From brick factory to London Marathon: Asma's inspirational journey

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, Apr. 26: This Sunday, a 22-year-old Nepali girl is set to compete in the London Marathon, proudly representing Nepal.

Asma BK, a resident of Sunchhahari Rural Municipality, Rolpa, and a child labor survivor, was rescued by Child Rescue Nepal in 2019.  This was a turning point in her life. On April 27, she will run alongside world-class athletes in the first wave of the London Marathon.

Asma’s journey began in hardship. After losing her mother at the age of 10 and facing difficult conditions at home, she ended up working in a brick factory in Rolpa. Later, she took a job at a guesthouse in Gongabu, Kathmandu, where she worked long hours for minimal pay. Determined to learn, she taught herself to read using discarded schoolbooks.

In January 2019, at the age of 16, Child Rescue Nepal intervened, giving Asma the chance to pursue an education and explore her remarkable talent for long-distance running. Since then, she has become an accomplished trail runner in Nepal, completing races as long as 180 kilometers and earning numerous medals along the way.

“BK’s transformation exemplifies the incredible potential within every child we rescue,” said Bhaskar Karki, Country Director of Child Rescue Nepal. “From working in a brick kiln to competing in an international marathon, her journey fills our entire team with immense pride. Her determination to give back to the organisation that supported her shows her exceptional character. BK is not just running for herself, but for all children in Nepal who still need our help.”

Soon to join the Armed Police Force in Nepal, BK will be making her first trip abroad to compete in London.

“I’m excited to experience things I have never seen before and to meet the Child Rescue Nepal supporters whose generous donations changed my life,” said BK. “Running the marathon is an opportunity to raise awareness for children who still need to be rescued.”

Her inspiring journey represents a powerful full-circle moment—a once-rescued girl now giving back to the very charity that changed her life.

BK’s participation in the London Marathon symbolises hope and possibility for vulnerable children across Nepal. Child Rescue Nepal is dedicated to rescuing vulnerable children in Nepal and providing them with education, care and opportunities for a brighter future.