supporters or objects of desire. This does a disservice to women who are challenging norms, pushing boundaries, and contributing to society in meaningful ways. It also sends a dangerous message to young girls, telling them that their value is tied only to their looks or their roles as caregivers, not their abilities or ambitions.

The problem isn’t just about what’s shown—it’s about what’s not shown. Women are rarely depicted as leaders in business, politics, or innovation. Their success stories are buried, while the same tired clichés are recycled in the media. When women are consistently shown as weak or dependent, it’s no wonder that they continue to face resistance in real-life leadership positions.

It’s time for change. The media needs to reflect the full spectrum of women’s lives—women as professionals, as leaders, as entrepreneurs, and as changemakers. It needs to portray women as capable, strong, and in control of their own destinies. This requires moving away from outdated narratives that restrict women’s potential and embracing stories that celebrate women’s contributions to society, no matter their role.

As consumers, we must hold the media accountable. By supporting content that portrays women as complex and multifaceted individuals, we send a message that the media needs to evolve. Women are breaking barriers every day, and it’s time for the media to reflect that progress, not hinder it.

The time has come to dismantle the stereotypes that hold women back. The media can be a powerful tool for change, but only if it chooses to portray women as the leaders, innovators, and visionaries they truly are.

Parusha Khadka

Undergrad student

St Xavier’s College, Maitighar

It’s been nine years we haven’t met. 

I remember the fights when we were eight. 

The moments with you were all great. 

Without you, every single day I am pissed. 

I want to meet and tell you what I missed. 

On that day I’ll be very blissed. 

When I see those besties you come to my brain. 

In my journey you were titled as “main”. 

I wonder will I get to see you ever again? 

What if you have already forgotten me? Oh no! 

In my heart a mixed feeling will overflow. 

Then I will tell myself I have to get up and grow. 

Shakshi Ojha

Grade XI

St Xavier’s College, Maitighar

It’s difficult for me to even decide, 

Would conversations with you guys be right? 

Are my words hurting all of you? 

Was I ever a part of the crew? 

Isn’t it fair to wonder if I’m not worthy? 

Should I change or remain sturdy? 

Are we really near our ends? 

Don’t I even deserve some friends? 

Is there any way we all could start again? 

Or better be busy with our previous game? 

Were we all in fact at any time friends? 

Or just some random acquaintances? 

Shakshi Ojha

Grade XI

St Xavier’s College, Maitighar