Testimony of Durga Shrestha, a Beneficiary of Setu Nepal
“I received a completely new perspective that allowed me to see life in an entirely optimistic way. I changed—irreversibly, forever. My soul is richer. My heart, once full of sorrow, is now filled with hope and determination to lead a meaningful life. Thanks to Setu, this journey marked a decisive turning point, and I feel immense gratitude.”
Diagnosed with HIV in 2009, I felt broken and depressed. But joining Setu’s income-generation training in 2010 sparked my revival. With the seed money provided, I bought two goats and saw them multiply to four. Later, I ventured into selling tea and snacks at Hetauda bus station, overcoming competition, space restrictions, and periodic restrictions from local authorities.
My dedication earned me a place in entrepreneurship training in 2015, where I learned essential business skills. Using a small loan, I expanded my food stand. Eventually, I repaid the loan, reinvested in the business, and was honored with the title Best Entrepreneur of 2015. In 2016, I was invited to serve as a role model during the apprenticeship program.
Today, I earn around NPR 2,000 daily and save about NPR 35,000 each month. I own the food stand outright and have purchased land valued at NPR 2 million—assets that guarantee my family’s future. What once was a life clouded by illness and hopelessness has transformed into one of dignity, confidence, and independence. My husband now supports me, and together we share responsibilities—something that felt impossible before.
“Before the training, I was frustrated, blaming my husband and cursing life. But after participating in the program, I saw the light at the end of the tunnel. Today, I consider myself successful, and my family is happy again… The courage to live with my head held high is the greatest gift Setu ever gave me.”