June 9, 2026
Every year, the WAWCAS family comes together for a team-building workshop to strengthen our relationships, reflect on our journey, and prepare for the future. This year’s workshop was especially unique and transformative, combining personal growth, spiritual development, and organizational reflection.
The first phase of the workshop took place from 28 May to 2 June 2026 at Dr. Bikashananda’s Eco-Spiritual Ashram in Pokhara, where the entire WAWCAS team participated in the GAVA Program (Guruurja, Auto-Suggestion, Visualization, and Action).
The daily schedule was intensive, beginning at 4:30 a.m. and continuing until 8:00 p.m. For many team members, the first day was physically and mentally challenging as we were not accustomed to such long hours of meditation, yoga, and self-reflection. However, as the days progressed, participants gradually adapted and began experiencing the deeper benefits of the program.
One of the key lessons focused on managing negative thoughts and emotions when facing difficult situations. Dr. Bikashananda emphasized several powerful principles for personal growth and harmonious relationships:
Participants also learned about the power of auto-suggestion—positive messages we repeatedly give ourselves to shape our mindset, confidence, and behavior. Through visualization exercises, meditation, and yoga, we discovered that meaningful change is possible when we train both the mind and body. As Dr. Bikashananda reminded us, if meditation and self-discipline were easy, everyone would master them; their value lies in the dedication they require.
The sessions were enriched by many inspiring stories shared by Dr. Bikashananda, illustrating how positive thinking, resilience, and self-awareness can transform lives. Another memorable experience was the sound healing session, which brought deep relaxation, joy, and emotional healing to participants. It quickly became one of the highlights of the program.
Following completion of the GAVA program, the team proceeded to the second phase of the workshop, focusing on organizational review, learning, and future planning.
Each district team presented its annual progress, achievements, challenges, and plans for the coming year. It was encouraging to see the remarkable progress made across all program areas. Together, we celebrated that WAWCAS successfully met its annual targets and continued to make a positive impact on women, children, families, and communities.
A particularly emotional and meaningful session revisited a tradition from last year’s team-building workshop. During the previous workshop, every team member had written a personal letter to their future self, outlining their goals, dreams, and commitments for the year ahead.
This year, those letters were returned to their authors. One by one, team members opened and read their letters aloud. The session became a powerful moment of reflection as participants compared their aspirations with their achievements. Many were proud to discover that they had fulfilled most, if not all, of the commitments they had made to themselves. Others reflected honestly on goals they had not yet achieved and explored the reasons behind those challenges. The exercise reinforced the importance of self-accountability, perseverance, and continuous growth.
As the workshop came to a close, each participant once again agreed to write a personal letter to themselves, setting new commitments and aspirations for the coming year. These letters will serve as reminders of the dreams, responsibilities, and goals that guide both our personal and professional journeys.
This year’s team-building workshop was much more than an annual gathering. It was a journey of self-discovery, reflection, learning, and renewal. We returned not only as stronger professionals but also as more mindful individuals, equipped with new tools to manage challenges, strengthen relationships, and contribute more effectively to our mission.
Together, we learned that sustainable change begins within ourselves. By strengthening our minds, hearts, and teamwork, we strengthen WAWCAS and the communities we serve.
“When we transform ourselves, we transform the world around us.”