Rue, as one of the EAGLE the Adventurers 2023/24, can you tell us what EAGLE meant to you?
For me, EAGLE was more than just a programme; it was a transformative experience that equipped me with the skills, resilience, and confidence to step onto a greater stage. The lessons I learned through teamwork, cultural engagement, and mentorship have become the foundation of my commitment to making a positive impact on the world.
What are the key learning from EAGLE that you regard as the most influential?
One important lesson I learned is that what we consider "good enough" often leaves more room for improvement than we expect. Successful teamwork goes beyond simply dividing tasks; it requires mutual understanding, compromise, and ongoing coordination. For example, when my team planned to use discarded bricks to build a garden on the terrace, we initially operated in a transactional manner, focusing only on our individual responsibilities in drafting the plan. However, as we encountered challenges and uncertainties, this approach led to internal misunderstandings about work delivery. Regular check-ins and active listening became essential practices that helped us overcome these obstacles. This experience taught me that effective collaboration is not just about managing tasks, but also about building relationships, trust, and consideration for each member’s context through close feedback and communication within the team.
Further to your experiences with EAGLE the Adventurers, you joined the United Nations Volunteer Programme (UNV). Can you share what led you to this opportunity?
Looking back to May 2024 during our EAGLE expedition, the most rewarding part of the experience was the deep connections I formed with the students at Tarun School. Working alongside them, I witnessed their dedication and resilience, which far exceeded their young age. The cultural exchange and emotional bonds we developed were invaluable, allowing us to learn from one another and appreciate our diverse backgrounds. These meaningful interactions inspired me to seek further opportunities to make a positive impact through international services.
Interestingly, my engagement with UNV was not part of my original plan. I had initially received an offer for an in-person internship with UNHCR Indonesia, but due to visa delays, this opportunity became a remote experience, adding uncertainty to my plans. During this gap semester, I continued telecommuting for UNHCR Indonesia while waiting for my work visa. At times, I questioned whether this journey was worthwhile. To stay motivated, I remained engaged with school activities and participated in various academic exchanges.
I embraced the idea that everything happens for a reason, which helped me approach challenges with a more relaxed and positive attitude—often leading to unexpected opportunities. At the end of December, I was offered an in-person UNV position with IOM in Nepal, thanks to a quicker visa process. This transition allowed me to return to Kathmandu, continuing my journey of service and cross-cultural engagement.
Fate brought you back to Nepal. You mentioned that the deep connections you formed with students at Tarun School were the most rewarding part of EAGLE. Did you manage to reconnect with them?
During my time in Nepal, I worked alongside new colleagues who shared my passion for migration issues and was able to reconnect with the students from Tarun School. It was heartwarming to see how much they had grown in just a year. The once small children were now more confident and articulate, with clearer visions for their futures.
Hearing their stories and aspirations was incredibly inspiring. They spoke about their dreams, the challenges they faced, and the progress they had made. This reunion was a powerful reminder of the impact we can have on each other's lives. These renewed connections enriched my experience and reaffirmed my commitment to supporting youth and communities on their journeys.
How does your EAGLE experience correlate with your UNV journey?
EAGLE played a pivotal role in laying the groundwork for my application to UNV. EAGLE not only equipped me with essential skills but also instilled a sense of confidence that I carried into my UNV journey.
Firstly, EAGLE provided me with hands-on experience in project management and teamwork. Working closely with a diverse group of team members taught me how to navigate different perspectives and foster collaboration. This experience was invaluable; I learned how to prioritise tasks, allocate responsibilities, and maintain open communication. These skills are crucial for any volunteer and leadership role, especially in international settings where adaptability and cultural sensitivity are paramount.
Additionally, EAGLE emphasised the importance of cultural engagement. Interacting with local communities in Nepal allowed me to understand the complexities of migration and social issues from multiple viewpoints. This exposure deepened my empathy and cultural awareness—qualities that are essential for any volunteer working with diverse populations. It also motivated me to advocate for the rights and dignity of marginalised communities, aligning perfectly with the values of UNV.
What are your insights from your UNV experiences?
Gaining first-hand understanding of the operational mechanisms of UN volunteer work was truly enlightening. I observed how teams function on the ground, addressing complex migration issues and providing support to vulnerable communities.
Initially, I was drawn to the idea of working with the UN because of its prestigious reputation. However, I soon learned to let go of the allure of that “glow” and focus on the substance of the work itself. This shift in perspective allowed me to engage more deeply with the realities of migration management, moving beyond surface-level excitement to confront the pressing challenges faced by migrants.
Through these practical experiences, I learned a crucial lesson: real growth comes from shifting my perspective away from self-centred motivations and towards genuinely considering the needs of others.
Did your mindset change after EAGLE the Adventurers, and what do you regard as the most important thing that you learned from the experience?
Reflecting on my EAGLE journey, I’ve realised the importance of pausing to consider what truly motivates me. Revisiting my reasons for joining EAGLE helped me approach new opportunities with greater intention and openness.
Throughout the programme, I learned to embrace variability and uncertainty with a positive mindset. Instead of seeing challenges as obstacles, I started to view them as chances to grow and connect with others in meaningful ways.
Looking back, I feel well-prepared for whatever comes next. The most important thing I learned from EAGLE is to trust in my abilities—to face challenges head-on and make the most of every opportunity.
