Volunteering in Nepal: Marta’s Transformative Journey with Volunteer Society Nepal

Marta, a 25-year-old graduate from Italy, embarked on a life-changing journey to Nepal with Volunteer Society Nepal (VSN). Drawn by her curiosity to explore a new part of the world and inspired by the glowing recommendations of past volunteers, Marta joined VSN to make a meaningful impact while immersing herself in Nepal’s rich culture.

Why Volunteer in Nepal?

For Marta, Nepal represented an opportunity to step out of her comfort zone and experience something completely different. “I’ve never been to this part of the world,” Marta explained.

Her decision was further influenced by the experiences of former VSN volunteers who praised the warmth of Nepali people and the organization’s impactful projects. “I was very interested in getting to know something different and different culture” she shared.

Volunteering Projects: Choosing the Monastery and Women’s Center

Marta’s volunteer journey began at a Buddhist monastery, where she spent two weeks teaching and supporting young monks. Marta wanted to work with kids, help them with school, and spend time understanding their way of life.

Following her time at the monastery, Marta planned to volunteer at the Women’s Center. “I chose this project because I wanted to contribute to the empowerment of women,” she explained, highlighting her desire to make a lasting impact in the lives of Nepali women.

A Typical Day in the Monastery

Life at the monastery followed a structured routine, but Marta found joy in its predictability.

• Morning Prayer and Classes: Days began early, with a Buddhist prayer at 6 a.m., followed by breakfast at 7 a.m. and classes from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Marta taught English and other subjects to the young monks, with breaks for lunch and tea.
• Evening Activities: The evenings included another prayer session at 5 p.m., after which Marta spent time engaging with the monks. “They were so open to sharing their lives and stories it was an enriching experience,” she said.
• Exploring the Surroundings: Outside of her daily responsibilities, Marta enjoyed exploring nearby landmarks like the Buddha Stupa and immersing herself in the serene monastery environment.

First Impressions of Nepal: Warm Welcomes and Open Hearts

Upon arriving in Nepal, Marta was struck by the hospitality of its people. “Everyone was so open and welcoming,” she said. The same warmth greeted her at the monastery, where the monks made her feel like part of their community from day one.

Challenges and Lessons: The Importance of Proactivity

One of the challenges Marta faced was adapting to the self-directed nature of volunteering. “As a volunteer, you have to be proactive,” she explained. During her free time, she made it a point to connect with the monks and fully immerse herself in their daily lives. This initiative helped her build deeper connections and understand the community better.

Skills and Experiences That Made a Difference

Marta’s background in babysitting, tutoring, and leading summer camps equipped her with the skills to connect with the children at the monastery. “These experiences helped me engage with the kids and create meaningful learning opportunities for them,” she said.

Making an Impact: A Better World for Nepali Children and Women

Marta hopes her presence has made a positive difference. At the monastery, she focused on exposing the children to new ideas and improving their English skills. “I wanted them to feel heard and supported,” she shared.

At the Women’s Center, she aims to empower local women by fostering confidence and providing resources for personal and professional growth.

Personal Growth: Learning from Nepalese Culture

Marta’s time in Nepal taught her resilience, adaptability, and an appreciation for Nepali culture. “I’ve learned that I can adapt to different situations, and this experience has strengthened that skill even more,” she reflected. She also gained insights into life in a Buddhist monastery, sparking a deep interest in Buddhist traditions and philosophy.

Exploring Nepal: Favorite Places and Activities

During her stay, Marta explored some of Nepal’s iconic destinations:

• Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple): A cultural and spiritual hub in Kathmandu.
• Nagarkot: A picturesque mountain retreat offering stunning views of the Himalayas.

She looks forward to discovering more of Nepal’s beauty during her remaining time in the country.

Advice for Future Volunteers

Marta encourages anyone considering volunteering with VSN to take the leap. “It might seem scary at first, but once you’re here, everything becomes much easier. The connections you’ll make with people will be the most rewarding part.”

Final Reflections: A Life-Changing Experience

As her journey with VSN comes to an end, Marta anticipates missing the people she’s met along the way especially the children at the monastery. “I’m already sad about saying goodbye,” she admitted.

Looking ahead, Marta plans to return to Italy and start her professional career. However, she’s confident that her time in Nepal will leave a lasting impact on her perspective and future endeavors.

Join Volunteer Society Nepal and Make a Difference

Inspired by Marta’s story? Volunteer Society Nepal offers a wide range of impactful programs, from teaching at monasteries to women empowerment initiatives. Discover how you can contribute to meaningful change while exploring Nepal’s vibrant culture.

Visit Volunteer Society Nepal or email contact@volunteersocietynepal.org to start your journey today!