PDRC’s student Hema Shreepaili received a gold medal from the government of Nepal for her outstanding academic performance. She scored highest marks in the 10th batch (2008- 2011) of three year’s bachelor’s program in hotel management. This coveted medal was awarded on the occasion of the 39th anniversary of NATHM.

In her honor, PDRC organized a felicitation function at its office in Kalanki, Kathmandu on 31st March 2012. PDRC board members and other invited guests including the students were present in the function. Speaking in the program, PDRC president Kamala Hemchuri told that Hema’s achievement is evidence that there are tremendously talented students in our community.”  She further adds, “They have to be nurtured in a special environment so that they emerge confident and competent human resource for nation-building.” Similarly, vice president Bhim B K advised her to keep working hard for greater accomplishments in the future.  NATHM representative Mr. Shiva P. Jaishi said that Hema is a disciplined student coupled with hard-working nature. Other board members also emphasized on her personal traits that helped her to achieve this success.

It is the most cherished moment for me. I am so excited and thrilled” Hema told to the august gathering. She further added, “By getting accepted to the EDD program, I feel like the luckiest person in the world. I wouldn’t have achieved this success without PDRC’s support. Therefore, this is a great honor, not only for me but for the PDRC who invested in me.” She encouraged students to develop a willingness and talent for learning, a positive attitude and a sense of responsibility to be a successful person in the chosen field of study.

PDRC supported her through its Empowering Dalit Daughters (EDD) project. This program aims at empowering Dalit daughters through academic excellence and leadership qualities. In 2006, 24 highly talented and motivated Dalit girls were selected across the country and they were brought to Kathmandu. PDRC sponsored their higher education at the top Nepali colleges and universities. It’s an initiative to break down cultural barriers about the roles of Dalit women in the society.

Having seen her exceptional talent, PDRC also sent her in Malaysia for six month’s internship at Hotel Holiday Inn in Malaysia. Currently, she is working in the Hotel de l’ Annapurna in the marketing department.