A return shaped by purpose
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
TLDR
- Anmol Shrestha, a Nepali diaspora member raised in California, founded Birthright Nepal to connect the Nepali diaspora with health sector roles in Nepal.
- The organization was inspired by a personal tragedy where a colleague's child could not receive adequate care for severe burns due to a lack of specialized medical facilities.
- Birthright Nepal offers an 8-week fellowship program, linking diaspora members with partner organizations, primarily in healthcare, and includes a cultural excursion to connect fellows with their heritage.
Birthright Nepal represents a powerful movement of the Nepali diaspora seeking to reconnect with their roots while making a tangible impact on their homeland. Anmol Shrestha's initiative, born from personal loss and a deep-seated desire to address critical gaps in Nepal's healthcare system, highlights a growing trend of global Nepalis investing their skills and passion back into the country.
I got really close with a colleague there. It was so precious that he thought our time together was cherishable; he ended up naming his kid after me.
The organization's model, inspired by Birthright Armenia, focuses on practical contributions through fellowships, allowing diaspora members to work directly with local health organizations. This hands-on approach not only addresses immediate needs but also fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of Nepali culture and identity. The inclusion of cultural excursions is a thoughtful addition, ensuring that the experience is as much about heritage as it is about service.
They tried to take him to the local hospital, but there was no one who had the capacity to take care of him. They even took him to Surkhet and Nepalgunj, hoping for treatment, yet no one could deal with paediatric burns at the time.
This initiative is particularly significant in Nepal, where the brain drain has long been a concern. Birthright Nepal offers a structured pathway for skilled Nepalis abroad to contribute meaningfully, bridging the gap between international expertise and local needs. It's a testament to the enduring connection many Nepalis feel to their homeland and their commitment to its development, moving beyond mere remittances to direct, impactful engagement.
Birthright Armenia is almost like a mentor for us.
Originally published by Kathmandu Post. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.