From Finding Her Voice to Inspiring a Community
Name: Somashree Roy
Age: 21 Years
Village: Subhashpally, Murshudabad
Role: Youth Facilitator
Growing up in Berhampore, Somashree believed that many important decisions about a girl’s life would be made by others. Like many adolescent girls in her community, she saw early marriage and limited opportunities as an accepted reality. Speaking up was never easy, and dreaming beyond traditional expectations seemed almost impossible.
Her journey began to change when she became part of Praajak’s adolescent programme, supported by Terre des Hommes Suisse. Through learning circles, gender sessions, sports, and discussions on child rights, safety, equality, and leadership, she gradually discovered something she had never fully realised before—that her voice mattered.
Today, Somashree has transformed from a participant into a youth leader. She facilitates learning circles, supports younger girls through sports activities, and encourages adolescents to speak confidently about their rights, education, and safety. Her leadership is rooted not only in personal resilience but also in a deep commitment to helping other children realise their potential.
As her understanding grew, Somashree also began recognising the connection between environmental issues and child safety. Waterlogging, damaged roads, blocked drains, and poor sanitation were making everyday life more difficult and increasing health risks for children in her neighbourhood. Together with other young people, she participated in identifying these concerns, engaging with local authorities, and advocating for practical solutions. Their collective efforts contributed to improvements such as road repairs and better drainage around public water points, creating safer spaces for children and families.
One experience left a lasting impression on her. After the improvements were completed, the children decided to write a letter of appreciation to the municipal workers who had carried out the work. The gesture surprised and encouraged the workers, reminding everyone involved that positive recognition can strengthen partnerships between communities and local institutions.
Listening to the experiences of children from other climate-vulnerable regions of West Bengal further broadened Somashree’s perspective. She realised that while environmental challenges may differ from one place to another, meaningful solutions are strongest when children’s voices are included in planning and decision-making.
Today, Somashree continues her education while volunteering as a youth leader in her community. She believes that when girls are provided with knowledge, safe spaces, opportunities, and supportive adults, they become powerful agents of change—not only for themselves, but for their families and communities.
Her journey reflects Praajak’s belief that investing in adolescent leadership creates lasting change: empowering young people to protect their rights, contribute to safer communities, and build a more equitable future.
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