On September 14, 2024, we gathered for *Voices of the Himalayas: Female Migrants’ Narratives*, a heartfelt and powerful event showcasing the inspiring journeys of immigrant and refugee women from Nepal, Tibet, and surrounding regions who now call Washington State home. Organized by Dabuli, this gathering gave voice to resilient women, illuminating the challenges and triumphs that come with building a life in a new land while staying connected to one’s heritage.

Led by Program Manager Chetana Shakya, *Voices of the Himalayas* featured both individual presentations and a dynamic panel discussion. Moderated by the distinguished Linda Iltis, a scholar with decades of research in South Asian culture, the panel invited speakers to dive deeper into shared experiences, exploring themes of cultural identity, community building, and personal resilience. Their stories shone a light on how cultural heritage can be a source of strength, offering unique perspectives on the immigrant experience and reinforcing the importance of cross-cultural understanding.

Through both individual presentations and the group discussion, the speakers highlighted their personal journeys—many of which include founding nonprofits, pioneering in technology, and making a mark in social services and the arts. Their voices, supported by a warm and engaged audience, illustrated the vibrancy and strength of Himalayan communities here in Washington and underscored the shared commitment to honoring and preserving cultural roots.

Our Esteemed Speakers
Prabina Bhandari – Technology Leader, STEM Advocate
Lila Ghising – Founder, Women’s Protection Center Nepal
Sharon Sherpa – Community Advocate, Former Model & Actress
Binita Joshi Shrestha – Entrepreneur, Former Journalist
Shreeya Dhakal – Applied Scientist, Nepali Women+ in Computing Founder
Namgyal Dolker Nanglo – President, Tibetan Association of Washington
Linda Iltis (Moderator) – Anthropologist and Comparative Religion Scholar

Each speaker’s unique journey inspired and fostered understanding within our community, reinforcing the value of shared narratives in building connections across cultures. As Dabuli looks ahead, we remain committed to supporting similar dialogues and creating spaces for more voices from the Himalayan diaspora. Stay tuned for upcoming events as we continue this meaningful journey of connection and celebration.