Leading on the Frontline

6Be bold

How extreme spontaneity taught me trust in Nepal

We were travelling on Karma’s 200cc trail bike, perfect for speed and the necessary off-roading. The back of that bike was a happy place for me. It brought all my senses to life. I loved being immersed in the elements, feeling the wind and rain, the sun beating down and the chill of the night. I loved being able to look directly into the eyes of passers-by. In a car, I felt like I was watching the world on TV, a detached observer, so I avoided cars whenever possible.

Now we were on our way to visit Aditi in an isolated village perched high on a windswept crag. In our project to help vulnerable Nepali families develop income-generating businesses, Aditi was one of the stars. Starting with an investment of just $100, she had formed a candle-making cooperative, and it was progressing well. She had done her research and tested the market. With daily power cuts of up to 18 hours, every family was obliged to buy candles. Having purchased the necessary moulds, wicks and wax, Aditi could make a candle for 6 Nepali rupees and sell it for 10 rupees. The market was limitless. It was a perfect example of a long-term sustainable business. The number of women joining the cooperative was growing fast.

The women were already gathered waiting for us at the focal point of the village, a magnificent banyan tree. I adored this tree and marvelled at the way its long aerial roots had plunged down from the horizontal branches and taken root to ...