BY: RAHIMAT
In many communities, girls are told that leadership is not for them. We are expected to stay at home, do household work, and prepare for marriage instead of following our dreams. Growing up in a Muslim Madhesi society, I often saw these expectations around me. But I always believed that girls are not only the future, we are also the leaders of today.
My journey as a girl leader began in Class 9 when I was elected as the President of my local Child Club through a democratic process. That moment was more than just an election, it was proof that a girl could take responsibility and lead. It was my first step into leadership, and it gave me confidence to speak up for myself and for other girls in my community.
Later, I became the Secretary of the District Child Club Network and then the Vice Secretary of the National Adolescent Girls’ Network. These roles gave me the opportunity to represent the voices of many girls, not just from my area but from across Nepal. I learned how important it is for girls to raise issues like education, child marriage, safety, and menstrual health because these are the realities we live everyday.
One of my most memorable experiences was participating in a Mock Youth Parliament as Sabha Mukh (Speaker of the House). Sitting in that chair, leading discussions, and making decisions was not just symbolic, it was powerful. It showed that girls, too, belong in spaces of governance and decision-making. I also had the chance to take over the role of my municipality’s President and even the CEO of a media house for a day. These moments challenged the mindset of many people who believed that leadership is only for men.
Now, as a Sarathi of Visible Impact Batch 8, my focus is on menstrual health and hygiene. Talking about periods in schools is not just about health it is about dignity, equality, and empowerment for girls. Every time I speak to students about breaking taboos around menstruation, I feel that I am continuing the journey I started years ago: creating space for girls to live and lead freely.
I believe that girls’ leadership matters because when girls lead, they bring fresh ideas, lived experiences, and unique perspectives. Girls know the challenges they face, and when they take leadership, they can work to solve them. Most importantly, when one girl leads, she inspires many others to follow.
Every role I have taken, from the Child Club to the Adolescent Girls’ Network to being a Sarathi has been more than just a title. It has been a journey of proving that girls can lead, inspire, and create change in society. Investing in girls’ leadership is not just about equality, it is about building stronger families, communities, and futures.