Coordinator Kshamata’s Journey of Challenging a New Leadership
The International Leadership Development Course (ILDC) is more than just a one-time program; it is the starting point for a lifelong learning journey. Since 2023, AHI has included alumni in the coordination team to pave the way for expanding this learning community.
As part of this strategy, we welcome Kshamata Khadka (KOPILA- Nepal) to the ILDC 2026 coordination team.
Since December 2025, she has driven the process, from drafting the course outline to managing selection.
We asked her about her thoughts on taking on this coordination role and her expectations.
From Participant to Coordinator: Why I Took on the Role
There were two main reasons. First, on a personal level,
I wanted to deeply understand how the training course functions outside the classroom—to learn about its approaches, practices, and exactly what goes on ‘behind the scenes’ from a coordinator’s perspective.
Second, for my professional growth, I wanted to serve as a “bridge” between the coordinators and the participants.
I knew this training brings together so many people from different backgrounds, all working for community empowerment in diverse situations. Learning how to coordinate such a dynamic environment would surely enhance my leadership skills from Level 1 to Level 2.
The Challenge of Looking Beyond Just “Excellent Candidates”
To be honest, back when I was a participant—especially since it took me three attempts to finally get selected—I used to think that being a participant was the hardest part (laughs).
But stepping into the coordinator’s shoes made me realize the immense pressure that comes with the role.
As coordinators, we have to analyze every element objectively. I came to understand that a candidate who is simply “excellent” or has outstanding strengths isn’t automatically the best fit for the course. We have to look at everything from individual behavioral traits to specialized expertise, evaluating as a team how these members will learn from one another and how their specific learning needs will complement the group. By analyzing everyone from different perspectives, we ensure that we remain unbiased and make informed decisions that are best for both the participants and the course.
My Expectations for the Coordinator’s Role
From the previous course, I learned the importance of having the patience to wait—giving space to participants who haven’t spoken yet. While silently observing and waiting is a real challenge for me, it’s something I would like to practice as a coordinator. I want to commit to creating a safe space where all participants can enjoy and share their ideas freely.
This year, we are expecting 11 participants from 9 different countries, and their fields of activity are incredibly diverse. I am so excited to see what kind of new, mutual learning will spark from this rich diversity.
Another unique feature of this year’s group is the high number of female participants, so I am really looking forward to the incredible power and unique perspectives the participants will bring to the course, especially from my standpoint of working to support women’s groups.
Find out more about this year’s participants here.
Learning Community: A Place to Relive Those Beautiful Memories and Stay Connected
— AHI hopes to expand this community where alumni, along with participants from other programs can learn from one another. What do you think are the benefits of joining this community?
One major benefit is being able to “relive” those beautiful memories and experiences we shared at AHI. Spending over a month of intense, deeply meaningful time together turns our peers into something much more than just friends—they become like family. Whenever we gather in this community, those memories vividly come back to life. We laugh together, catch up on each other’s lives, and truly re-energize one another.
Another key benefit is the ability to “stay connected.” By sharing our ongoing work with peers who share the same purpose, it becomes a wonderful opportunity to learn new grassroots methods and approaches directly from the field.
That is exactly why I hope many more alumni will step into this circle and join us.
Call for AHI Alumni Volunteers!
AHI is planning to create more opportunities for our alumni to contribute to the preparation and implementation of ILDC. These may include co-organizing orientation sessions, sharing encouraging messages with participants, and reviewing or improving workshop modules. We will announce these opportunities through our Facebook group and look forward to your ideas, feedback, and active involvement!
