My First World Social Forum
Kira, 4th year. International Studies and Modern Languages
Host country: Nepal
Canadian NGO: Alternatives Canada
Local NGO: NGO Federation of Nepal
As an International Studies student, I am certain this is an experience I will cherish forever – I had the incredible opportunity to help organize and participate in this year’s edition of the World Social Forum in Kathmandu. This event is an international mobilization of activists, NGOs and CSOs from around the world. For me, the most valuable part of any experience will always be the people, and there were so many amazing people that I got the chance to meet and exchange with. From Nepali youth creating opportunities for themselves and their communities, to an inspiring ecofeminist activist from Indonesia to activists from around the world who are passionate about climate justice, I am so grateful to be able to connect with people who are passionate about justice, action and resistance.
The WSF also hosted this year’s edition of the Intercontinental Youth Forum – I had the opportunity to be a panelist in a discussion about Labour Migration. I got the chance to learn about how global systems of oppression are interconnected, and how small changes on a local level can completely transform people’s lives for the better. I learned how to ask powerful questions, take initiative, and to be curious and open-minded about issues that may be uncomfortable for me, as a Canadian citizen with a lot of privilege.
I was also grateful to have seen the organization process of the Forum. Befriending the Nepal Organizing Committee has given me the chance to see the work that goes into organizing an international event. This opportunity has also facilitated my learning in many ways. Firstly, being immersed in a whole new language has pushed me to put in an extra effort to integrate within this new country. Also, picking up on cultural differences has made me a more observant person, aware of individual sensitivities and social norms in new environments – for example, the use of honorifics in Nepali office culture is something I was not used to in Canada, but I was able to quickly adapt to it. People notice and appreciate when a foreigner makes efforts to learn about their culture. Moreover, I’ve had the chance to work in teams many times, and with the diversity of people I’ve been able to meet, I’ve been exposed to many new perspectives and fresh ideas. I’ll be going back to Canada with a brand-new unique skillset that I’ve developed in my time here in Nepal.