Forget whispers. The Australian Embassy in Nepal just threw a full-on conversation grenade with their electrifying panel discussion and networking meet, "Menopause to Meno-Peak", on 3rd June 2024 at a full-to-the-brimm hall in Kathmandu. This wasn't a casual chat about hot flashes - it was a fierce and frank discussion about a topic long shrouded in silence, especially in Nepal.

Powerhouse women like world-renowned Buddhist nun, singer Ani Choying Drolma, and the indomitable Australian mountaineer Allie Pepper led the charge. They tackled the subject of menopause head-on, shattering the stigma and sparking a long-overdue conversation. A puzzle for many in the audience was to see Dr Sunoor Verma, an international communication strategist and President of The Himalayan Dialogues, on the stage. He was the lone male voice in an all-female panel, a bold choice by Australian Ambassador to Nepal HE Felicity Volk, signalling that the traditional approach of engaging mainly with women on female sexual and reproductive health needs a rethink. Ambassador Volk introduced Dr Sunoor as communication strategist, deeply committed to gender equity who walks the talk.

"Half the population experiences menopause, yet it's barely a murmur!" boomed Ambassador Volk in her welcome remarks. "We need research, accessible healthcare, and strong workplace support for women transitioning through this natural stage." Her point about integrating menopause knowledge into existing health practices instead of creating a whole new breed of specialists resonated deeply.

One compelling moment came when Ani Choying Drolma shared her experiences with menopause. What would her other nuns be going through if she could feel such misery? This was a recurring thought for Ani, which helped her decide that she needed to acknowledge and address menopause publicly. Dr Sunoor deeply thanked Ani for sharing her journey, especially as a faith leader. He highlighted that in many countries, faith and sexual and reproductive health are seen as opposing parties, which should not be the case. Ani's courage in speaking openly highlighted the critical need for bridges between faith and science, Dr Sunoor opined.

But this wasn't just a biology lesson. Pepper, a force of nature herself, shed light on the mental and emotional challenges menopause can bring. "Depression, insomnia – it was brutal," she shared. "Finding a doctor who understood took forever! But with the right treatment, I reclaimed my life. We need to talk openly about this and smash the stigma!" Allie Pepper is a mountaineer on a mission who conquers peaks without supplemental oxygen to raise awareness about menopause and inspire women.

A sociologist, Dr. Neeti Aryal Khanal, moderated the high-voltage panel and brought an economic angle to the conversation. "Women often hit their career peak right when menopause hits," she explained.

"Workplaces must be equipped to help them navigate this transition and reach leadership positions. It's a win-win!"

The energy in the room was electric. This wasn't just about women's health – it was about societal change. Dr Sunoor Verma, shared, "In my work across various countries, I've seen the same pattern: Men are left out of menopause discussions. This creates a massive knowledge gap. Men need to be part of the solution, not just spectators." He further elaborated, "Our health education systems are stuck in the Stone Age when it comes to sexual and reproductive health. We teach boys about puberty but leave out menopause. It's like giving them half a map and expecting them to navigate the whole terrain." Dr Sunoor said that it was unrealistic to expect boys and men to support women's sexual and reproductive health if they are poorly informed of their own.

In closing remarks, Ani Choying Drolma reminded us that we should all focus on reducing suffering and that it is vital for women in menopause to think of themselves first for once. Allie Pepper urged health providers to get up to date on available options for managing menopause. In closing, Dr Sunoor was invited to make broader recommendations on advancing female sexual and reproductive health in Nepal. In response, the lone male on the panel said, "For a future where everyone thrives, let's bridge the gap: Men, listen actively to women about menopause: businesses, support staff with resources and open discussions. SRH organizations engage men in women's health. Donors prioritize measurable progress in women's health and make it conditional to your aid. And women, please don't give up on men; when we get it, we do get it, but it takes us, men, time!"

With inspiring role models and a no-holds-barred discussion, "Menopause to Meno-peak" was more than a seminar – it was a revolution starter. Ambassador Felicity Volk's invitation received overwhelming participant registration. The audience was just as inspiring as the speakers– a diverse mix of activists, policymakers, politicians, lawyers, health experts, businesspersons and media, all ages and genders. Their questions during the Q&A session were as sharp as they were insightful, sparking a genuinely dynamic exchange. The discussion was livecast on Facebook by the Australian Embassy in Nepal.

Expressing gratitude for this meeting, there was unanimity in acknowledging that the outgoing Australian Ambassador to Nepal, Felicity Volk, is a true champion for Nepal's prosperity. Speakers said she is known for tirelessly tackling crucial issues; she's a diplomat who thrives in equal measure on engagement with grassroots communities or Nepal's political elite. Her commitment and bravery are undeniable, evident not just in her willingness to tackle sensitive topics like menopause but also in her captivating speeches, a testament to her acclaimed literary background. Ambassador Volk leaves a legacy of going the extra mile, paving the way for a stronger, healthier Nepal.