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Since first meeting Maya in 2019, during a hot and humid autumn in the jungle of Nepal, her story and heart have made an impact on us. Growing up in the Himalayan mountains, facing poverty, a difficult environment and family circumstances, Maya
has found a way to gain strength and to be a light for those in need of encouragement.
Through several circumstances, we grew quickly attached to Maya and became, what she calls, her “second mom and dad”.
While in France, we tried to stay in touch through messaging but her small handful of English words made it difficult for her to communicate when she was distressed. After getting a friend involved to help us better understand the situation, we learned that Maya was going through a very difficult situation. Few of her life choices did not reflect those approved by her parents, including that she refused to marry at the moment. Soon after she had to do unpleasant work, which lead to further isolation,
bringing her to tears during a video call with us.
Having a heart for this precious 22-year-old who was once beaming with light but now dimmed by sadness, we had to think of a way to help her. We invited her to join Nepal Compassion in making pads. This sounded like a great idea but it was actually a very complicated one. She had no previous tailoring skills, and the price to undergo tailor training and room and board would be costly, as well as the approval of her parents were just some of the hurdles to overcome.
At first, her parents disapproved of the idea as the job of a tailor is of a lower cast than Maya’s current cast. Our project leader traveled up the mountains to meet with Maya’s parents to better explain the project and in return they agreed and were even happy to give Maya this opportunity. Our Nepalis team leader and his wife were very eager to take Maya into their home while our lead tailor will train Maya on the basics of tailoring and get her engaged in the project.
Through a special donation, we will be able to buy Maya a sewing machine and the materials necessary for her to begin her new journey as a tailor. Maya’s sweet light has returned and her face now beams with joy as she begins to find herself again.
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We are so very thankful to be the donations conduit, giving hope to those who need it.
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