YPARD and the art of paying it forward

"When you've worked hard, and done well, and walked through that doorway of opportunity, you do not slam it shut behind you. You reach back, and you give other folks the same chances that helped you succeed."

 

This is not my quote rather one by Michelle Obama. But its also one that aptly describes Madan Poudel a YPARD member from Nepal. He is not only a local representative of this active national chapter but also a jack of all trades when it comes to  giving back to the youth community.

 

And given that the YPARD 10 years celebrations are still ongoing, Madan felt that he had to tell how he benefits from being part of YPARD Community while contributing to supporting the network of young professionals in agriculture, in Nepal particularly but also beyond. 

 

But how did all this begin?

 

In 2013, Madan joined YPARD as a Web and Knowledge intern working remotely from Nepal. His day to day activities involved managing and expanding the information services on YPARD’s website. This volunteer opportunity opened doors for him including his participation at an ICT4D training sponsored by GFAR and organized by CGIAR. After his internship with YPARD Global Coordination Unit, Madan launched a series of initiatives to train his peers in Nepal, both online and onsite and among these includes  "AgriYouthNepal," a Nepalese youth network that spreads their idea for agriculture development.

 

To him, the internship not only provided him with the technical skills but also has made him aware of lots of opportunities in agriculture. Through it he learnt about the scientific paper writing procedure as well as how to write  proposals. He also expanded his global network among various young professionals both via email communications and social media.