We at the Garden of Hope Foundation are thrilled to have been a part of Taiwan AID’s NGO Fellowship Program 2024 by hosting an extraordinary fellow, Nisar Wali Shah from Rozan Pakistan, who is dedicated to creating an impactful change. It has been an absolute pleasure working alongside someone so committed to combating domestic violence and sexual abuse, resonating with our core mission of fostering justice, healing, and hope for survivors.

Let’s take a look at Nisar’s refelction on this journey:

I am beyond grateful to Taiwan AID for granting me the extraordinary opportunity to join the NGO Fellowship 2024. This journey has been transformative in ways I could never have imagined. My deepest thanks go to my host organization, the Garden of Hope Foundation (GOH), where I had the privilege of working closely with individuals who share my commitment to addressing pressing issues like domestic violence and sexual abuse.

From the moment I arrived at GOH, I was struck by the team’s dedication and compassion. Seeing their approaches to supporting survivors and preventing abuse was not only inspiring but deeply moving. This experience wasn’t just a professional placement; it felt like a place of peace and alignment, where our missions echoed one another’s. The foundation’s work brings justice, healing, and hope to countless lives. Being part of that impact has been an honor beyond words.

During my fellowship, I was also fortunate to visit other organizations making remarkable strides in social justice. At the Hua Young Youth Welfare Service Center, I witnessed their creative approaches to engaging young people on issues of gender-based violence. Their initiatives to reach children and youth are innovative and thoughtful, addressing challenging topics with sensitivity and effectiveness. Similarly, my time at ECPAT Taiwan was an eye-opening experience. The organization’s work in combatting online bullying and child harassment is vital, and seeing their commitment in action filled me with hope. These experiences have not only inspired me but have reinforced my own dedication to justice and safety for vulnerable communities.

I would also like to express my admiration for the Taiwanese government’s support for NGOs like these. Their commitment to fostering a gender-just society is commendable, and I am optimistic that Taiwan will soon rise to the top of the Gender Index, serving as a global model for gender equity.

One particularly meaningful part of my fellowship was my visit to the Immigrant Center, where I met the team at GOH-Immigrants. Together, we explored approaches to “Engaging Men in Safeguarding the Maternal Rights of Migrant Workers and Preventing Unwanted Pregnancies.” Exchanging insights with this dedicated team was both enriching and humbling, and it provided a unique opportunity to discuss safeguarding practices for migrant communities—a cause close to my heart.

This journey has been one of deep transformation, both personally and professionally. I return home with a renewed sense of purpose, ready to bring the lessons I’ve learned back to my work. Taiwan and its incredible organizations have shown me the power of collective action, dedication, and compassion in advancing justice, equality, and healing.

I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Garden of Hope Foundation for welcoming me so warmly and giving me this invaluable opportunity. Special thanks to Ingird Yeh, Supervisor, International Affairs, Irene Tsao, International Affairs Coordinator; Angel Sheng, intern; and Enoch Gen for their unwavering support and warm hospitality. Taiwan, you have left a lasting imprint on my heart. I hope to return to this wonderful island someday to continue building on the bonds we’ve created and the work we’ve started together.

Thank you, Taiwan, for this unforgettable experience.