Introduction:

Dawa Lama is a social leader dedicated to education, community empowerment, skills development and sustainable opportunities. His journey from a rural childhood marked by economic hardship and limited educational opportunities has strongly influenced his commitment to social service.

Born and raised in Ngarku village, Sindhupalchok District. He grew up as the eldest of five sons, carrying family responsibilities from an early age and unable to attend formal school during his early years.

Having personally experienced the challenges created by poverty and lack of access to education. He sought informal learning opportunities instead, studying Buddhism and the traditional art of Thangka painting. This skill later took him to Kathmandu and India for artistic and religious work, and eventually to South Korea where he became involved with Buddhist and Nepali community organizations, gained leadership experience and worked alongside people from many nationalities and professional backgrounds.

These experiences strengthened his belief that education, skills and community cooperation can create meaningful social change. Under his leadership, Good Hands Nepal was established in 2011 with the goal of helping children and young people access education and practical opportunities.

While he remains deeply connected to his Hyolmo cultural roots, his vision for development is national in scope – he believes that Nepal’s progress depends on ensuring that opportunities reach people from all communities and backgrounds. Beyond Good Hands Nepal, his work and interests have also included Good Hands Social Enterprises, supporting livelihood and employment opportunities for women trained in vocational and tailoring skills; sustainable tourism, as President of the Helambu Tourism Development Foundation and community and cultural service including roles with the Nepal Hyolmo Social Service Association, HEACOP and the Bishal Media Group.

 “Success becomes meaningful when it creates opportunities for others.”