Agency: Ani Pema Deki, with her ‘A Woman with Altitude,’ campaign has completed her heartfelt walk across Bhutan, carrying with her the prayers, stories, and hopes of children with disabilities to whom she dedicated her entire journey.
As part of her preparation for the campaign Ani Pema Deki (Emma Slade, 59) completed the Haa to Paro section of the Trans-Bhutan Trail, but the real challenge began on 17th October this year when she embarked on the full trek.
Over 37 days, she completed the 403-kilometer Trans-Bhutan Trail, crossing 12 mountain passes from Haa to Trashigang. As she had shared previously, learning that the trail ends in Trashigang, home to Draktsho School, brought her immense joy and a desire to celebrate the conclusion of her journey there.
The campaign was also a fundraising mission. According to Opening Your Heart to Bhutan, the cause has raised approximately Nu 10 million (mn) from international and local donors. While this falls short of the Nu 35 mn target, it reflects the deep compassion and solidarity Ani feels for Bhutanese children with disabilities.
Every step she took inspired many to come forward, sending a powerful message of hope and kindness across the country.
Reflecting on her journey, Ani told The Bhutanese that she feels peaceful and happy knowing she has done something meaningful. “I feel quite amazed that we managed to do it because it was quite hard,” she said, adding that the trek reminded her of the strength of compassion and what can be achieved when people unite for a worthy cause.
She remains hopeful that her charity will raise more than the current Nu 10 mn. “I think some more donations will still come in, and when the documentary comes out, maybe some more donations will come,” she said.
A documentary on her journey is expected to be released by mid next year, which she believes will help generate even greater support and awareness.
Ani described raising 100,000 pounds as a great accomplishment and an important milestone for the cause. “This secures the future of Draktsho,” she said, adding that discussions with the charity trustees will determine whether they aim to raise more funds.