Keith Brook joined one of our meetings to tell us about the charity RNV Nepal and the work that it is doing in Nepal
Keith has been leading groups to Nepal for 24 years, and over that time, his visits have transformed not only the communities they serve, but also those who join them on these journeys.
His team focus primarily on the Kokhana community in the southern region of Kathmandu, a poorer village area where their efforts in education and welfare have made a significant impact.
Each year, groups from the UK travel to Kokhana to spend time teaching in local schools, which has proven to be a life-changing experience for many participants. One of their proudest accomplishments is the Peace Garden English School, a thriving educational institution they’ve helped establish and support through fundraising. Their efforts have also led to new classrooms, essential supplies like reading glasses for students, and countless other improvements to the learning environment.
The charity’s projects extend well beyond education alone. Key initiatives include:
- Emergency relief following natural disasters, such as earthquakes, landslides, and flooding
- Micro-loans to support local entrepreneurship
- Training for small-scale business startups
- Programs to alleviate drug dependency
- Support for young people in education and training
- Assistance for leprosy sufferers
- Care for orphans
- Promotion of girls’ education and opportunities
- Medical care for those who cannot afford it
The inspiration behind RNVNepal came from a school trip organised by Keith when he was teaching at Birkdale School in Sheffield, whose motto, “Res Non Verba” (“Deeds Not Words”), reflects the spirit of the charity’s mission. Over the years, this motto has guided Keith and his team to make tangible impacts in the communities they serve.