Roni

How volunteers are fighting myths regarding contraception in Nepal

Roni demonstrating an Intrauterine Device (IUD) at a youth session in Bhatapur, Nepal.

Meet Roni Shakya, a peer educator and volunteer at Marie Stopes International (MSI) in Bhatapur, Nepal. She identifies with MSI’s mission because it encourages youth to learn about sexual health, contraception and safe abortion; topics that may be otherwise condemned in Nepalese culture.

Roni explains that young people in Nepal are curious about matters concerning sexual health, reproductive health and family planning. Yet, most are without access to any information because many adults find these issues too sensitive to talk about openly.

Pop-up volunteers running an orientation session titled “Youth Career and Contraceptives” at a local college in Kathmandu, Nepal.

“While taking youth sessions, we find they have various curiosities and concerns. But who should they ask about it? If they share with their families, then their parents will scold them, if with elder brothers or seniors then they will be hesitant, if with juniors then, juniors aren’t much informed about it.”

Together, Roni and a group of youth pop-up volunteers are bridging the cultural gap that stigmatizes speaking about family planning in Nepal. During these pop-up sessions, volunteers work with young people to spread awareness on topics such as contraception, cleanliness and even provide basic health check-ups.

Prior to the sessions, many youth were unaware that abortion is legal in the country — even though it has been allowed for many years.

Pop-up Volunteers speaking to passer-by youth about the youth friendly services provided by the MSI-Nepal clinic at Putalisadak, Kathmandu.

“After Marie Stopes deployed youth pop-up volunteers, we have saved many people from unsafe behaviors and provided information on family planning.”

Their work is helping to change the lives of young people and the culture surrounding reproductive health in Nepal.