Zrinka & Caitlin’s Journey to Girls INpowerment Center in Nepal

A mother and daughter’s firsthand look at the life-changing power of education and support

Two women sitting outside with snow-capped mountains in the background, wearing jackets, one with a beanie and one with sunglasses.

This past November, my daughter and I had the extraordinary opportunity to travel to Nepal to visit the Girl’s Empowerment Centre established by Compass Rose International. Even now, it’s difficult to fully capture what that experience meant to us.

Nepal immerses you completely. The culture, the people, the colors, the rhythm of daily life — nothing compares. Everywhere we turned, we were surrounded by breathtaking mountains and raw, untouched beauty. Our group even chose to take a helicopter flight around Mount Everest — a moment that still feels surreal. Seeing the highest peak in the world up close is something words simply cannot do justice.

Two women seated at a table outdoors during evening, with one woman holding a bouquet of colorful flowers, smiling at the other woman, who is also smiling and wearing a yellow scarf. Lantern-style lights and building rooftops are visible in the background.

Five women sitting on the ground inside a rustic, partially open structure, smiling and relaxing. Some are holding water bottles and one has a smartphone. The background has metal and wood paneling with various supplies and bags around.

Two women smiling and posing for a photo in front of historic brick buildings, with other tourists in the background.

But as awe-inspiring as the landscape was, the true heart of this trip was found within the walls of the Empowerment Centre.

You can hear that 40+ girls live there. You can read about the mission. But nothing prepares you for sitting beside them, listening to their stories, sharing meals, laughter, culture, and connection. It is in those quiet conversations and joyful moments that the purpose of Compass Rose International truly comes alive.

Group of people, including children and adults, gathered in front of a brick building with blue roofs, outdoor decorations, and mountainous scenery. They appear to be celebrating or participating in a community event.

The Nepal journey through Compass Rose International is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It changed how I see the world, and because of that, I wholeheartedly encourage anyone considering it to take the leap. Being there — fully present — is something you will carry with you forever.

Four women standing in front of a helicopter with snowy mountains in the background, under a clear blue sky.

Group of nine women sitting at a long wooden table in a restaurant or café at night. They are smiling and appear to be enjoying a meal together. The table is set with glasses, bottles of water, tea cups, and some leftover food or dessert. The background features warm lighting, trees, and outdoor décor.

Six women standing together on a mountain overlook with a scenic view of mountains and valleys in the background.

Outdoor cultural event with dancers in traditional clothing, seated and standing audience, colorful flags and mountainous scenery.

This trip shifts something in you. It expands your perspective, deepens your gratitude, and reminds you how connected we all are despite living worlds apart. It is not just travel — it is transformation.