Our Pie Pals Seamstress: Duka’s Story
(in Duka’s own words)
I am Duka Subedi. I was born in Bhutan, the country between India and China. I was evicted from my country when I was seven years old. I lived in a Bhutanese refugee camp in eastern Nepal from 1992 to 2008 with my parents, two brothers and a sister.
Refugee life is very hard life. Many times we did not have enough food to eat, no good water to drink, not enough clothes, no proper medical care; problems in all sectors. It was scary place to live for women and young girls. I studied in the refugee camp and then went to college in Nepal.
In May, 2007 I married Hari Subedi. He is a nice person and has helped me in all of my steps of my life. I love him so much. We came to USA in August, 2008, through IOM (International Organization for Migration) and started living in Albuquerque, New Mexico. At the beginning life was very difficult and very challenging. We faced many problems but we are working hard and try to improve our life.
In May 2009, my son, Aarpan, was born. He is very nice and is the source of thinking I have to work hard for my baby and make his better life.
I have learned to make different things like aprons, cushions, tote-bags, beading, etc. I learned at the New Mexico Women's Foundation, Sew Rights and other community work places.
Now I started making some money and helping my husband to run my family. I still have lot of problems like languages. I want to go back to school and learn some things but I don't have another source of income. I am hopeful and hard working, thinking that one day I will reach my goal.
Thank you for supporting my efforts by buying an apron. I hope you enjoy it.
Duka Subedi
