Hi! I'm Merina, a Nepali student based in Hong Kong. I visited Life Vision Academy (LVA) in 2017 with the Tracing Nepal team and again by myself in 2018.
Children and Youth First (CYF) is a Nepal-based NGO founded in 2009 and the sole funder of LVA. CYF supports the education, housing, and meals of 62 children (ages 6-20) coming from marginalised backgrounds in Nepal. Including the mothers of the children and staff members, there are 72 people in total.
LVA prides itself on its "out of the box" curriculum, where creativity, exploration, and innovation are at the forefront of their pedagogy. During both of my visits to LVA, the students took me on nature walks, where I got to learn about many types of birds and plants. Social inclusion and sustainability are prioritised aspects of learning at LVA, and the students learn through unique ways, including music, art, and photography.
2017 was a pivotal year for me and although my stay at LVA was only 5 days long, it left a lasting impact. As I turn 22 this year and reflect on my growth the past 3 years, I am overwhelmed with gratitude towards every individual that gave me a reason to continue living.
I thank the brothers and sisters from CYF for their love for each other, for nature, and for the world. I thank them for their hope in humanity. I thank them for showing me the joy of singing and dancing, the wonders in watermelon plant leaves and flower crowns, and most of all, the importance of community.
I celebrate my 22nd this month because of people like the CYF family, that showed me the beauty and joy that is life.
With the pandemic this year and me being in Hong Kong, this is the best way I can think of expressing my gratitude and giving back. Please contribute what you are able to give this holiday season- any amount helps!
If you're unable to contribute financially, please help share this page AND share about CYF with your network. Thank you! x
------------------------------------------------
FAQ:
What will the funds be used for?
The funds will allow CYF to get 2 bee hives for the school; they will have their own honey and the beeswax will serve many purposes, while being environmentally-friendly and sustainable. Any remaining amount will go towards milk support for the younger children.
For more information on LVA's monthly food costs, visit http://cyfnepal.org/cyf-blog/our-food-fund.
When and how will the money be transferred?
The campaign will end on 25 December 2020 and the money will be transferred to CYF by 31 December 2020 via PayPal.
Where can I learn more about CYF?
For more information on CYF Nepal, please visit http://cyfnepal.org.
