Interview Blog with Tilak Shrestha

House father, guardian to its children, and General Manager of the Hope Centre, Tilak Shrestha is an inspiration and guide to the children at the home. Having been at the Hope Centre since its beginnings, Tilak has seen many changes, both within the Centre, and in Kathmandu. We took some time to speak with him and find out just what life is like for the Hope Centre family and what hopes and aspirations he has for the future.

"Can you tell us a little bit about a typical day for the children and staff at the Hope Centre?"

"To start with, the day for both the children and the staff is typical. All the children go to school and college throughout the six days of the week. They are living life like other normal children who stay with their parents and family. We provide them a very homely environment.

Further to this, there is also a normal day for the staff. Everyone has their own duties to perform. The 4 outdoor staff spend 7 hours/day at the centre, whereas the 3 other residential staff stay at the Hope centre performing their duties alongside having personal time too (there is also an accountant who attends the Hope Centre on a part-time basis)."

"How has the Hope Centre and life in Kathmandu changed since the beginning of the home?"

"The Hope centre was established in 1997. You can automatically imagine how much has changed in 2 decades. In the context of the Hope Centre, many changes have been taken regarding technical, physical, & financial aspects. During the beginning phase of the Hope Centre it was financially challenging, with very low funds and few countable sponsors and volunteers. We barely managed basic needs for the Hope Centre family. But now, with all the support of beautiful souls, we have our own house with all the needed facilities. Children are educated at good and well known schools and colleges, and staff are being paid well and are happy to help the children.

In addition, Kathmandu valley has also changed a lot. Many developmental activities are carried out, but financial development has been dropped."

"What achievements of the Hope Centre and Hope Centre family are you most proud of?"

"The main objective of the Hope Centre is to positively change the lives of helpless children around the remote places of Nepal. We provide them all the safest place to build their future and create happy, healthy, and independent citizens of the nation. So, till today we've achieved so many successes in our journey. We have already created beautiful lives for nearly 15 children. We cannot forget to mention some of our Success Stories. To witness our children's happy & successful lives in itself makes a great achievement."

"Dance and festivals play a big part of life at the Hope Centre. Can you tell us a bit more about how you celebrate at the Hope Centre?"

"You know, festivals, singing, dancing and other religious activities/practices are the main culture and traditions of the Nepalese. The Hope Centre carries out the same culture and traditions since its establishment. We should never forget our culture and traditions. That's why, we celebrate every festival and enjoy it with singing, dancing, preparing delicious foods, following, and performing all the rituals. Celebration of festivals brings even more happiness and charms in every single child's face, which make celebrating festivals worth it. We also teach them about our culture and encourage them to follow the traditions."

"The Mandala House assisted-living building is a significant project for the Hope Centre. Can you tell us a little bit about your views about this novel project?"

"I'm certain that Mandala House will bring a positive difference to the Hope Centre. It's our dream project where needy individuals with disabilities receive more benefits and lead better lives. Mandala House is a disabled-friendly home, and according to the rules of the charity home, we should manage a separate residence for those who are over 18 years old and cannot live independently like our adults at the Hope Centre, such as Kumari, Pramila, and others. Therefore, Mandala House will be a sweet home for people like them."

"Do you have any visions or hopes for the future for the Hope Centre family?"

"We are always concerned about the future of the Hope Centre family. No matter how far we have come there's always a hope and trust of every one of us. Until they are working, we always do think about the future of the children. We'll continue on what we've been doing with all the support of yours. Furthermore, we would love to expand our work to different corners of Nepal where no helpline has reached."

"Is there anything you would like to say to those who have supported the Hope Centre over the years?"

"The Hope Centre family wants to express a deepest gratitude for your (all the New Futures team and  supporters) generous support and love. Your support has played a vital role in making a difference to the needy children's lives. We greatly appreciate your commitment and contribution to the Hope Centre.

Thank you.

Best regards,

Tilak"