ROOTS is a 14-day, fully residential leadership immersion program designed for youths in the Nepali diaspora who want to reconnect with their identity, understand contemporary Nepal, and explore how they can lead and contribute with purpose.
Applications Now Open for 2026, June 22 - July 5, 2026
Dates
June 22 - July 5, 2026
Duration
14 days (fully residential in Nepal)
Cohort Size
~12 participants (high school rising juniors, seniors and recent graduates)
Program Fee
USD 2,800 (Includes accommodation, meals, and in-country travel)
Proceeds from ROOTS support youth and women entrepreneurs through Daayitwa's Mission Aasha initiative.
Greater clarity about identity and leadership purpose
Strong global network built through friendship and community engagement
A compelling personal portfolio that weaves together lived experiences, leadership potential, and a transformative journey
Many Nepali diaspora youth grow up feeling close to Nepal through family, language, and community but rarely get a chance to experience the country in a way that is personal, real, and lasting. ROOTS creates that space: a guided journey that deepens connection through community immersion, reflective learning, and hands-on contribution. Co-created by Nepal Leadership Academy and Daayitwa, ROOTS combines research-backed leadership practice with real-world engagement so the participants return with deeper belonging, clearer purpose, and practical ways to stay connected and contribute.
ROOTS is not a summer camp, tour, or classroom program. It is an immersive leadership journey built around three core practices:
Connect
Participants engage directly with Nepali communities, landscapes, and lived realities through rural immersion and a leadership trek.
Communicate
Participants learn adaptive leadership, dialogue, and storytelling through facilitated workshops and guided reflection.
Contribute
Participants develop leadership skills, reflect on their experiences, and connect with local mentors and peers in meaningful ways.
