“I never thought I would be a teacher,” says Kamala, reflecting on her journey—a journey marked by resilience, determination, and the power of education. Kamala’s story is one that has grown alongside Kopila Valley School, and thanks to supporters like you, it’s one filled with hope.

Kamala was born in the hilly district of Gulmi, Nepal. Her parents worked tirelessly as farmers to support their five children. Life was challenging, but at the age of seven, Kamala’s life took a turn. Her father found work as a security guard in Surkhet and moved the family there, hoping for a brighter future.

In Surkhet, Kamala attended school while her mother continued small-scale farming to support the family. Years later, Kamala began teaching part-time while studying Social Work at Mid-West University. At that time, teaching was just a way to earn money—she hadn’t yet realized it would become her true calling.

In July 2020, amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Kamala joined Kopila Valley School. Adapting to online teaching wasn’t easy, but Kamala embraced the challenge, developing digital lesson plans and finding new ways to connect with her students. As she watched Kopila Valley grow with support from around the world, she began to see teaching in a new light. Kamala discovered a passion she hadn’t known was there, one rooted in gratitude for her parents’ sacrifices and her own commitment to her students.

Today, Kamala is a Grade 1 teacher, beloved by her students. With a smile, she reflects, “If I weren’t a teacher, I don’t know what I would be.”

Kamala’s journey exemplifies the power of resilience and hope. She—and the children she teaches—are thriving because of people like you who believe in the transformative power of education.

As we close this year, we ask you to help continue this journey of hope and resilience. Will you join us by making a donation to support Kamala, her students, and the countless others who are finding hope in the halls of Kopila Valley?

Thank you for being a part of these stories. Thank you for making hope possible.

Warmly,
Bina
Director, Kopila Valley School