Inspiring Dreams: Didi Program and Graduation Ceremony

By Usha Adhikari

On July 4, 2026, the Rukmini Foundation organized a Didi Program, followed by the Graduation Ceremony for our Grade 12 Bahinis. A total of 78 participants attended the event alongside the Rukmini Didis. The program provided an opportunity for the Bahinis to learn from inspiring role models, celebrate the graduates' achievements, and strengthen the bonds within the Rukmini Foundation family.

The Guest Speaker: Dr. Soni Srivastav

Our guest speaker was Dr. Soni Srivastav, a doctor specializing in diabetes care, currently residing in Pennsylvania, USA. Outside of her medical practice, she enjoys dancing and reading. During the program, she shared her inspiring life story with the Bahinis.

Dr. Soni was born in Patan and is the only child of her parents. She completed her early education at Amar Shishu School in Kupondole. Her father worked as an agronomist, and her mother is a botanist. When she was five years old, her family moved to Africa because of her father's work. She spent four years in Botswana, returned to Nepal for a year, and then moved back to Zanzibar for another year before eventually returning to Nepal to continue her education. Living across different countries broadened her cultural understanding, but it also presented challenges like language barriers, cultural differences, and loneliness.

As a child, Dr. Soni dreamed of becoming a teacher, an engineer, or a dancer. However, after witnessing the health challenges faced by so many, she realized that working in the medical field was the most impactful way to help others.

After completing her Intermediate of Sciences, she applied for the MBBS entrance examination. Though she did not pass on her first attempt, she remained determined and succeeded on her second try through hard work.

During medical school, she found deep inspiration in a classmate who successfully managed her studies, hospital duties, household responsibilities, and two children. Watching her classmate balance so many responsibilities taught Dr. Soni that any challenging goal is achievable with dedication and perseverance.

While pursuing her dream, several relatives tried to discourage her from pursuing a career in medicine. They believed that becoming a doctor was difficult for girls because they would have to work with male colleagues and perform night duties. Fortunately, her parents always trusted and supported her, giving her the confidence to follow her dream.

After earning her MBBS from Teaching Hospital in Maharajgunj, Kathmandu, she began practicing in Nepal as a medical doctor. At age 28, she married Dr. Sanjay Yadav, and the couple later moved to the United States.

Dr. Soni emphasized that nothing is impossible if we continue to work hard and believe in ourselves. She also shared an important message about the value of family support. She explained that when family members encourage and believe in us, we can achieve our goals. She feels grateful that both her parents and later her husband supported her education and career. Because her husband shared family responsibilities and encouraged her professional growth, she was able to balance both her work and family life successfully.

Question and Answer Session

Bahinis actively participated in an interactive question-and-answer session:

• Sunita asked when Dr. Soni got married, how many children she has, and her current age. Dr. Soni shared that she married at age 28, is now 45 years old, and has one son and one daughter.

• Kamala asked about her work in the United States. Dr. Soni explained that she works in a hospital in Pennsylvania, treating patients with diabetes and thyroid-related diseases.

• Hira asked whether it was difficult for girls to study medicine during her time and who supported her decision. Dr. Soni replied that although many relatives discouraged her, her parents always encouraged her to pursue her dream.

• Another Bahini asked whether she had ever felt that she could not complete medical school. Dr. Soni answered that she never lost confidence because becoming a doctor had always been her dream.

• Krshima Balami asked, "What does success mean to you?" Dr. Soni explained that success is different for every person and changes throughout different stages of life. As a student, getting good grades felt like success. Later, becoming a doctor became her definition of success. Today, she believes that having a healthy and happy family is her greatest success.

Cultural Celebrations

After the storytelling session, Bahinis presented cultural performances for about 30 minutes. Since Dr. Soni had mentioned that dancing is one of her hobbies, Bahinis invited her to join them. Dr. Soni happily danced with Bahini Bijeshwari, creating a joyful and memorable moment for everyone. Hira sang a beautiful song, and Furshang from Kalidevi School performed an energetic dance that was greatly appreciated by all participants.

Graduation Ceremony

Following the Didi Program, Rukmini Foundation celebrated the graduation of Bahinis who had completed Grade 12. This year, all eight Bahinis successfully passed their higher secondary education, making it a proud and joyful milestone for the Rukmini Foundation family.

Usha Adhikari welcomed the participants and shared the objectives of the program. The graduates were honored with tika, a diary, a pen, and a flower bouquet as tokens of love and appreciation. These gifts were presented by Dr. Soni Srivastav and RF staff members Usha, Sabina, and Sanjita.

Six graduates shared their experiences and future plans:

Bimala Tamang received support from Grade 6 through Grade 12. She said that every program helped her learn something new and encouraged the younger Bahinis never to miss Rukmini's programs because they provide valuable life lessons. She plans to pursue a Bachelor of Education at Shikharapur Campus.

Manika Tamang also received support from Grade 6 to Grade 12. She shared that the Didi Program was her favorite because it always inspired her. She plans to study the Japanese language and hopes to work and continue her future in Japan.

Prerana Purkuti received support from Grade 9 to Grade 12. She said that one of the best parts of being in the Rukmini Foundation was having Didi Mentors who listened to her problems and supported her. She plans to continue her bachelor's studies in Kathmandu while staying with her cousin and working part-time.

Anjana Tamang received support from Grade 9 to Grade 12. She expressed her gratitude for the many opportunities provided by the Rukmini Foundation. She especially appreciated the regular school and home visits from the RF team, who always listened to her concerns and helped solve her problems. She plans to study the Japanese language and continue her education in Japan.

Shristi Ghatani received support from Grade 8 to Grade 12. She encouraged the younger Bahinis to participate in every program organized by the Rukmini Foundation because each program provides valuable learning experiences. She plans to continue her bachelor's studies at Shikharapur Campus.

Gurans Pariyar received support from Grade 11 to Grade 12. She shared that the different programs organized by Rukmini Foundation helped build her confidence and taught her many practical life skills beyond the school curriculum. Her dream is to become a doctor, and she is currently preparing for the MBBS entrance examination.

My Reflection

Even though this program was organized and managed by only three Didi Mentors—Sabina, Sanjita, and I—the program was successful and enjoyable.

One of the most encouraging moments for me was seeing the Bahinis confidently come forward to sing, dance, ask questions, and share their talents without hesitation. Their willingness to participate showed how much their confidence and leadership have grown through their involvement in Rukmini Foundation programs.

Another meaningful moment was listening to the Grade 12 graduates encourage the younger Bahinis to attend every program organized by Rukmini Foundation. They shared how these activities had positively influenced their lives and motivated the younger girls to take full advantage of every opportunity. Their words reflected maturity, gratitude, and leadership. Seeing them become role models for the younger Bahinis made me feel that they are now ready to mentor and inspire the next generation of girls.

With gratitude,

Usha Adhikari
Executive Director
Rukmini Pratisthan