Unveiling Rights: A Youth’s Struggle for Inclusion

In the heart of Tapagaon, nestled within the embrace of Tading Block in Samtse district, resides Melham Doya, a spirited young woman of 19 years. Her presence exudes the essence of her indigenous heritage, weaving a tapestry of humility and profound cultural richness. Having recently completed her 12th grade, she opted to remain in the village, cherishing its essence and embracing its traditions.

A watershed moment unfolded in Melham’s life when she attended a training session on Social Auditing and the legal rights of youth. Initially shy and reticent, this was her maiden voyage into such discourse. Encountering an opportunity, she spoke earnestly about the lack of road connectivity, a plight faced by two households in her community. “Why hasn’t road support reached my parents’ home?” she questioned the Block head and administration. In response, Ms. Leki Zangmo, Tshogpa (village elected head) acknowledged Melham’s courage in addressing the community but highlighted the need to comprehend the legal criteria for road support.

Buoyed by her Social Auditing training, Melham was chosen to participate in a policy dialogue at Samtse District, a significant gathering discussing pressing issues. Amidst district-level dignitaries, she fearlessly raised concerns about road connectivity, prompting an assurance of investigation from the engineer. Her inquiry about opportunities for youth enterprises elicited a positive response from Dasho Dzongrab, offering support through the Economic Development Officer. This engagement with district officials was an eye-opener for Melham, who, until then, had only witnessed such proceedings on television. In addition, the discourse revealed plans for an Eco-Village tourism initiative, that aim to not only bolster the Lhop community’s economy and create employment opportunities for youth, but also safeguard Tapagaon’s indigenous culture
Filled with excitement and newfound knowledge, Melham pledged to share this information, fixing accountability and envisioning tangible success in the days ahead. Her determination to disseminate the insights from the policy dialogue to absent community members portrayed her commitment to community welfare and accountability.
Melham’s journey exemplified the impact of informed engagement, potential of youth in steering positive change as well as reflecting the essence of a vibrant, civic engagement platform for youth participation in inclusive decision irrespective t of their background and race.