My name is Sugandha, and I’m 15 years old from Samsi Rural Municipality-7, Mahottari. My family struggles with daily wage labor and farming, and because of that, I had to drop out of school to help out. Even though I was a top student, I couldn’t keep up with my studies.

One day, I heard about the USAID Adolescent Reproductive Health (ARH) program from a friend. She told me about a session on “Aspirations and Dreams,” and I decided to check it out. But when I joined, I felt embarrassed because I struggled with reading and writing. I was afraid the other girls would make fun of me, so I stopped going.

The ARH facilitator noticed I wasn’t coming anymore and came to visit me. After talking with me and my parents, she helped me see how important the program could be for my future. I decided to give it another shot.

“I felt scared and didn’t want to be judged, so I stopped attending. The program could really help me, so I returned and kept learning. Now I’m not afraid to speak up, and I’m proud of how far I’ve come. The program showed me that I can dream big and make those dreams a reality.”

As I kept attending, I learned more about education, health, and the dangers of child marriage. My confidence grew, and I re-enrolled in school, joining Grade 5. I also started taking on leadership roles during the sessions.

At the graduation ceremony, I felt so proud. Thanks to the ARH program, I now believe in myself and have the tools to follow my dreams.

Sugandha’s story shows how the ARH program helped her find the strength to overcome challenges and build a brighter future.