In the quiet, emerald valleys of rural Nepal, where the morning mist clings to the terraced hillsides, dreams often face a steep climb. For many children, the path to school is blocked not by mountains, but by the weight of poverty. This is where the Asha Project’s Gift of Hope Scholarship program begins its story.Continue reading “The Gift of Hope: A Spark in the Himalayas”
Category Archives: Uncategorized
A Personal Reflection on World Newah Day & the Stupa of Enlightenment dedication
By: Enrica Bade, Youth Leadership Team Member of the FONNJMarch 29, 2026, New Jersey Buddhist Vihara, Princeton Walking into the New Jersey Buddhist Vihara that morning with my family felt like stepping into a piece of home, not the physical home we live in now, but the home carried in our memories, our stories, andContinue reading “A Personal Reflection on World Newah Day & the Stupa of Enlightenment dedication”
Highlights of the Momo and Music Program: Unity and Tradition
By: Enrica Bade, Event Feature , Youth Leadership Team Member, FONNJ Located in the American Italian Club in Scotch Plains, the annual Momo and Music Program– hosted by Friends of Nepal, NJ (FONNJ)– was radiating with unity, merriment, and honor. The vibrant music and food brought an unforgettable memory to many, including me, in whichContinue reading “Highlights of the Momo and Music Program: Unity and Tradition”
Life and Legacy of the first women Judge in Nepal – Hon. Sharada Shrestha
Justice Sharada Shrestha: A Legacy Forged in Determination and Duty Part I: The Catalyst for Justice and the Tutor’s Path My first English tutor was Justice Sharada Shrestha, Nepal’s first woman judge—a figure whose history was driven by a fierce, personal conviction. The path she chose was not accidental; it was forged by a singular,Continue reading “Life and Legacy of the first women Judge in Nepal – Hon. Sharada Shrestha”
Bringing Nepal to New Jersey
Honoring Life and Culture at Ajimama’s Janko By Jaysna Tuladhar Growing up in Western culture, where youthfulness is revered, we do not get to see a lot of events that celebrate and respect older people. It was, therefore, a refreshing surprise when I came to know about “Janko”. Janko is a time-honored Newari tradition, celebratedContinue reading “Bringing Nepal to New Jersey”
Humanitarian Awards & Recognition 2025
Humanitarian Awards Recognition 2025. A core part of the anniversary was the presentation of Humanitarian Awards to honor long-term service and leadership. These awards are historically presented in collaboration with Rotary Districts 3292 Nepal and 7475 New Jersey (formerly 7510). 2025 Humanitarian Award winners are: Siba Bhakta Rajbhandari – Humanitarian service work for the lastContinue reading “Humanitarian Awards & Recognition 2025”
2025: A Journey of Honor, Heritage, and Humanity
Honoring a Legacy: Gen Z. MemorialThis year was profoundly marked by the passing of Gen Z. who were trying to bring law of rule in Nepal. We honored their life through a moving Memorial Service followed by the traditional 13th Day Celebration. This sacred ritual allowed us to gather in community, offering prayers for hisContinue reading “2025: A Journey of Honor, Heritage, and Humanity”
New Jersey to Welcome Raju Lama
In celebration of FONNJ & Asha Project’s 36th Anniversary. Raju Lama is a celebrated Nepalese singer-songwriter, best known as the lead vocalist of the legendary pop-rock band Mongolian Heart. Since his debut in the early 1990s, he has become one of the most recognizable voices in Nepal, blending pop melodies with cultural influences. MusicalContinue reading “New Jersey to Welcome Raju Lama”
How Music and Humanity Inspired Project Neeharika
MY STORY BEHIND PROJECT NEEHARIKA Since I was a child, music has been close to my heart. My dad’s huge interest in music always filled our home with melodies. I grew up singing alongside him, learning to play instruments, and discovering my own love for music. My mom is a humanitarian worker. She has dedicatedContinue reading “How Music and Humanity Inspired Project Neeharika”
“BRIDGING CULTURES: 47 Years of Rotary Short Term Youth Exchange Magic!”
In the vast tapestry of over 220 countries and territories, Rotary shines as a BEACON OF HOPE and a CATALYST FOR CHANGE. Celebrating 47 years of the Youth Exchange program between New Jersey District 7475 and Shikoku, Japan District 2670, we take immense pride in our unwavering commitment to EMPOWERING STUDENTS and FOSTERING LASTING CHANGEContinue reading ““BRIDGING CULTURES: 47 Years of Rotary Short Term Youth Exchange Magic!””
Celebrating 35 Years Of Humanitarian Service In Nepal
Two Little Girls Collecting Coins In 1988, on his morning walk, Dr. Tulsi Maharjan found two little girls collecting coins at the famous Chovar temple in the Nepalese city of Patan. “Why are they not in school?” he asked. People told him their parents couldn’t afford school. How much did it cost? $25 per childContinue reading “Celebrating 35 Years Of Humanitarian Service In Nepal”
“Finding Peace in the Middle of Central New Jersey”
By: Chelsea Dawson When I was 20 years old I got a babysitting job in Princeton, New Jersey. Every night I would drive home and spot this giant Buddha head within the woods but always wondered what it was. After visiting Thailand in 2017, I fell in love with Buddhism and the practice of kindnessContinue reading ““Finding Peace in the Middle of Central New Jersey””
The Asha Project 