From the heart of America’s melting pot arises a tale of resilience and triumph within the Bhutanese-Nepali community. It’s a story of an individual, against formidable odds, weaving dreams into the very fabric of the American landscape. Uprooted from their homeland and confronted with the harsh realities of displacement, this person’s journey to the United States is a testament to perseverance and the unwavering pursuit of the American Dream. It’s not just a story of survival; it’s a testament to the indomitable human spirit that flourishes amidst adversity.
The following article is a condensed narrative of our conversation with Ashis Dhakal.
Ashis, Could You Share Your Story? The Bhutanese-Nepali community traces its heritage back to the late 19th century, when our ancestors settled in southern Bhutan. However, in the 1980s, Bhutan’s government began implementing policies favoring the dominant Drukpa culture, inadvertently marginalizing our Lhotshampa community of Nepali descent. This led to escalating tensions, ultimately resulting in the forced expulsion of the Lhotshampa population in the 1990s.
Driven from our homeland, thousands sought refuge across the border in Nepal and India, becoming Lhotshampa refugees. I was born and raised in a refugee camp in Jhapa, Nepal, where life was a daily struggle against ethnic cleansing, poverty, and deprivation. Despite the hardships, my family instilled in me the importance of education and resilience.
What Was Your Experience Like Upon Arriving in America? Arriving in the U.S., I was struck by the stark contrast in living conditions. The abundance and opportunities here were beyond anything I had imagined in Nepal. However, adapting to this new environment came with its own set of challenges. I faced bullying in school and grappled with the disparity between my past and present realities.
Yet, I was driven by values instilled by my family: responsibility, community service, and knowledge acquisition. Joining leadership roles in school and scouting, I pushed myself out of my comfort zone, determined to make the most of the opportunities before me.
What Fuels Your Entrepreneurial Spirit? Witnessing my parents’ dedication to minimum-wage jobs inspired my entrepreneurial drive. From a young age, I ventured into business, selling items like garbage bags and candy. These experiences taught me self-reliance, perseverance, and the value of hard work.
Today, as the Founder of dhakalcompanyholdings, I aim to make a positive impact across various sectors, from real estate to education. My entrepreneurial journey is a testament to the possibilities inherent in the American Dream.
The American Dream Is Alive To everyone reading, I want to convey that the American Dream is attainable for all, regardless of background. It requires hard work, perseverance, and clarity of vision. In this country of boundless opportunities, success is within reach for those willing to seize it.
My journey from a refugee camp to entrepreneurship exemplifies this. No matter where you start or how daunting the path may seem, never lose sight of your dreams. Keep pushing forward, keep dreaming, and never give up.