Bunu Sherpa
Olgapuri Children's Home (Formerly K-House)
Associate Finance Specialist at Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (UNFAO)
Mentor and advocate for education and financial empowerment
When Bunu Sherpa arrived at Nepal Youth Foundation’s children’s home in 2000, she was just a child in need of stability and support. For the next sixteen years, NYF became her home.
“NYF’s support made it possible for me to truly envision a future for myself, something that once felt completely out of reach,” Bunu recalls. “They provided more than financial aid. They gave me confidence, guidance, and a deep sense of belonging.”
During her years with NYF, Bunu was able to continue her education without the constant burden of financial stress. She grew up in J & K House (now called Olgapuri Children’s Village), in a warm, family-style environment with devoted house parents and a close community of peers—celebrating festivals, sharing meals, and receiving the holistic care every child deserves. More importantly, she grew into a self-assured young woman with purpose and hope. “NYF didn’t just help me, they became my family. They gave me the roots I needed to grow, and the belief that I matter.”
Today, Bunu is an Associate Finance Specialist at a humanitarian organization, the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (UNFAO). Her work allows her to contribute directly to projects that support vulnerable communities across Nepal. “Being able to serve others through my work is incredibly fulfilling, and I know it’s a path I wouldn’t be on without the foundation NYF gave me,” she says.
Beyond her professional role, Bunu mentors young people in her community, offering guidance and encouragement as they pursue their education and career goals. To her, transforming the world is not only about large-scale programs, but also about small, consistent acts of kindness that spark hope in others.
Education and financial empowerment remain deeply personal to her. Growing up with limited resources, she saw how these barriers kept many from realizing their full potential. “NYF gave me the tools to break through those barriers—a solid education and the confidence that I could create a future for myself.”
Her vision for Nepal’s future is one where every child has access to education and the resources needed to thrive. She dreams of a country where young people are not limited by poverty or traditional barriers, but are instead inspired to innovate, lead, and uplift their communities.
Bunu’s advice for future leaders is simple but powerful: “Stay grounded. Keep your eyes on the long-term vision. Always choose service over recognition. True leadership is about creating meaningful change, and the leaders who leave the deepest impact are those who lead with empathy, resilience, and integrity.”
From her childhood at Olgapuri to her current role in the humanitarian sector, Bunu’s story is a testament to the power of education, empowerment, and belonging. Today she stands as a proud NYF alumna—independent, compassionate, and committed to shaping a brighter, more inclusive Nepal.
P.S. Recently, Bunu returned to Olgapuri to emcee the unveiling of Olga Murray’s statue—a moving tribute to the woman she considers part of her family.