We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Sunanda Dangol. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Sunanda below.
Sunanda , thank you so much for joining us. You are such a positive person and it’s something we really admire and so we wanted to start by asking you where you think your optimism comes from?
Growing up in Kathmandu, Nepal, a developing country, exposed me to the daily struggles people face – from securing basic necessities like food, clothing, and shelter to more significant challenges.
As I started exploring remote areas, I realized their hardships were even more profound. This shift in perspective made me understand that everyone confronts difficulties; it’s just a matter of whose problems seem more significant.
Recognizing the struggles others endure, my own issues began to feel smaller. What used to make me sad now seems trivial. I’ve adopted a perspective where I rarely get sad because I’m aware that someone, somewhere, has it worse. This realization, gained through life experiences and maturity, has been instrumental in cultivating optimism.
Life experiences, maturity, and global travel have bestowed upon me numerous life lessons and a general sense of positivity. One particularly eye-opening revelation occurred when I observed similar struggles worldwide, not confined to Nepal alone.
This journey has instilled in me a deep sense of gratitude. I’ve learned to count my blessings instead of dwelling on what I lack. By acknowledging that there’s always someone facing more significant challenges, I’ve acquired an optimistic mindset.
Shifting my focus from what’s missing to what I have has been transformative. In that moment, a lightness filled my heart, and my mind felt enlightened. It’s a constant reminder to appreciate life and maintain an optimistic outlook despite its inevitable challenges.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
As an event planner, my work isn’t just a job; it’s a passion, a joyful pursuit where I curate diverse events, transforming each occasion into a unique and unforgettable experience.
At the heart of my endeavors is the signature event, Nepali Jatra. It goes beyond being a mere celebration; it’s a bridge inviting the community into the rich tapestry of Nepali art, culture, and music. Last year’s event was well attended and exceeded our capacity limit. This year, we’re excited to announce that Nepali Jatra will take place at Longmont Downtown on Saturday, July 20, from 3:30 pm to 7:00 pm.
The choice of venue at Longmont Downtown is cozy and welcoming. It’s a deliberate decision to embrace inclusivity, openness, and extend a warm welcome to a broader audience. Our aim is to share not only our culture and music but also the flavors of our Nepali cuisine, creating an immersive experience for all.
We also wanted to provide you with an update on the event. This year, we are enhancing Nepali Jatra by screening a series of documentaries called “Festivals,” in collaboration with Habitat for Humanity of the St. Vrain Valley. The team is preparing to build houses in Nepal in Spring 2025. The screening, which serves as a prelude to Nepali Jatra, will take place from 3:30 to 5:00 PM at Central Longmont Church. Movie admission is free, but registration is required. Donations are welcome, and the proceeds will support scholarships for the Global Village trip to Nepal.
Following the screening at 5:00 PM, there will be live cultural performances and a live music band right outside the church in downtown Longmont.
With the goal of bringing more people together through new events, partnerships, and endeavors, your ongoing enthusiasm and collaboration with many local organizations are pivotal. Together, we make Nepali Jatra not just an event but a heartfelt celebration woven into the fabric of our community. Stay tuned for heartwarming celebrations that resonate with the essence of togetherness and cultural richness.
With the goal of bringing more people together through new events, partnerships, and endeavors, our ongoing enthusiasm and collaboration with many local organizations are pivotal. Together, we make Nepali Jatra not just an event but a heartfelt celebration woven into the fabric of our community. Stay tuned for heartwarming celebrations that resonate with the essence of togetherness and cultural richness.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Looking back on my journey as an event planner, I’ve found three key things that really shaped how I approach things:
**Creativity:** When it comes to event planning, creativity is like the secret sauce that makes each event special. Whether it’s coming up with fun themes, setting up exciting decorations, or curating captivating entertainment, being creative is what makes each event unique and memorable.
**Organization Skills:** The success of any event depends on how well things are organized. From working with different vendors to keeping a tight schedule, having strong organizational skills is the backbone that ensures everything runs smoothly and adds to the overall success of events.
**Adaptability:** In the world of events, things can change in the blink of an eye. Being adaptable and handling unexpected challenges has been key in making sure every event turns out to be a success.
For those just starting out in event planning:
**Learn by Doing:** Get hands-on experience by actively participating in workshops and events. Learning on the job is one of the best ways to understand the ropes.
**Build a Diverse Skill Set:** Besides just event planning, try to pick up skills in related areas like marketing and communication. A broader skill set always comes in handy.
**Forge Connections:** Make meaningful connections with vendors, venues, and others in the industry. Networking is not just about who you know but also about learning from others.
**Hands-On Experience:** Look for internships or opportunities to assist experienced event planners. Practical experience complements what you learn in theory.
**Stay Inspired:** Keep your passion alive by finding inspiration from influencers, attending events, and engaging with creative content. Staying inspired is what keeps the job exciting.
Remember, this journey is more than just a job; it’s a continuous adventure filled with creativity, organizational finesse, and the readiness to tackle anything that comes your way.
Before we go, maybe you can tell us a bit about your parents and what you feel was the most impactful thing they did for you?
The most impactful thing my parents ever did was believing in me wholeheartedly. It wasn’t just encouragement; it was a steadfast faith in my abilities. They created an environment where I felt free to explore and follow my passions. This trust and freedom were more than just support; they became the foundation of my confidence and the compass guiding me through life.
The journey wasn’t a smooth ride. Challenges were abundant, but the enduring support and trust from my parents became my anchor. Their belief in me allowed me to weather storms, learn from experiences, and ultimately carve out a successful career.
Their approach was never about shielding me from difficulties; instead, they empowered me to face challenges head-on. This resilience, nurtured through their steadfast trust and the freedom to explore, has played a vital role in shaping not just my career but also my personal growth.
Looking back, the enduring lesson from my parents is the profound impact that belief, trust, and freedom can have in fostering not just success, but more importantly, self-confidence and resilience.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.nepalijatra.org
- Instagram: nepali_jatra_colrado
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NepaliJatraColorado
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0jJWqCYBvEk&t=208s
Image Credits
Kelvin Melgar Lisa Siciliano Cree Sharma