Keshav: Embracing The Waves Of Wisdom
Tuesday, January 30, 2024
Meet Keshav, a spirited individual who approaches life with an insatiable curiosity and a driving force for growth. His story is full of navigating life’s journey, the art of studying, learning, and moving forward despite it all. He is a star in many people’s eyes. He says to his younger siblings: "You are not just receiving an education; you are becoming part of a legacy."
At the age of 26, Keshav is where he worked tirelessly to be; life has come full circle for him.
Growing in Knowledge and Life
Keshav is a BBA (Bachelors Of Business Administration) student finishing his last year at a local university in Surkhet, Mid-western University. Apart from being a student of BBA and a student of life, he is a Finance Assistant at Kopila Valley Sewa Samaj going on his fourth year.
When Keshav joined the university to study for BBA, his academic horizons widened and he considered applying for a day job. Then, he came across something a little different that piqued his interest. A job at his old school? What an idea?!
“While looking at possible job openings, I discovered Kopila Valley was looking for a Finance Assistant, and I was immediately interested.” It also collided with a finance course he was taking and thus, he knew that it was going to be what he exactly needed.
Keshav says that there are, unsurprisingly, many challenges to balancing a work life while you are still a student, which include time and capacity. But through the rise and fall of life tides, he has learned his pace. “At one point, I was very overwhelmed with work and studies. However, I am so fortunate that I did not give up and continued.”
In his role as a Finance Assistant, Keshav found himself collaborating with a dedicated team, each member driven by the collective vision of creating a brighter future for the children of Kopila Valley. “From managing budgets to strategizing sustainable financial practices, every task feels like a brushstroke in the masterpiece of empowerment that Kopila Valley is creating.” The real magic, however, unfolded in the interactions with his juniors. The way the students’ eyes sparkle with curiosity, resilience, and dreams reminds him of his younger days.
“As an alum of Kopila Valley, the bond with the school and organization has extended beyond my professional role. Every day I find myself engaged in mentorship programs, career counseling sessions, and alumni reunions that celebrate the successes and endeavors of the Kopila family.” As a Finance Assistant and alum, he is not just a part of the Kopila story; he is a storyteller who is paving his own path.
Keshav is on a roll. He is almost graduating his Bachelors in BBA, and even though he has no ultimate plan for a Master’s Degree or what happens next, he sees his life in Kopila Valley School on the brighter side.
Where it all Started
“My story with Kopila Valley began when I was welcomed into the school in 2010. I was in 5th grade and had just freshly come down from my village, Kalikot. It was a new beginning for me.”
With an open and compassionate mind he embraced his Kopila journey. “I actually came down to Surkhet to live with my brother after my parents passed away. Kopila Valley School guided me toward the light through the darkest times of my life.” He was also welcomed into the care of Kopila Valley Children’s Home in 2014.
“Before the Children’s Home, I had never known what it meant to finally settle down. Village life is always difficult, you work tirelessly on the field until the sun disappears into the night. After the village chapter of my life I had a place to stay, but I did not really feel welcome there.
“The Children’s Home became my first home, where I was just a young kid who was responsible to study, build my extra curricular activities, and make future goals. I didn’t even know I had future goals in my life until I actually thought about it. Having a home spirited my daydreams to life.”
He reflects how his life had been in a challenging situation with disasters and troubles, and maybe that brought a new life in the disguise of a welcoming home and a loving family. Keshav not only thrived but became a real gentleman who is kind-hearted, real, and beyond amazing.
Giving Back at Kopila
“I live so close to the Children’s Home now. I am blessed that I can go there and spend time with my small sisters and brothers. The way I see it, it all comes down to being harmonious with life, to be in accord with the way things truly are. Even though life comes face to face with difficulties. I think I am meant to be a part of Kopila forever. I love it!”
Keshav is an older brother that many of our children look up to. An older brother they seek for wise decisions and advice. He is a soccer star, but wins a medal for the best brother.
His one advice to his sisters and brothers is;
“As ordinary beings, we are not so ordinary. We are extraordinary if we, regardless of how diverse and different we may be, find an urge that drives us towards our goals, as budding Kopilas. I see this as a method to wake us all up. Never forget the unique spirit of the Kopila Valley. You are not just receiving an education; you are becoming part of a legacy. Carry forward the values of compassion, empathy, and community. Be the change you wish to see in the world, and let the ripple effect of your actions leave an unbinding mark on this earth.”
We are thrilled to have one of our very own Kopila Valley School graduates write this guest blogger series and share alumni stories! Anjali Karki graduated in 2019 and is pursuing a Bachelor's Degree in Journalism along with a journalism career. We can’t wait to see what each of these world-changers does next. Follow us on social media with the series hashtag (#NarrateYourKopilaStory) for more about these young adults and their adventures.