Untold Story: Gautam

But this is no ordinary classroom, and Gautam is no ordinary teacher. The class is made up of a combination of vulnerable children, child trafficking survivors and local fee-paying students, an unusual scenario in Nepal where caste and stigma often block access to education.

Then there is Gautam. When we met him, we were blown away by his story and his powerful commitment to helping children dream, grow and thrive.

Gautam himself has walked the same path as many of the students he now teaches. His journey, from hardship to hope, from student to teacher, is a living example of the impact that education can have on a life. His words are a reminder of what is possible when a child is given the opportunity to learn, and the safety to imagine a different future.

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and what you love doing outside of your work?

My name is Gautam, and I’m 21 years old. I’m truly grateful for the opportunities that have come my way through the support of Give Freedom International and 3 Angels Nepal. Outside of my work, I enjoy exploring new places, spending time in the garden, and being with my family. These activities help me stay grounded, refreshed, and connected to the things that matter most in my life.

How long have you been part of 3 Angels Nepal?

I’m proud to say that I’ve been a part of 3 Angels Nepal for the past 14 years.

What is your role at 3 Angels Nepal School?

I serve as a mathematics teacher at 3 Angels Nepal School, where I truly enjoy helping students understand and engage with the subject. Teaching is something I’m passionate about, and I especially love making learning fun and interactive. In addition to teaching, I also assist with various computer-related tasks whenever there’s a need, supporting the school in whatever way I can.

What inspired you to do this type of work, and what do you like about it?

Growing up as a child supported by 3 Angels Nepal and Give Freedom International, I was deeply inspired by the care, support, and opportunities I received. That experience motivated me to give back and be a positive influence in the lives of others, just as others were for me. 

Teaching at 3 Angels Nepal School allows me to do exactly that. What I love most about this work is seeing the spark in students’ eyes when they understand something new, especially in mathematics. I also enjoy being part of a team that’s making a real difference in children’s lives, helping them grow in both knowledge and confidence.

What role did education play in your life after experiencing hardship?

In my experience, education plays a powerful and transformative role, especially for someone like me who came from a background with limited opportunities. Education is what lifts us from places of oppression and gives us a chance to grow, dream, and succeed. It not only helps in personal development but also shapes our confidence, mindset, and future. 

For an orphan child like me, education has opened the door to possibilities we never imagined. It has allowed us to be seen, heard, and respected in society. We gain the courage to speak up for ourselves, find solutions to our problems, and make meaningful contributions to our community. Education doesn’t just change individuals, it changes families, communities, and the way society views people like us. It gives us the tools to become better versions of ourselves and, in turn, uplift others.

Were there any programs or people that assisted you in your journey toward greater stability?

Absolutely, there have been many people and programs that played a vital role in my journey toward greater stability. First and foremost, 3 Angels Nepal has been the foundation of my growth, providing me with a strong platform to learn and develop in a supportive environment. I’m especially grateful to Rajendra Uncle and Sarah Aunty, who have been like a backbone in my life. 

Their constant support, guidance, and belief in me have truly shaped the person I am today. Under their care and mentorship, I found direction, confidence, and purpose. I can honestly say that I stand here today as a different and stronger person because of them. I’m deeply thankful for everything they have done for me.

What role do you think education (community, family, student.) could have played in prevention, based on your experience?

Firstly, if my parents and society were educated, various aspects that led to my current circumstances could have been prevented. If the community is educated and learn to live in harmony, almost eighty percent of social issues could have been mitigated.

Education is the cornerstone for the development of society. Harmonious development of all the individuals in the society will empower the society. I view education as key to the prevention of trafficking and other social issues.

Education is what lifts us from places of oppression and gives us a chance to grow, dream, and succeed. It not only helps in personal development but also shapes our confidence, mindset, and future. 

How do you see education and this school changing your community?

Education is something that helps shape a person into who they truly are meant to be, but this school, 3 Angels Nepal School, has done so much more than just educate me academically. It has taught me life lessons that go far beyond textbooks. 

Here, we learn what it means to be a good human being: kind, responsible, respectful, and resilient. What makes this school so special is that it provides a truly holistic education. It focuses not just on academics, but also on the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual growth of each child. It builds character, confidence, and compassion. 

These are qualities that I believe are missing in many other schools. Because of this approach, I see change happening in our communities. Children are growing up with values and strength. They are going back to their families and neighborhoods as responsible, hopeful, and motivated individuals. 

The ripple effect is real. Educated children are helping to shape better families, and better families build stronger, more compassionate communities. This school is not just giving us knowledge, it’s creating a new generation of leaders and change makers. And I’m proud to be a part of that change.

What helps you find hope?

For me, hope comes from the people and experiences that have shaped my life. Growing up with the support of 3 Angels Nepal and Give Freedom International, I saw how love, care, and opportunity can completely change a person’s future. That gives me hope not just for myself, but for others who are still waiting for a chance. 

I also find hope in my students. Every time I teach and see them learning, growing, and dreaming bigger, it reminds me that change is possible. Their energy and potential inspire me to keep moving forward. Finally, my faith, family, and the small progress I see every day remind me that even in difficult times, there is always something to look forward to. Hope, for me, is built through gratitude, purpose, and the belief that brighter days are ahead.

What are you looking forward to in your future?

In my future, I am looking forward to growing both as a teacher and as a professional in the field of computer science, specifically in ethical hacking, which is my major. I want to continue making a positive impact in the lives of my students by helping them learn and develop, while also building my skills in cybersecurity to contribute to a safer digital world. 

Combining education and technology excites me because it allows me to support my community in multiple ways by empowering young minds through teaching and protecting information through ethical hacking. I also hope to create a stable and fulfilling life where I can give back to the organizations and people who have helped me grow. Ultimately, I want to inspire others to pursue their passions and contribute positively to society, proving that with education and determination, we can build a better future.

We’re asking for your urgent support to help us build three critical school buildings at the first step in The Pokhara Project. The school is vital in ensuring child survivors, and children at risk of trafficking have the safety, support and education they need to lead bright futures of possibility, just like Gautam.

Give Now to help us save the school.