Ripples of Change in Nepal | Philip Holmes | TEDxUWE

Colonel Philip Holmes' Work in Nepal

• Colonel Philip Holmes, founder of the charity Palal Train, has dedicated the past 25 years to improving the lives of children in Nepal.
• After his wife Esther's suicide in 1999, he established a children's charity in her memory, choosing Nepal as the location.
• Despite lacking prior experience, he was moved by the plight of children imprisoned with their parents in Kathmandu jail and brought the first seven children out in December 1999, establishing a children's refuge.
• Media coverage of his work led to widespread support, including an invitation to a television program where he met his future wife, Beverly Weir.
• His efforts to raise awareness about the jailing of children resulted in the Nepal government outlawing the practice in November 2001.

Addressing Child Trafficking in Circuses

• Holmes shifted his focus to addressing the issue of Nepali children being trafficked into Indian circuses, where they faced abuse and exploitation.
• He and his team conducted undercover research to expose the conditions in these circuses and launched rescue operations to free the children, many of whom were victims of trafficking.
• After rescuing the children, they provided rehabilitation and education, helping them reintegrate into society.
• One successful initiative was the creation of a circus troupe, allowing the children to travel the world and perform, fulfilling their dreams sold to them by the traffickers.
• Holmes' work led to significant outcomes, including the closure of a child trafficking route and a ruling by the Indian Supreme Court to outlaw the use of child performers.

Overcoming Challenges and Making a Difference

• Holmes emphasizes the importance of not being overwhelmed by challenges, not thinking one lacks the resources to make a difference, and not believing one lacks the skills.
• He highlights the transformative power of small acts of kindness and the importance of making a start when faced with a big challenge.
• He believes in the concept of "serendipity miracles" and the ripple effect of change that can occur when even one person takes up a challenge.