Samjhana’s Journey of Strength and Purpose

Introduction

This International Women’s Month, we are honored to spotlight the extraordinary journey of Samjhana Tamang — a woman committed to justice, child protection, and community empowerment. As a Board Member and the Designated Safeguarding Officer at Rukmini Pratisthan, Samjhana stands as a fierce advocate for children’s rights and a voice for those who are silenced by injustice.

What makes Samjhana truly remarkable is her strength to rise from humble beginnings, her courage to challenge societal norms, and her relentless drive to protect and uplift others. She is not only a devoted professional but also a cherished friend and an inspiration to all who meet her. 

Samjhana Didi at the Rukmini Foundation Office

A Humble Beginning

Samjhana Tamang was born in 1991 in the quiet village of Kulekhani, just 16 miles from Pharping. Her father served in the Nepal Army, and her mother dedicated herself to raising their five children. Life was simple, but her father had bigger dreams for his children — dreams shaped by his own experience of being denied promotions due to a lack of formal education.

Determined to give his children the opportunity he never had, he moved the family to Pharping. There, he bought a small house and enrolled the children in school. While the older siblings attended private institutions, Samjhana was sent to a public school. At the time, she didn’t know the difference — all she knew was that she loved learning.

Looking back, Samjhana says, “I have no complaints. I’m proud of who I am today because my father made the decision to send me to school.” She now recognizes the financial strain her father must have endured to ensure his children got an education, and she is deeply grateful.

Samjhana Didi at her office.

Overcoming Discrimination

Adjusting to life in a new community wasn’t easy. The family often felt like outsiders, and subtle — and sometimes overt — discrimination was a part of their daily lives. One vivid memory stands out: as televisions were rare at the time, many would visit neighbors’ homes to watch shows. But when Samjhana and her siblings tried to join, they were made to feel unwelcome.

To shield his children from this humiliation, her father bought a small black-and-white TV — a luxury they could barely afford. Years later, those same neighbors began treating the family with kindness and respect.

This early experience taught Samjhana a lesson she carries with her today: never judge anyone based on their background, race, or financial status. Everyone deserves dignity — and the opportunity to thrive.

Samjhana with her parents

The Dancer at Heart

From a young age, Samjhana found joy in dancing. She participated in school events, choreographed routines for younger students, and dreamed of showcasing her talent. But like many traditional fathers, hers disapproved of dancing. Still, Samjhana pursued her passion quietly, attending practice sessions after school and entering competitions. One day, her school invited parents to a program where she was set to perform. Terrified, she danced anyway — and won first prize. To her surprise, her father beamed with pride. From that moment on, he never stood in her way again.

Education, Love, and Tough Choices

With renewed motivation, Samjhana passed her SLC (now SEE) exams and enrolled in higher secondary education at Arunodaya High School. She later pursued a BBS degree at Shikharapur Community College. During this time, her family faced another emotional blow — her elder sister eloped at the age of 14. It was a common practice in many rural areas then, but for her parents, it was a heartbreaking moment. Samjhana vowed not to repeat the same mistake. Yet life had its own plan. At 19, she fell in love with a young man from a nearby village. When her father began entertaining marriage proposals from wealthy families in Kathmandu, Samjhana knew she had to speak her truth. With honesty and resolve, she asked for her parents’ support in marrying the man she loved.

Though disappointed at first, her father recognized her maturity and determination. Eventually, he gave his blessing. Their wedding was a celebration of both love and mutual respect.

Motherhood and Multitasking

Shortly after enrolling in college, Samjhana learned she was pregnant. Life became a whirlwind of change — balancing studies, financial pressure, and a growing family. Despite the challenges, she pressed on, supported by a loving and encouraging husband.

Though she had to pause her college attendance, she continued studying from home, sitting for exams when she could. She didn’t pass all her subjects, but she didn’t let that stop her. Instead, she turned to the skills she already had to support her family.

Wearing Many Hats

Remembering her love for dance, Samjhana approached schools in her area and soon became a dance teacher at Dolphin Magic School in Pharping. But that wasn’t enough — she had bigger dreams.

She started a small photo studio near Dakshinkali temple and even began renting land to grow vegetables. At one point, she was managing a studio, farming, teaching, raising her son, and studying — all at once.

Today, she’s preparing to complete her Bachelor’s degree through a special exam offered by Tribhuvan University for students who couldn’t graduate on time. Her perseverance is nothing short of inspiring.

A Chance Abroad

When her brother-in-law, who worked in Israel, told her about a women-focused agricultural program, Samjhana took a leap of faith. Out of 250 applicants, she was one of only seven women selected.

In 2018, she traveled to Israel for the Cross-Border Agriculture Program, combining classroom learning and hands-on farming experience. The experience opened her eyes to what farming could be like with government support and fair pricing — a reality she wished existed in Nepal.

She returned a year later, filled with knowledge, inspiration, and savings — ready to make a difference back home.

A Voice for Her Community

After coming back, Samjhana ran for local office as Ward Chairperson — a bold move for any woman in a male-dominated political space. Though she didn’t win, her candidacy encouraged others to step up.

She began working with the Office of Women and Children, advocating for rights, providing training, and helping local farmers earn a livelihood. Alongside this, she became a certified Court Paper Writer and now runs her own office in Kathmandu.

Her husband, a Sub-Inspector in the Nepal Army, proudly supports her efforts. Together, they raise two children — a teenage son and a spirited young daughter.