The Journey Begins

Born in 2002 in Lawajin, Lelep, Srijana Limbu grew up in a remote part of Taplejung where her family faced severe financial hardship.

Her parents wanted to educate their children, but the family had very limited income. Her father worked as a porter, carrying goods for tourists travelling toward the Kanchenjunga Base Camp, and much of what he earned went toward meeting the family’s daily needs and supporting the children’s education.

Despite these challenges, Srijana remained determined to continue her studies and build a future in the health sector.

An Opportunity That Changed Her Path

While preparing for her Secondary Education Examination in 2017, Srijana and her family learned about the higher education scholarship supported by Himalayan Trust UK.

She knew that continuing her education would be difficult without financial support, so the scholarship represented a rare opportunity to pursue her dream.

After completing her SEE, Srijana applied and was selected for the scholarship in 2018.

For her and her family, the scholarship brought both relief and hope.

Turning Education into a Career

With the scholarship support, Srijana pursued an Auxiliary Nurse Midwife course in Jhapa and completed her qualification in 2019.

She first worked in Birtamod for several months before returning to her home area.

Srijana later joined the health post in Lelep, where she began serving patients from her own community.

She was especially proud to serve during the pandemic, when local health workers were needed most.

Creating Change Close to Home

Srijana’s journey has changed not only her own life, but also the circumstances of her family.

What was once a household struggling to meet basic needs now has a daughter working in the health sector and contributing to the well-being of her community.

Her achievement has also made her a role model for other young people, especially girls from remote and disadvantaged families who may feel that professional careers are beyond their reach.

Looking Ahead

Srijana hopes to continue serving people through healthcare while encouraging other young people to believe that education can open doors, even when the path is difficult.

Her story reflects the difference that opportunity, hard work, and sustained support can make when a young person is given the chance to pursue their goals.

In Her Words

“I still remember the names of John Walton, George Band, Tim and Graham, who visited our small village and dedicated their efforts to supporting marginalized and disadvantaged people. I also became familiar with respected Rajendra Pant and other staff members who have been working in our area for many years with a strong commitment to promoting the importance of education.

Their dedication and encouragement inspired me to apply for a scholarship. Fortunately, I was selected, and receiving the scholarship was one of the happiest moments of my life. I worked hard in my studies, and today I have become a health worker. I believe this achievement would not have been possible without the invaluable support of Himalayan Trust UK.

I may never be able to repay what Himalayan Trust UK has done for me and many others in our community. However, I offer my heartfelt gratitude and blessings to the entire HTUK family. Their continued support has transformed the lives of many people and brought hope and opportunities to our rural communities. What a wonderful contribution they are making to the lives and futures of rural people.”

Srijana Limbu