Educate . Empower . Enable
Former President Barack Obama and Sanam Sherpa
OUR MISSION
The Small World is a non-profit dedicated to supporting locally driven, sustainable community development projects in Nepal 🇳🇵
These initiatives provide education for children - especially young girls at risk of exploitation - while also breaking down traditional barriers to girls' education, fostering empowerment within local Nepali communities, and working to end deep-rooted cycles of poverty.
The Small World’s mission is to educate, empower, and enable current and future generations to drive positive change in the world
THE OBAMA FOUNDATION
Girl’s Opportunity Alliance: Dechen’s Story
The Small World is a proud member of The Obama Foundation’s Girl’s Opportunity Alliance program.
Former First Lady, Michelle Obama, recently shared how moved she was by Dechen’s story about her dad’s (Karma Sherpa) work to educate and uplift girls in Nepal.
As Dechen says, "My dad tells me to dream big, and I do. I’m proud that The Small World is helping girls in Nepal chase their dreams, too."
ONGOING PROJECTS
Community Initiative & Volunteer-Based Projects
Our ongoing projects begin by listening to locals and identifying real community needs. We collaborate with community members and volunteers to co-create solutions rooted in local ideas and shared resources. Together, we build projects that are meaningful, sustainable, and truly needed.
Arhaus Children’s Home >
A safe community in Solukhumbhu for vulnerable boys and girls. Here, they can heal, grow, and receive a quality education.
Himalayan Hope Home >
A protection center in Kathmandu where girls are provided with shelter, parental care, love, and every educational opportunity.
Seeds of Hope: Agricultural Aid >
Promoting sustainable agricultural practices and reducing food insecurity for disadvantaged, low-income communities and single mothers.
Girl’s Higher Education >
Providing young Nepali women with a safe space to pursue higher education, achieve their dreams, and uplift their communities.
Phuleli Commmunity Health Center >
Bringing accessible, quality healthcare for all age groups to rural communities in Solukhumbhu, Nepal.
Weaving for Empowerment >
Teaching women marketable skills to become financially independent while preserving the tradition of colorful Nepali weaving.
Proud To Be A Girl >
A protection center in Kathmandu where girls are provided with shelter, parental care, love, and every educational opportunity.
SPONSOR A CHILD IN NEED
To educate a child, is to educate the world . . .
Yet many in Nepal lack this opportunity. Our Education Sponsorship Program helps bridge this gap, supporting children while keeping them connected to their families, schools, and communities for a lasting impact.
Founder’s Message
It is my great pleasure to celebrate the 20th anniversary of The Small World!
Over the years, we have brought positive change to rural Nepal through sustainable infrastructure, women’s empowerment, and education for countless children—thanks to our generous donors, volunteers, and dedicated communities.
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and Nepal Floods, more children are at risk. Now, more than ever, we are intensifying our efforts to ensure education and protection for these children from trafficking, poverty, and abuse. Through Arhaus Home, we provide shelter and education for orphans, while our Child Education sponsorship program supports children’s education within their families.
We believe in creating opportunities, taking responsibility, and giving back to the community. All of our projects are community-owned, with active participation from local residents in both decision-making and implementation. This model fosters a strong sense of ownership and ensures the long-term sustainability of our initiatives.
Thank you and Namaste for your unwavering support!
Karma Sherpa
GET INVOLVED
Work with us to make a difference
TSW Travel Adventures >
Customized trips for enthusiastic travelers! Combining spectacular views, meaningful cultural exchanges, and physically challenging experiences.
Volunteer >
Work side by side with other volunteers and locals! Share your skills and knowledge, or just your enthusiasm and dedication to help the Nepali community.
Donate & Fundraise >
Raising money, no matter how small or large, is a splash in the pond that ripples positive energy throughout the communities we serve.