“For the past few years, I’ve had the privilege of sponsoring two girls, Rita and Karishma, at the World Youth International School in Nepal. I’ve loved hearing about their time at the school and learning about their lives. Now, I want to do more to help their classmates, too.” – Aleksandra Giro
At just 14 years old, Aleksandra is already making waves, both in the pool and in the world. A straight-A student and nationally ranked swimmer from Australia, Ale competes in gruelling long-distance events, 800m and 1500m freestyle, and 5km open water, and was recently accepted into the elite Flipper’s Development Program for rising swimming talent.
But what makes her story remarkable isn’t just her athletic achievements. It’s her heart.
A few years ago, Aleksandra began sponsoring two students at the World Youth International School in Nepal; Rita and Karishma.
Through the sponsorship program, she received letters, photos, and stories about their daily lives and progress in school. She learned about their love of learning, their friendships, and their dreams for the future; dreams that, without sponsorship, might never have been possible.
That desire to do more became the spark for something much bigger.
As Aleksandra trained for national swim meets, she realised that the discipline and determination she built through sport could also fuel her mission to help others. She wanted to take her commitment beyond two students and support even more students at the School.
Through World Youth International’s Education Pathways Program, Ale launched her own fundraising campaign, aiming to raise $2,000 per year for the next three years. Her goal: to help female students access not only quality education, but also soccer training and tournaments, empowering them with teamwork, leadership, and confidence - the same qualities that drive her in swimming.
“I know how much sport has shaped me,” Ale says. “It teaches you resilience, goal-setting, and believing in yourself. I want girls in Nepal to experience that same feeling; that they can achieve anything.”
A School Built on Hope
The World Youth International School opened its doors in 1999 with just 24 children. Today, it’s home to more than 700 students, achieving a 97% pass rate, one of the highest in its region.
Behind these numbers are hundreds of stories like Rita’s and Karishma’s; stories of children who now have access to safe classrooms, regular meals, healthcare, and the resources they need to thrive.
But for every child in school, there’s another still waiting. Many families in Nepal live on less than $3 a day. Without financial support, education can feel like an impossible dream. That’s where the Education Pathways Program steps in, connecting donors with students to provide full scholarships that cover school fees, uniforms, meals, and essential materials.
The Ripple Effect of Giving
Aleksandra’s story is a reminder that impact doesn’t have to start big. It can begin with one decision - one student - one small act of compassion.
What began as two sponsorships has grown into a movement of generosity. Her determination to balance study, swimming, and social impact shows what’s possible when young people lead with purpose.
And just like her swimming career, Ale knows this is a long-distance journey, one that takes persistence, community, and heart.
Join Aleksandra — and Help Change a Life
Aleksandra has proven that age is no barrier to creating change. Whether you’re an individual, a family, or a business, you too can make a difference by joining the Education Pathways Program.
Your support provides more than just schooling, it gives Nepali children the opportunity to dream, to grow, and to build a future full of possibility. Learn more about Ale’s fundraising initiative: Aleksandra, Diving In for a Brighter Future | World Youth International
Learn more the Education Pathway’s program: worldyouth.org.au/sponsor/giveeducation
Together, we can create pathways to brighter futures!
