In the aftermath of the devastating 2015 earthquake, Shristi Rai, a young deaf girl, faced challenges that many around her did not. While she could not hear the violent tremors and the sounds of destruction, the fear she felt was just as real as it was for others. The world seemed uncertain and chaotic, and for someone who relies on visual and physical cues, the earthquake left Shristi feeling isolated and vulnerable.

"I was really afraid," Shristi recalls. "I couldn’t hear what was going on, and that made it difficult to know what to do. Everything felt out of control." While the world around her scrambled to find safety, Shristi, unable to get immediate information, feared for her life and her family's safety.

Despite her fear, Shristi is a resilient individual, and her journey to empowerment began when she participated in a DR3 in Action session organized by We for Change. The session, focused on disaster preparedness and building resilience, gave Shristi new tools to overcome her fears. "Before this session, I didn't know what to do in a disaster, but after it, I learned the steps to stay safe and how to help others," she shares, her voice filled with newfound confidence.

What made the session even more meaningful was that Shristi wasn’t the only one empowered. Her deaf classmates also participated, and for them, too, it was a moment of transformation. "It made me feel so happy that my friends could also understand what to do during a disaster. We learned together, and it felt like we were all part of something important," Shristi says, smiling as she thinks of her group of friends.

Shristi’s bond with her friends grew stronger as they shared the knowledge from the session. They now discuss disaster preparedness regularly, ensuring that they are ready for any eventuality. “Now, we are all on the same page. We support each other, and it feels empowering to know that we’re all equally informed and prepared,” she adds.

Today, Shristi is no longer just a survivor of the earthquake; she is a confident, empowered individual who actively shares her knowledge with others. She teaches her peers about disaster preparedness and encourages them to think about how they can help people with disabilities. “The DR3 in Action session helped me a lot, and I want others to feel as strong and safe as I do now.”

Shristi is deeply grateful to We for Change for providing the platform that not only changed her life but also brought her closer to her friends. “I want to thank We for Change for this amazing opportunity. I now feel empowered, and I know my friends feel the same. Together, we are stronger.”

Shristi’s story reflects the strength and resilience of individuals who, when given the right tools, can overcome even the most daunting challenges. Her journey—from fear to empowerment—serves as an inspiration to all, showing that knowledge and unity can transform lives, especially when we ensure that no one is left behind.

Shristi’s story is a beautiful reminder of the power of accessible education, community support, and the resilience that emerges when people with disabilities are given the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive.