Tara Tamang
Tara Tamang’s journey is a poignant tale of resilience, hope, and transformation. Originally from the far eastern part of Nepal, in the Sindhupalchok district, Tara grew up in a region with limited infrastructure and opportunities. Despite these challenges, she was determined and ambitious, studying up until the 7th grade. Her dream was to become a teacher, but life had other plans.
In 2015, while Tara was at home cooking rice, a devastating earthquake struck Nepal. A beam fell on her back, trapping her underneath. “Many people in my village were killed immediately,” she recalls. Sindhupalchok was the epicenter of an aftershock, and while Tara was fortunate to survive, she was left permanently disabled. For four months, she was bedridden and found solace in writing poetry during her recovery.
Seeking treatment, Tara moved to Kathmandu, where she regained some mobility but remained unable to walk or move her back. The lack of roads and accessibility infrastructure in her home village made it impossible for her to return. Instead, she made the difficult decision to stay in Kathmandu permanently.
In Kathmandu, Tara looked for support from various NGOs. She heard about EPSA from a friend who had successfully found work after receiving training there. In 2021, Taara joined EPSA, marking a turning point in her life. “I lived a very dark life for the six years between my injury and finding EPSA,” she says, reflecting on her past struggles.
At EPSA, Tara found a supportive community and learned new skills. She quickly mastered knitting, a craft she had never tried before. Now, she proudly states, “I am happy, everybody here loves me, and I am able to make an income.” Beyond knitting, Taara is also a talented singer and songwriter, sharing her voice and songs on TikTok. She even performed a self-composed song about disability during EPSA’s 2022 International Disabled Day event, spreading awareness and hope through her music.
Tara’s story is a testament to the power of community, support, and the opportunities provided by organizations like EPSA. From the darkness of her past, she has emerged into a life filled with love, creativity, and financial independence. Her journey continues to inspire many, proving that with resilience and the right support, even the most challenging circumstances can lead to a brighter future.