My SALT Reflection: Learning Beyond Language

[Hritu Khanal]

Namaste everyone, my name is Hritu Khanal, and I am a documentation officer of SHAKHI-Friends of women, Nepal. When I joined the ARC/COHORT of Nepal four months after its initiation, it took me some time to truly understand what SALT is, how it works, and how it should be practiced. Initially, the concept felt new and slightly challenging. However, I began by conducting SALT conversations with my office staffs. I met each staff member individually, listened to their stories, and tried to learn something new from them. Through these one-on-one conversations, I was able to quickly understand the working environment of my office and build strong, trusting relationships with everyone. SALT deeply motivated me in my work, helped me connect with each staff member on a personal level, and strengthened teamwork and collaboration within the office.

Later, during a Dream Building session, I had the opportunity to engage with board members and explore our organization’s vision and mission more closely. That experience was truly eye-opening for me. For the very first time, I got the opportunity to actively participate in such meaningful discussions and activities. While reflecting on and discussing the dreams of our organization, I felt as if I was shaping my own dreams. It created a deep emotional connection between me and the organization. I no longer saw it as just a workplace; I began to feel that I am truly a part of it. Now, I always think of it as my organization, and I feel personally responsible to work hard and contribute wholeheartedly toward fulfilling our shared dreams.

On a personal level, SALT has transformed me. Earlier, I hesitated to take the initiative to start conversations. I would wait for others to approach me. I also had a habit of focusing on people’s weaknesses or negative aspects when interacting with them. Through consistent SALT practice, I consciously shifted my perspective. Now, I take the initiative to start conversations, and instead of looking for negative aspects, I intentionally search for strengths in people. SALT has helped me develop a positive mindset and an appreciative attitude. It has changed the way I see people and situations.

Recently, I completed SALT conversations with community members in my working area. I come from a background that is very different from the community where I work in terms of language, culture, tradition and lifestyle. In this community, almost everyone speaks Bhojpuri language, while I speak only Nepali. At first, this felt like a major barrier. When I first entered the community, I was very afraid and unsure whether I would be able to communicate at all. I felt like a stranger in a completely new world. It was very difficult for me to understand the local language and culture. However, instead of giving up, I looked for solutions. I identified community members who could speak Nepali and sought support from facilitators to help translate during conversations. I started visiting the field daily and conducted SALT conversations with many people of the community.  The community members were also curious about me and showed interest in talking with me.

Gradually, trust began to grow, and people started opening their hearts, sharing their stories, struggles, strengths, and dreams with me. I realized that when we listen sincerely, people feel valued and respected. Through this journey, I learned that language is not a barrier when the intention to understand is strong. To truly connect with others, perfect language is not necessary. What matters most is genuine intention, respect, and a willingness to listen with an open heart. Even when words are limited, understanding can grow through empathy, patience, and sincerity.

Now, we have almost completed SALT conversations throughout the entire village. Many people recognize me, greet me warmly, and call out to me when they see me. I no longer feel like an outsider; I feel emotionally connected and consider them my own people.

I am sincerely grateful to Ritu and Shristi mam for guiding me at every step and helping me understand the true value of genuine connection.

[Shahrukh Atpade]

This blog is very inspiring and honest. Your personal and professional transformation through SALT journey is beautifully presented. Despite the language barrier, you have effectively demonstrated how genuine intention, respect and a willingness to listen can build relationships. Your experience shows that SALT is not just a method, but a relationship-building process. Best wishes for your future journey...!
SALT creates in you a human perspective. SALT will definitely strengthen your relationships with others.