Blog Image 25 Sep
charity

From Nepal to Romania, carrying the Circle spirit across borders

My Ladies Circle International Conference Experience. Since the time I joined Ladies Circle Nepal (LCN), I’ve always dreamed of traveling and experiencing everything that Ladies Circle has to offer. My first taste of this came in 2021, when we hosted the MTM. I was fortunate enough to home-host two international Circlers at my place for over a week and was actively involved in the event’s planning. That experience ignited a different spirit of Circling in me. I had always admired our APAC Chair, Arti, who would share her travel stories, pictures, and the beautiful bonds she formed with sisters across the globe through LC events. I knew I wanted to have that firsthand experience too. Two years ago, I registered for the LCI Conference in Jaipur. I prepared everything, packed my most beautiful hat, and went to the airport with so much excitement. But destiny had other plans — an unfortunate situation forced me to return home. That moment, though disappointing, only deepened my desire to travel and experience an international conference. Fast forward to my presidency year, when God’s plan for me finally unfolded. Romania — a country that once felt out of reach — became my goal. I keep a vision board as my phone wallpaper, and Romania had been right at the top. My kids, my husband, everyone knew how much I wanted to go. Thanks to my husband, who not only supported me but also decided to travel with me when no one else could, my dream finally came true (and yes, it felt a bit like a second honeymoon!). Touchdown in Brașov Landing in Brașov was overwhelming. Since I had registered late, I couldn’t get a room in the main hotel where all the events were being held. On the morning of the Councillors’ Meeting, I had no idea how to get to the venue. I reached out to the convener, who told me that some Austrian sisters were staying at my hotel and suggested I connect with them. With all my heart, I sent a message to one of them. She not only replied warmly but also offered me a ride. When I thanked her, she said, “That’s what LCI sisters are for.” That was the moment I realized — for the next three days, I would never be alone. The Councillors’ Meeting and National Parade Walking into the venue for the Councillors’ Meeting was surreal. Desks filled with gifts from different countries, sisters greeting each other with hugs — it felt like I had known them forever. Yet, there was still a little void. From Nepal, I was the only councillor, while almost every other country had at least two. I wished I had someone from home to share the moments with. But soon, the excitement took over. That evening was the National Parade, and holding the Nepali flag high as I walked proudly through the streets, while people clicked our pictures, was an indescribable feeling. It’s an experience every Circler should have at least once in their lifetime. The Conference, the Hat, and the Wins The next day was the main conference, and I had butterflies in my stomach. It was also hat contest day, and I had carried a huge box all the way across the globe for it. When I wore the hat (thank you, Varsha and Jyoti!), everyone was in awe — and winning the contest felt like the cherry on top. Another proud moment came when our Charity March was nominated in the Best Association category. My heart swelled with pride. But even in that happy moment, I found myself wishing I had a sister from Nepal to hug and celebrate with. That said, my LCI sisters were there, cheering me on and lifting my spirits. A Treasured Experience Attending the LCI AGM in Romania has been one of the most memorable and treasured experiences of my life. The warmth, love, and friendships that blossomed during those few days are beyond words. My Facebook friend list grew by over 100 sisters from across the globe, and my heart grew with it. It’s true what they say — LCI AGMs are addictive. I now want to experience this every single year. To every Circler out there: if you haven’t attended an LCI Conference yet, please put it on your bucket list. It’s the experience that truly completes your Circling journey.