The Aspire42 Foundation recently embarked on a transformative journey to Nepal, forging deep connections with The Nepal Initiative and other incredible organisations. Over four emotional days, Aspire42’s Chief Marketing Officer, Paul Winslow, and the Foundation’s CEO, Kirsty Perkins, experienced firsthand the resilience, strength, and unwavering hope of the Nepalese children and communities. This article captures the essence of their trip and the lasting impression it has left on them.
A Journey of Hope and Transformation: Aspire42 Foundation’s Visit to Nepal
19 February 2025Day 1: Building Connections and Creating Memories
Their first day in Nepal was filled with excitement, connections, and meaningful experiences. Starting with a breakfast meeting attended by representatives from The LightHouse Foundation, Kids of Kathmandu, and the G10 program, which supports children beyond their schooling years – the day continued with a visit to a women’s hostel housing around 40 girls rescued from child trafficking. An intense session of jewellery making revealed our CEO, Kirsty Perkins’ hidden talent, and Kirsty and Paul, enjoyed heartfelt conversations as the girls practised their English and learned all about their Australian visitors. The day ended with a spectacular cultural performance of Nepalese dance by the children of The LightHouse Foundation. The highlight? Our very own Paul Winslow and Kirsty Perkins joined in the communal dance, creating unforgettable memories.
Day 2: Inspiring Initiatives and Creative Expressions
The second day of their trip was as rewarding as the first. Beginning with a visit to the Ek Ek Paila clinic to meet Dr. Suman Thapa. Ek Ek Paila, which translates to “one step at a time,” was started after the 2015 earthquake and has evolved into a permanent clinic in Kathmandu. Concluding their visit with an agreement that the children supported by The Nepal Initiative would attend the clinic for regular health checks. Back at the hostel, they participated in a fun and creative “Helping Hands” artwork session with the children, producing pieces that will be gifted to various businesses and auctioned off at our upcoming Art Appreciation Evening and Auction. The day ended with a friendly football match, fostering connections and community spirit.
Day 3: Joyous Moments and Sobering Realities
Their third day in Nepal was a mix of joy and reflection. Spending several hours with the children and supported by The Nepal Initiative at a climbing wall activity centre, watching them tackle the walls with fearless determination. Back at the hostel, the fun continued with their new friends, a group of French Scouts based in the UK. These Scouts discovered The Nepal Initiative through its website and travelled to Nepal to volunteer their services. Later, Kirsty and Paul visited the G10 charity, which supports the many children who had been trafficked but were then rescued. The stark contrast between their past lives and the vibrant hope we witnessed was a powerful reminder of the importance of our support.
Day 4: Emotional Farewells and New Beginnings.
Their final day in Nepal was an emotional rollercoaster. The morning was spent with six of the G10 girls on their barista training course, discussing potential employment opportunities in the café they trained in and future possibilities of working as baristas in the UAE. They then visited the school attended by the children supported by The Nepal Initiative, where passionate teachers expressed their need for more equipment and training – the day culminated in an emotional farewell party at the girls’ hostel. They bid farewell to young Geeta, who, thanks to the support of The LightHouse Foundation and their new American connection, Terry, was leaving for a new life in America. The emotions were high as they said their final goodbyes to the children, whose resilience and strength left a lasting mark on their hearts.
