Unsung Heroes: The Story of Reshma Bhattarai on World Humanitarian Day

Reshma’s interest into the humanitarian field began in 2011 while working part-time as a babysitter in the UK. Watching a documentary on the devastating effects of hunger and malnutrition on children in South Africa, she felt compelled to contribute to the cause. “Watching those children suffer made me realize how fortunate I was. I knew then that I had to do something to help,” Reshma recalls. This marked the beginning of her passion for supporting vulnerable communities, and she started donating a portion of her earnings to that charity.

After completing her studies in Strategic Management and Leadership, Reshma returned to her hometown of Kathmandu in 2014, determined to make a difference. Despite facing challenges in securing a job in the humanitarian sector, her perseverance paid off when she joined People in Need (PIN), which arrived as part of the rapid response following the earthquake that struck Nepal in 2015. Reshma remembers receiving the call from PIN while she was helping clear debris at a friend's home. "Amidst the chaos around me, I felt a sense of clarity and purpose," she shares.

She was assigned to Gorkha, the epicentre of the earthquake, for 10 days. “I worked from a tent because hotels weren't safe, and if there was any shock, we had to run for our lives. I joined PIN, but I didn't know what to do at first. I was told to take care of finances, but there were piles of bills I needed to sort. Thanks to Denisha, who was there from headquarters, she taught me how to handle it and provided inductions on PIN systems,” Reshma explains.

Beginning her career with PIN as a Cashier and Administrator, Reshma rapidly progressed to Finance Coordinator, then Finance Manager, and eventually Head of Systems and Operations, showcasing her commitment and expertise. In this role, she oversees logistics, finances, and security, all essential for the smooth operation of humanitarian missions.

As she reflects on nearly a decade with People in Need (PIN), Reshma recalls how far the organization has come since she joined. "When I started, we were operating from tents. Today, we have a fully functioning office with over 70 colleagues dedicated to supporting the country program. My career has grown significantly—from managing finances to overseeing compliance with donor guidelines and national policies. I'm proud to uphold our organization’s reputation and take on these responsibilities.”

Reshma's journey of professional growth runs parallel to her personal life. As a mother of two young children with a husband working abroad, she has learned to balance her career and family responsibilities. Despite the difficulties, she is grateful for the ability to manage both gracefully, which has strengthened her. Reshma reflects, “Our country director, Vera Exnerova, supported me throughout my journey, particularly after my baby was born. Her emotional support and motivation were crucial in helping me handle all my responsibilities.” She finds fulfilment in her work, and she often misses it when on a break, which is why she prefers not to take extended leave. This balance between work and family is an ongoing journey, but it’s one that she embraces with strength and gratitude.

Behind every successful aid operation, Reshma and her team are the ones who ensure that the necessary resources are in place. From managing complex financial systems that allocate funds to the right projects to coordinating logistics that bring essential supplies to remote areas, her work is vital to the success of humanitarian efforts. “Seeing families dressed warmly, with food on their tables and access to education for their children, makes all the hardships worthwhile," she explains. “The smiles on the faces of those we help are the best reward I could ask for.”

One of the biggest challenges Reshma faced in 2015 was managing an aid distribution in the field, particularly in remote areas where security concerns and logistical hurdles are common. She recalls an incident in Kerauja, Gorkha, where a large crowd eagerly awaiting assistance became difficult to control, ultimately forcing the team to halt distribution for safety reasons. “It was disheartening to leave without providing the needed support, but the safety of our team and the people we serve is always our top priority,” she says.

Juggling her intense career with her family life has been a challenge, especially in a society that follows patriarchal norms and a joint family setup, where women are typically expected to stay home and handle most domestic responsibilities. However, Reshma credits her husband, parents, and sisters for their unwavering support, which has enabled her to pursue her passion. "It was a rough and tough decision, but with my family's support, I could make my path easy and walk constantly," she reflects. "My husband and my parents have been my pillars of strength. Without their support, it would have been impossible to do this job."

Reshma’s experiences in the field have profoundly transformed her perspective on life. Growing up in a middle-class family in Kathmandu, she acknowledges the privileges she once took for granted. "After visiting different areas, I've realized how blessed I am," she says. The resilience and contentment of the people she serves, despite their hardships, have left a lasting impact on her worldview. "I’ve seen people walk miles for food, and yet they are content and grateful for what they have. It’s taught me to appreciate the little things in life."

As we celebrate World Humanitarian Day, let us acknowledge the extraordinary contributions of individuals like Reshma, who work tirelessly behind the scenes to support their colleagues on the front lines. Their unwavering commitment to serving vulnerable communities shines as a beacon of hope in a world facing unprecedented challenges.

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