Samjhana Rijal, a 25-year-old born blind, has experienced an extraordinary journey of empowerment and personal growth since joining Blind Rocks in 2016. Before joining Blind Rocks, Samjhana’s primary challenge was finding a platform to express her talents and passions. Born blind, she faced societal barriers that often limited her opportunities to engage in activities she loved, such as singing and dancing, creating various stigma and stereotypes . Despite her enthusiasm and potential, she lacked the confidence and resources to pursue these interests fully.
Initially, she participated in a dance workshop, where she met friends who soon discovered her singing talent. This revelation marked the beginning of her multifaceted journey with Blind Rocks. Through her involvement in Blind Rock’s different workshops and events, Rijal acquired various skills, including makeup, personality development, public speaking, and spontaneous answering. These skills were particularly honed during her preparation for Ms. Blind Rocker Season 2, where she achieved the title of second runner-up. Later performing on stage as a member of the Blind Rocks band at numerous events boosted Samjhana’s confidence. She embraced the opportunity to share her passion for singing, earning the title of “Blind Rocks Singing Queen.”
In 2023, Samjhana became a board member of Blind Rocks!. She said, “this role allowed me to transfer my experiences and knowledge to new participants in Mr. and Mrs. Blind Rockers International Season 4.” Her contributions have been instrumental in motivating and empowering young blind individuals. Rijal’s involvement with Blind Rocks has led to profound personal and professional growth. She now attends singing classes, driven by the motivation she gained from the organization. Her confidence in both singing and dancing has flourished, enabling her to inspire others within the blind community. As a board member, Samjhana plays a crucial role in the administrative aspects of Blind Rocks, working to expand the organization’s reach and impact. She is dedicated to organizing events that resonate with the youth and encourage their participation and empowerment.
In a nutshell her journey from a participant to a board member highlights the significant impact of support, skill development, and empowerment on individuals with disabilities. Her journey with Blind Rocks has been one of transformation, empowerment, and growth being an integral part of blind rocks. Through the support and opportunities provided by the organization, she has been able to develop her skills, boost her confidence, and pursue her passions. Her journey with Blind Rocks has not only benefited her personally but has also allowed her to give back to the community that supported her.