It all began in December 2022 with Gambu Rai and Jiten Kulung, who took the first step by working in an Austrian ski hut. There, they had the opportunity to gain new skills and secure their financial future.

To put things in perspective: the average annual income in Nepal is roughly equivalent to one to one-and-a-half monthly salaries in Austria.

Their first season went extremely well – Gambu and Jiten quickly became valued and popular team members, known for their commitment and positive attitude.

Inspired by this success, more young people followed in the summer of 2023. By winter 2023/24, we welcomed ten young men and women from the Chachalung region to our team. As of 2025, the number has grown to fifteen – each one a multiplier, not only for their own development but for entire families and villages back home.

Multipliers for Change

Our focus is on so-called family providers – individuals who use their income to support not just themselves, but entire families. Instead of offering jobs to spouses or siblings, we aim to give as many families as possible the opportunity to benefit from a stable income.

This enables them to invest in education, health care, and a better future for their loved ones in Nepal.

The “Boys and Girls Fund” – Empowerment through Solidarity

In 2023, Gambu, Jiten, Petra, and Dr. Sigrid launched the “Boys and Girls Fund” – a shared initiative built on trust and the idea of helping others help themselves.

Everyone working in Austria contributes €300 per season to the fund – on a voluntary basis and with full transparency. The unique aspect: each contributor can suggest where, when, and how support should be given. All decisions are made collectively.

And here's the impact multiplier: every project supported by the fund is matched by the Dr. Sigrid Schwarzenbacher Foundation.

We handle the fund’s administration, but our Nepali partners take full responsibility for deciding how the money is used. What began as external aid has turned into an empowering model of shared responsibility and sustainable development.

At present, for example, the fund supports the education of two girls in Nepal – a small action with a big impact.

A Model for the Future

The “Boys and Girls Fund” is more than just a support project. It’s a living example of how empowerment, trust, and responsibility can create lasting change – both for those working in Austria and for their communities in Nepal.

What began with two young men has grown into a movement – one that gives back and looks forward.