The Bhutanese Leading the way.
Ani Pema Deki, (Emma Slade, 58), is embarking on a remarkable journey that reflects a deep transformation in her life.
Known for her calm and inspiring presence, Ani Pema Deki’s trek along the Trans-Bhutan Trail is not just a physical challenge, but a testament to the deep personal evolution she has undergone over the years.
During a recent conversation with The Bhutanese, she shared her background, her connection to Bhutan, and her plans to cross the historic Trans-Bhutan Trail.
Background
Born into a career in investments, Ani Pema Deki’s life took an extreme turn during a business trip that led to an unimaginable experience when she was held hostage. “I don’t know whether I should consider this lucky or not,” she said. “But after I survived that incident, I had a profound thought.”
Ani Pema says that after her traumatic incident, she was “born to be less selfish” and that experience fundamentally changed her perspective on life and her role in the world.
She likely came to see life as more than just personal achievements or material gains, focusing instead on contributing to the well-being of others and living a life of purpose and connection. This quest led her to Bhutan in 2011, where she met Lama Nima Tshering, who profoundly influenced her path with his teachings.
A year later, in 2012, she took a life-changing step and became a nun.
When asked about her charity, Opening Your Heart to Bhutan, Ani Pema Deki shared the impactful work it has been doing for over a decade. “In 2015, I founded this charity, and since then, we’ve donated over USD 1 million to support children with disabilities in Bhutan,” she said.
The funds have been directed toward several critical initiatives. Ani Pema Deki explained that the donations have been used to provide wheelchairs, assist in the construction of specialized schools such as the East Draktsho School, and fund the training of teachers dedicated to special needs education. “We also ensure that salaries for special needs teachers are covered, creating sustainable support for the future,” she added.
Her charity continues to make a thoughtful impact, not only by providing essential resources, but also by empowering local communities and educators to support children with disabilities in Bhutan.
Connection to Bhutan
Ani Pema Deki shared her deep connection to Bhutan. “Ever since my mother spoke about Bhutan, I’ve always felt a deep connection to this place,” she explained.
This bond drew her back to Bhutan time and again, with each visit deepening her sense of connection and belonging. “I feel truly alive in Bhutan,” Ani Pema shared. “Though I do wish it were a little warmer.”
She also spoke of the impact Lama Nima Tshering had on her journey. “Lama Nima Tshering played a crucial role in shaping my path,” she said, reflecting on the deep influence his teachings had on her spiritual transformation.
Plans to cross the historic Trans-Bhutan Trail
Ani Pema has already completed the Haa to Paro section of the Trans Bhutan Trail, but the real challenge begins on 17th October this year, when she will start the full trek.
Ani Pema Deki chose October to begin her trek, giving herself an ample time to plan and prepare. “Before I embark on the Trans-Bhutan Trail, I want to practice walking in other mountains as well,” she shared, to be fully prepared for the challenge ahead.
With the determination to cross mountain passes and raise funds for children with disabilities in Bhutan, her journey is about to take on even greater significance.
When asked about her ambitious goal of walking the 403-kilometer-long Trans-Bhutan Trail and raising Nu 35 million for children with disabilities in Bhutan, Ani Pema Deki explained that the inspiration came from a deep, heartfelt place. “The idea just popped into my heart,” she shared. “Now, I feel that I have to do it.”
Reflecting on the challenges ahead, including the 12 mountain passes she will need to cross, she expressed her determination. “It’s a long journey, but it feels right,” she said. “I’ve traveled to some regions of the country, but I want to travel the entire length of Bhutan.”
She also hopes that her journey will inspire many others. As one of the first Buddhist nuns to travel the Trans-Bhutan Trail while wearing her robe, she sees her trek not only as a personal challenge but as a symbol of dedication and faith.
When asked about her journey so far, particularly the challenging route from Haa to Paro, Ani Pema shared that the trek has been both physically and mentally demanding. “I think it’s challenging,” she said. “I was informed that it’s similar to climbing Mount Everest up and down three times.”
Ani Pema Deki has faced physical challenges along her journey. “I’ve had a tough time breathing, at times, and my legs shiver as I descend,” she said. “But I won’t give up.’
For her, the mountains of Bhutan hold a special spiritual significance. “As a practitioner, the mountains of Bhutan are heaven for me,” she shared.
When asked about the international media coverage of her journey, including outlets like BBC and Sky News, Ani Pema Deki expressed her hope that it would significantly contribute to her fundraising efforts. “With such esteemed media outlets covering my journey, I believe the visibility will help us reach the targeted fund much sooner,” she said.
She also shared her desire for the trek to be documented. “I would love for this journey to be documented,” Ani Pema Deki continued. “BBC and Sky News will already be writing articles about it, and I’m hopeful that the attention will further inspire people to contribute to this important cause.”
Ani Pema also revealed her plans to collaborate with the Bhutan Toilet Organization (BTO), which has made significant contributions to special needs, particularly in designing accessible toilets. “The BTO has been instrumental in creating special toilets that are accessible to persons with disabilities,” she said.
As part of her charity’s mission, Ani Pema plans to provide accessible toilets to those in need along the Trans-Bhutan Trail. “If I come across any persons with disabilities who require these toilets, our charity will make sure they receive them, either before or after the trek,” she shared.
When Ani Pema learned that the trail ends at Trashigang, she was overjoyed. “I was so happy when I found out that the trail ends at Trashigang,” she said. “There, we have Drakstsho School, and I was thinking of celebrating the end of this journey there.”
The school, known for its commitment to children with disabilities, holds a special place in her heart, making it the perfect location to mark the conclusion of her transformative trek.
Even though the trek officially starts in October, Ani Pema Deki invites others to join her on this journey or contribute to the cause. People can reach out directly through her Facebook (Emma Slade) or Instagram (emma_slade_).
For further information, those interested can also contact the Country Representative of Opening Your Heart to Bhutan, Ugyen Tshering, at oyhtbugyen.tshering1990@gmail.com
