Kathmandu, May 24 -- What if Nepal's new generation of public speakers sits quietly in a classroom, unsure whether they can raise their hand? For many youths, the fear of public speaking isn't merely stage fright-it's about never having been given a stage at all. While an increasing number of youths in Kathmandu are finding platforms to express themselves, connect with peers, and grow into confident communicators, countless others across the country are still waiting for such opportunities.

Laxmi Rai, a member of the Presidential Toastmasters Club, reflects on her journey of overcoming self-doubt, "In group discussions, I often couldn't say what I wanted," she says. "But seeing confident speakers made me realise I was holding myself back...