Mitrata sponsors gathered in Kathmandu for a warm evening of shared stories and smiles as they met the children they support. Over dinner, sponsors and children connected face-to-face, laughed, played games, danced, and learned about each other’s lives.
From left to right: Deb, Sujita and John
“Well, I really didn’t expect the emotions I felt when I first embraced Sujita! After 12 years of writing her, receiving her letters, seeing her photos and videos and hearing stories about her, I wasn’t prepared for what I would feel when I saw her and held her in my arms. No words can describe that feeling. I wasn’t prepared and very overwhelmed. Sujita is amazing and I am so very happy that I finally got to meet her. I imagine that this will be the trip’s highlight for me.”
From left to right: An Tran and Samjhana
“It was wonderful to finally meet Samjhana in person! I recognized her right away when we arrived at the restaurant for dinner. She was the same beautiful girl with the sweet, lovely smile, but she had grown up so much and was now taller than me! We hugged like old friends who hadn’t seen each other in years. We chatted about the festival and her daily activities, and enjoyed a delicious meal, some of which Samjhana also cooks at home. We also enjoyed the folk music and dances there. Later, we joined the group on stage to dance, holding hands much of the time. It was such a joyful evening, and I was so happy to share these moments with her.”
From left to right: Len, Nanuma and Vera
“Meeting Namuna was a most joyous experience. While waiting for our many courses of a fabulous meal we played games and laughed. The evening was all smiles especially when she took my hand for the traditional dance on the stage. I am so happy that I met my lovely Nepali daughter. I am filled with gratitude.”
The event deepened relationships, strengthened the community of support, and reminded everyone that sponsorship is more than financial help—it’s a personal commitment to a child’s education and well-being.