- AddressG21b, The Pier, Pier Point Road, Cairns QLD 4870 Australia
After the earthquakes hit Nepal in 2016, I got to know Som Tamang and the work of the Friends of Himalyan Children and Take On Nepal through my role as a journalist in Australia. I was determined to help on the ground but as there is usually a rush of assistance after natural disasters, I wanted to wait until I could be of most use. I spent a month in Batase Village and it has truly been one of the best experiences of my life.
My trekking guide, Phulmaya Tamang and trainee guide Samjhana Tamang greeted me with a smile when we met for our two day journey to Batase. After a tumultuous couple of years back at home it was a huge relief to walk in those mountains under a brilliant blue sky with happy guides. I nearly cried when I saw the snow-capped Himalayas for the first time, not realising I would be able to look at that amazing view while brushing my teeth for the next month. Phulmaya went out of her way to ensure my comfort during my whole stay and is a wonderful companion, with whom I will have a lifelong friendship and Samjhana, who shows great promise of becoming a champion runner is an inspirational young woman.
I really liked being able to travel to Batase as an individual rather than as part of a group but I enjoyed sharing my experience with a few other volunteers once in the village. From my first welcome with garlands during the Tihrar festival until my journey back to Kathmandu, I was made to feel so welcome by the FHC and Take on Nepal staff, teachers and children. The accommodation and food well exceeded my expectations and I really felt part of the community while I was there. I loved teaching and helping train staff to manage the sponsorship program. It was very special to teach and visit the home of the girl we sponsor through FHC. Living the Batase Village life is the happiest I have been in a long time and I can’t wait to return with my family.
~ Kirsty Nancarrow (December, 2016)
