Stories from the Founders

Karna’s Story (From Nepal)

“When I was a student, I was average, not so bright not so dull. But I had a great desire to join college and receive a Bachelor or Master course. But for all of this my mom did not have the money to support me.   

“When I was in class 8, a Swiss organization began to sponsor poor kids in school. It was the right moment for me to grab this opportunity and give continuity to my higher studies. So I worked very hard in class 9 and 10 and stood first in the final exam of grade 10 and consequently I was sponsored for 10+1 , +2 and Bachelors degree.  

“As I was sponsored, it was my duty to work hard and not let their money go in vain.  Therefore, I worked hard and utilized their money wisely.

“I am from a poor family and I am familiar with the hardships of poor family. Though these kids have the desire to do something, their economic condition is a big challenge, so I want to help those poor kids who are very much interested to go to a better school and do something in their life. I want to help them just as I was helped when I was kid.”

Karna went on the receive in Masters in English and is currently an English Professor in Nepal.

Benny’s Story (From Colorado)

September 2010 – “During my travels in Nepal, while riding my bicycle outside the city of Pokhara, I lost the trail which led me to unfamiliar rice paddies.  It was getting late, and I was without food or water and nearing the point of dehydration.  

A young boy by the name of Saroj discovered me and took me to his family of three younger sisters and mother, father unknown.  They fed me dinner and water, and provided a place to sleep for the night. They had very little, only a small clay hut. They all slept in the one room, accompanied by a small narrow kitchen, where we all sat on the floor to eat.  They have a buffalo and a small garden area for vegetables and rice.

They don’t own any of it.  For all, they pay monthly fees in the form of food rations to a harsh landlord.

I learned of Saroj’s age and hopes for school, but, like many other impoverished Nepali youth, it was likely he would end up working as slave labor in Dubai or India, under poor working conditions, unreasonably long hours, and very low pay.

With this knowledge and their kindness, I felt compelled to do something, to give back to this family.  He was 13 at the time.  I promised to return in three years time to send Saroj to +1, +2 college, provided he passes his SLC exam.

Saroj’s mother wrote down her phone number and village name for me.  For three years, she kept the same phone and phone number, waiting restlessly for the call. Throughout the three years, I kept in contact with Karna, and in the Summer of 2013, he called Saroj’s mother.  

In September 2013, I returned to meet with Saroj and his family.  With the help of Karna’s wife Manju, she helped translate our conversation.  I learned that Saroj was just beginning his studies for SLC.  I was just in time.”

Benny’s story formed the inspiration for Enlightened Nepal.