Nepal
Client
Himalayan Life, Switzerland / Canada
In April 2018, I was privileged to photograph the opening of a school in the earthquake-damaged Yangri Valley for Himalayan Life . On another trip, I visited most of Himalayan Life's projects with Ursula and my friends Christian Habermeier and Denise Wiltse. We created film and photo material for this wonderful NGO's communication channels:
In Pokhara
In Pokhara, Himalayan Life has built Nepal's only PET recycling facility. This is done to create jobs for street boys and thus open up future prospects for them. The boys also have the opportunity to complete an apprenticeship. Himalayan Life also offers programs in Pokhara where kids can play together and participate in sports.
Yangri
The entire Yangri Valley was severely affected by the 2015 earthquake in the Kathmandu region. Many people died and countless others were left homeless. In the initial phase, Himalayan Life helped rebuild homes and infrastructure. But education is one of the key factors for making a long-term impact. Therefore, in 2018, Himalayan Life opened a school in the valley's remotest village, where children from Yangri and the surrounding mountain villages receive an education. The entire community supports this project. Tragically, the school was virtually completely destroyed by a spring tide on the night of June 14-15, 2021. Parents begged the teachers to stay. To contribute to the reconstruction, we launched the 750_Yangri project, and we are delighted that the school's reconstruction is almost 100% funded. You can learn more about Yangri and Himalayan Life's commitment to this beautiful valley in our film "Transformation."
Chitwan
Chitwan is located in the very south of Nepal, and with its tropical climate, it doesn't necessarily fit the usual image we have of Nepal. Himalayan Life also offers many sports and social programs here. The floorball game in the jungle on the sandy ground was definitely one of the greatest sporting events of my life.
Ladakh
Many Nepalis live in exile in Ladakh, northern India. Their parents work in difficult construction conditions. They move like nomads from construction site to construction site, often living in tents, even though temperatures often drop into the double-digit minus range in winter. To ensure the children receive an education, Himalayan Life has opened a home where they can be. They not only receive food and a place to sleep, but also experience respect and love.
