We are proud and excited to share a milestone in our journey: Christel House is expanding its holistic education model to Colombia and Nepal.
This means thousands more children and youth will gain access to an education that not only teaches, but also nourishes, supports, and opens doors to a future full of possibilities.
In Colombia, Christel House will join forces with Fundación Santo Domingo, a foundation with more than 65 years of experience advancing social mobility and strengthening communities across the country.
For decades, the Foundation has worked with international organizations, governments, and leaders from both the social and private sectors to build sustainable solutions in areas such as education, environment, urban development, and economic inclusion. Its vision has positioned Colombia as a hub where local strengths meet global collaboration—creating impact that extends far beyond its borders.
“Christel House provides an international network with proven results: over 90% of alumni continue their studies or secure employment. More importantly, it is rare to find a long-term committed organization that not only operates a school but helps build a new one. That’s why we are so happy Christel House is coming to Colombia and that we can become part of this global network for education results,” said Daniel Gonzales, Director of Social Investment at Fundación Santo Domingo.
In Nepal, Christel House will be led by Surya Bahadur Karki, selected as Christel House’s first Global Pathbuilders Fellow. Chosen from more than 2,300 candidates worldwide, Surya is a bold, mission-driven education entrepreneur whose journey is as inspiring as it is personal.
Born in a remote village where reaching school meant walking for hours, he knows firsthand the barriers children face when education is out of reach. Thanks to scholarships, Surya was able to change his life, and for the past 18 years he has dedicated himself to ensuring that other children have the same opportunities.
He founded his own school, co-managed more than 80 public schools as Country Director of United World Schools Nepal, and advised the Government of Nepal on education policy. Globally recognized for his leadership, Surya has been honored with distinctions such as Forbes Asia 30 Under 30 in Social Entrepreneurship, WISE Young Leader, and the Prince of Wales & Unilever Sustainable Living Young Entrepreneurs Award.
“I was born in a place where a good education was just a distant dream. Today, this fellowship is a dream come true: my chance to ensure that other children live a life full of possibilities,” said Surya.
With his leadership, Christel House Nepal will soon become a reality. His personal story of resilience and hope will now serve as a path for thousands of children to realize their potential and build brighter futures.
Each new country is a door opening. An opportunity to transform realities and prove that when the cycle of poverty is broken, it changes not only one life, but generations to come.
Today, we celebrate together because we are one heart beating around the world.
From Classrooms to Life.
