Content created by Virtual Intern Christopher Belden

Pawan Ghimire is a pioneer in Nepal for people with disabilities. Blinded by Maoist insurgents during a military operation in 2003, Ghimire discovered cricket as a rehabilitation therapy. He now serves as the chair of the Cricket Association of the Blind - Nepal, helping blind men and women in Nepal find strength through the game of cricket.

In 2016, he participated in the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) titled "Access for All: Enhancing the Lives of People with Disabilities." While in the United States, Ghimire had several valuable experiences he took back to Nepal. He was inspired by the opportunities for people with disabilities to support themselves in the United States and shared the message with several organizations in Nepal.

Shortly after returning to Nepal, he assisted in establishing an all-female sporting event for athletes with disabilities, promoting the idea that disabilities are not barriers, but opportunities.

Ghimire helps children with disabilities view themselves as more than their disabilities and to strive for success. Through the association, Ghimire has made blind cricket players more visible in Nepali society. The men’s blind cricket team participated in a World Cup, and the women’s team defeated Pakistan in a tournament.

Through his work with the Cricket Association of the Blind-Nepal, Pawan Ghimire has improved the perception of people with disabilities in Nepal and works to ensure that people with disabilities can enjoy fundamental rights.

Content edited by Sallie Bestul, Regina Navarro-Gomez, and Jenna Williams

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