From Confusion to Connection/My First Group SALT Experience

[Niroj Adhikari]

When the ARC initiative progressed from individual SALT conversations to group SALT conversation I wasnt pretty sure what to expect. Individual SALT felt straightforward one person, one conversation. But a group setting, with many voices, experiences, and perspectives, felt unfamiliar. I found myself feeling both confused and excited.That curiosity soon turned into a meaningful experience on March 11, 2026, when we conducted our first group SALT conversation in the Majilang community. The gathering brought together a diverse mix of participants youth, elders, mothers, fathers, and a community health worker,CBO member and normal community people. Alongside them were our friends from Saarambha ARC cohort members from SAKHI and Peace for people as well as Ritu and Shristi Mam from GFC

Since we were new to group SALT Ritu guided us by dividing roles and assigning questions. We began the session with introductions and by sharing our favorite foods. Interestingly people were more excited to share their favorite food than their names. This simple activity created a warm and open space where everyone felt comfortable. Smiles and laughter filled the room showing how small actions can build strong connections even among people meeting for the first time.

This moment made me reflect on humankind. We are born without bias, and as we grow, our family and community shape our thoughts and behaviors. If we grow up in a supportive and caring environment, we adopt those values. If not we may adopt negative This highlights the importance of building positive and united communities.

Moving on we divided participants into smaller groups and asked them to share meaningful moments from their past that they still remember at present. Through this they discovered each others strengths. Afterward, we reformed as previous and asked them how they felt. Many shared that they rarely get opportunities like this due to daily work and household responsibilities yet they felt happy and

connected One youth participant shared something very powerful he said he had shared things with his group partner that he had never even told his parents. When we asked how that was possible he raised an important issue excessive mobile phone use. He explained that people are so busy on their phones that they no longer make time for real conversations, sharing, or caring.That statement changed the atmosphere in the room. It sparked reflection, and suddenly, many others began sharing their thoughts and experiences.participants who were hesitant to speak but once this topic emerged, everyone actively engaged. The discussion naturally shifted to broader community concerns something we had not even asked for. This showed the true meaning of group SALT.

The community began discussing a serious concerns their local school was at risk of closing due to a low number of students. People openly shared ideas and solutions. One person gave an example of another community that took collective action to protect their school. This highlighted the importance of unity and teamwork.They also discussed migration as a main concern. Despite having a peaceful environment with fresh air and good roads, people are moving to cities, which is affecting the communitys sustainability

Again the youth shared something that left  strong impression on me. He said that the SALT approach is something communities truly need today. While many organizations provide support, goods, or services that are often temporary, SALT creates something that continues. Conversations don’t end they grow, evolve, and stay within the community.As a facilitator, hearing this was incredibly encouraging. It showed me that the community is beginning to recognize its own strength

Another inspiring example was shared about the by the CBO & mother group member Youth had collected money through playing  Deusi Bhailo(done dancing singing during Tihar festival) and planned to install a welcome board to the community but a woman from a cbo and mother group suggested using the funds for dustbins and sanitation instead on the welcome board The youth agreed on one thought showing how experienced community members can positively guide younger generations.

Throughout the session, the community members actively discussed, reflected, and proposed solutions themselves. We mostly listened, witnessing the strength of collective dialogue.

They concluded that even though they work in different fields, they all belong to the same community and should take responsibility for its development. They also emphasized that SALT conversations should continue within families and the community.

we shared a traditional Nepali lunch sel roti and curry prepared with love by our community facilitator’s inlaws who were also pround of thier daughter in law coming forward for the community and they too support her work We enjoyed the meal together with community people strengthening our bond even stronger 

I would also like to sincerely thank Ritu Shristi Mam and Nawaz Sir for being such wonderful teachers. I have learned so much from them about SALT and CLCP, and their guidance has been truly valuable throughout this journey

Reflection

This experience showed me the true power of group SALT. It creates a space for community people to open up connect and collectively address their challenges and concern and look for solutions  I realized that meaningful change does not always come from external solutions it often begins with conversations within the community itself