In this Human Rights Voices feature, The Global Humanitarian speaks with Timothy Dangal from Himalayan Youth Transformation (HYT), a non-governmental organization founded in 2020 and based in Lalitpur, Nepal. HYT is dedicated to empowering youth, supporting orphaned and underprivileged children, and uplifting marginalized communities through education, leadership, and care. HYT provides scholarships, builds children’s homes, offers emotional and material support, and conducts youth and children’s programs in remote areas across Nepal.
Can you tell us about your organization and the human rights issues you focus on?
HYT focuses on the rights of children and youth—especially those without parental care or living in extreme poverty. Our work aims to ensure every child has access to basic needs like education, shelter, emotional support, and safety. We also empower young people through skill development, leadership training, and community involvement.
What inspired you to start this organization?
I spent 11 years in an orphanage as a child, and I understand what it feels like to grow up without support, guidance, or a sense of belonging. That experience inspired me to build something that could offer what I never had—care, opportunity, and a sense of family for children in similar situations.
Why is this work so important in today’s world?
Many children and youth in Nepal are still growing up without access to basic rights or opportunities. Without intervention, they face risks like child labour, trafficking, and lifelong poverty. Our work is about changing that reality and giving them a foundation to build a better future.
Can you share a particularly impactful experience from your work?
During the 2023 floods, many families lost everything—including their homes and access to food. Even though our own center was damaged, our team came together to feed over 500 people daily. That moment reminded me that even in hard times, we can serve others with what we have.
What are some of the biggest challenges your organization faces?
Funding is a constant challenge. We often work in rural places where infrastructure is lacking. Building safe homes, maintaining programs, and reaching those in need all require resources we don’t always have—but we keep going because the impact is worth it.
What keeps you motivated, despite the challenges?
The smiles on the children’s faces and the changes we see in their lives give us strength. Seeing a child go from hopelessness to confidence is one of the greatest rewards. That transformation keeps us moving forward.
What is something you wish more people understood about this type of work?
This work is not just about giving—it’s about partnership and respect. The people and children we serve have resilience, strength, and potential. We are here to walk alongside them, not above them.
How do you see your organization evolving over the next few years?
We’re currently building a children’s home so that children without parents can live together in safety. In the future, we plan to expand these homes, start educational centers, and build youth leadership programs in more villages across Nepal.
How can people support your work—whether through donations, volunteering, or advocacy?
There are many ways to help: through donations, volunteering time or skills, or simply by spreading the word. Even the smallest contributions help us move closer to our goals—whether it’s a notebook, a meal, or a helping hand.
Is there a particular message you’d like to share with our readers?
Every child deserves a chance to grow up with love, care, and opportunity. If we come together—locally and globally—we can create that future for them.
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Please note: the views and opinions expressed on this blog are that of my own and do not represent the opinions of any agency mentioned.