Our People Systems and Rewards Manager, Paula Holloway, tells Ensemble about a very special trip.

Recently, I had the chance to visit Bhutan – a small Himalayan country, tucked north of Bangladesh and just east of Nepal.

After the stunning scenery and climbing to Tiger’s Nest, one of the most meaningful parts of my trip was visiting a residential school in Rongthung, in the Tashigang District. The school supports 65 children with a range of special needs, which is run with the help of a UK charity called Opening Your Heart to Bhutan, founded by Emma Slade – who is also Gelongma Ani Pema Deki.

The first three things I noticed:  How difficult it was to get there, the stunning views from the school and most of all, the sound of laughter and smiling faces everywhere.

These children come from very remote areas – without access to teachers, schools, transport, or even basic services. Without this school, their lives would look very different.

They are now learning vocational, life, and social skills, each tailored to what they need. They’re also gaining something just as important: friendships, fun, and a sense of belonging. The school makes sure they take part in sports, games, cultural events – all the things that help a child grow and thrive.  They recently had an Art Camp and designed and painted a mural on one of the school’s walls.

Recent projects: paths to connect all parts of the school on the hillside, fresh water and washing facility areas, new mattresses, pillows and bedding for the dorms and also building an apartment block for the teachers.  Where they live may not be miles away, however on the tracks it takes ages to get around.

It’s all made possible through a network of generous support – from fundraising and donations to gifts of equipment and specialist items. On 17 October the charity’s founder, Emma, will begin a trek of 403 km across Bhutan (at altitude and in Buddhist robes) to raise money and awareness for the charity.  You can follow Emma’s progress on the Polarsteps App.

If you have a few spare moments, click on the QR code to find out more about the charity and how my niece and I have been fundraising. I walked from Whitby to Scarborough and held an afternoon tea, and my niece walked 100 miles to raise funds to make a brighter tomorrow for the kids.

Please find Opening Your Heart to Bhutan on Facebook and Insta and give them a follow to keep up-to-date with all the work they are doing.  Oh, and if you could please make a donation to my fundraising campaign I know you would help make a difference.  Simply, Thank You!