My connection with Nature

I wanted to share a significant experience from my past that profoundly shaped my appreciation for nature and perseverance.

When I was 16, while a student at Saint Paul’s School in Darjeeling, I participated in a mountaineering expedition as part of the requirements for the Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award. As one of five participants, I was the only student who successfully reached the base camp of Kanchenjunga (the world’s third-highest mountain). The attached photograph was taken at the base camp.

This achievement, which my four classmates were unable to complete due to various challenges, served as my first significant test beyond my comfort zone. I am honored to have been one of the first individuals from Nepal to receive this prestigious recognition.

This experience taught me early on that growth and transformation require time, nurturing, and perseverance—qualities I aspire to instill in my children. In our fast-paced world, nature remains a powerful reminder to cultivate patience and allow experiences to unfold gracefully.

Many years later, the lessons learned from this award profoundly influenced my decision to join Rotary International, an organization to which I continue to dedicate my service.

– Udaya Gartaul