The Bhutanese Leading the way.
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.
“Ten million ngultrum is a great accomplishment,” she said, emphasizing that the charity will continue its work.
Photo Credit: www.openingyourhearttobhutan.com
Draktsho, a school and vocational training center for children with disabilities, is entirely charity-based, relying on the generosity of donors. Ani explained that whatever funds the charity raises will be used to support Draktsho, ensuring the children’s education is secured.
“I hope the teachers’ accommodation block is completed, but more importantly, we must think about the ongoing operations of the school. People often forget that you can build buildings, but you must also think about the people inside them and their needs,” she said.
The trek was not without challenges. Ani described walking through heavy rain during a cyclone as the most difficult part. “During the time of the cyclone, when we were walking through very, very heavy rain, with dangerous conditions, mud, rivers, and slippery paths, it was the hardest time,” she said.
Upon reaching Trashigang, she delivered a speech at East Draktsho to mark the end of her journey, emphasizing that a true purpose is the real accumulation of merit and compassion, which gives life meaning. “I think the last 37 days have really taught me and Ugyen Tshering (Country Representative of Opening Your Heart to Bhutan) the truth of that, and I hope that all of us will remember,” she said.
East Draktsho Principal, Karma Garab, expressed how deeply humbled and inspired the school community feels by Ani Pema Deki’s dedication.
He said that her long and challenging journey is a powerful demonstration of compassion and faith in the children, and knowing she walked across Bhutan for Draktsho gives everyone at the school immense encouragement and hope. “It reminds our students, staff, and parents that they are not alone that there are people who genuinely care about their wellbeing and future,” he said.
He further said that her effort has strengthened their resolve to continue serving children with disabilities with even greater commitment.
The principal also highlighted the school’s ongoing needs. Facilities for learning and vocational training, assistive equipment, and classroom and hostel infrastructure all require improvement.
“We also face challenges in providing specialized therapy services, sufficient teaching learning materials,” he said, expressing hope that Ani Pema’s fundraising walk will help address these gaps and allow the children to learn, grow, and live with greater independence and dignity.
Ani expressed gratitude to her two guides and everyone who sent messages of support, both in Bhutan and abroad. “What I have learned is that we are stronger than we think and great peacefulness and satisfaction comes from being much to help others,” she said.
Though not Bhutanese by birth, Ani Pema Deki has shown that compassion, dedication, and the desire to make a difference know no borders.
Her journey presents that living for a cause beyond oneself brings fulfillment, peace, and a true sense of purpose.
In previous interviews, she shared that a life-changing experience during her career in investments led her to Bhutan in 2011, where she met Lama Nima Tshering. A year later, she became a nun, embracing a life of service and compassion while developing a deep connection to Bhutan.
Since founding Opening Your Heart to Bhutan in 2015, Ani Pema has donated over USD 1 million to support children with disabilities. The funds have been used for wheelchairs, building schools like East Draktsho, and training and paying teachers to ensure sustainable support.
Her charity continues to empower local communities and create an inclusive environment for children, while deepening her personal bond with the country.
This cause doesn’t mark the end, but an opening of people’s hearts to Bhutan. Donations are still open, and contributions can be made through the Opening Your Heart to Bhutan page.
For further information, contact the Country Representative, Ugyen Tshering, at +975 16 91 56 49 or oyhtbugyen.tshering1990@gmail.com.
