Kharimaya grew up with her six siblings in a disadvantaged neighbourhood of the village of Tipling, in Dhading, central Nepal. As a member of the marginalized Dalit caste, at the lowest echelon of society’s classes, she faced severe discrimination and prejudice. But brave, smart and eager to learn, Kharimaya never gave up on her dreams. Her potential and academic achievements caught the attention of Father Arul Selvam, who works for a GSIF partner organization. Although initially hesitant, Kharimaya’s mother eventually accepted the scholarship offer for her daughter, realizing it was a chance for her to pursue a better future. 

Kharimaya was welcomed into the Child Protection home run by GSIF local partner Opportunity Village Nepal (OVN), in Hemja, Pokhara. In this supportive environment, she flourished both academically and personally and gained confidence in her capacity to achieve great things. An excellent student, she learned new skills and essential values such as kindness, compassion and hard work from the dedicated sisters who looked after her.

Diligent and passionate, Kharimaya became the first person from her village to complete the Secondary Education Examination (SEE) and HSEB examination. After secondary school, she took a software development course and did a one-year internship to put her skills into practice. She is today working as a Data Entry Officer at Labim Mall in Kathmandu. Balancing her work responsibilities with the pursuit of a bachelor’s degree, she found the strength to keep pushing forward in her goals.

Kharimaya is willing to give back to her community in the village of Tipling. She advocates for equitable education for low caste children and women who, like her before, lack access to educational and work opportunities. A true role model, she inspires children to dream big, believe in themselves and live meaningful lives.