Punya Foundation successfully hosted a fundraising dinner on 6 December 2025 in Adelaide to support the education of vulnerable and Dalit students in Nepal. The event brought together a diverse group of community members, donors, and leaders who share a commitment to creating better educational opportunities for disadvantaged children. The program was hosted by Mr Puskar Poudyal and attended by special guests including Senator Alex Antic, Senator Leah Blyth, Senator candidate Mr KD Singh, the Lions Club team led by Mr O’Reilly, as well as several business representatives. Community volunteers, well-wishers and philanthropists attended the program strengthening the spirit of collaboration and community support that defined the evening.
In his welcome address, Mr Kashi Adhikari, CEO, expressed heartfelt appreciation for everyone’s participation. He highlighted that the gathering was more than just a celebration— it was a chance to share the Foundation’s journey, build stronger connections, and work together to make a meaningful impact. He thanked Director of Programs Mr Hari Adhikari and MC Mr Puskar Poudyal for playing pivotal roles in making the event a success, and extended gratitude to all volunteers and supporters for their generosity. He also informed attendees about the upcoming Annual General Meeting scheduled for 20 December 2025.
Senator Alex Antic acknowledged the Foundation’s ongoing charity work and pledged his continued support for its initiatives, including the community-led project to build a place of worship and a multicultural community hub in Munno Para Downs. Providing a progress update on this project, Mr Hari Sharma, Mandir Construction Committee Coordinator, encouraged everyone to stay engaged. He emphasised that investing in education transforms not just a single student, but entire families and future generations. He also shared, “the proposed spiritual and community centre, a project valued at over two million dollars, represents a future of unity, peace, learning, and service, and the application has been lodged with the council approval”.
A key highlight of the night was a charity auction coordinated by Mr Puskar Poudyal, which added excitement while supporting the fundraising efforts. Generous contributors included Mr Ashish Baral from Chandrakot Jewellery, who donated a silver-sheathed Khukuri; Mr Dinesh Kalikote, who offered a beautifully decorated Tungba pot; and a local artist who donated an inspiring piece of artwork. The auction was lively and exceeded expectations, helping raise funds than originally anticipated.
Punya Foundation expresses deep gratitude to all guests, sponsors, volunteers, and supporters who contributed to the success of this event. Together, the community demonstrated the incredible power of collective goodwill – building hope, education, and opportunity for children in Nepal while strengthening unity and purpose here in South Australia.
| Income and Expenditure | |
| Income | |
| Bank deposit | $ 1,950.0 |
| Cash collected | $ 1,530.0 |
| Amount due (Auction + Dinner): $1,300 (Auction: $1,150 + Dinner: $150) | $ 2,600.0 |
| Expenditure | $ 2,000.0 |
| Potential Net Support Raised | $ 2,780.0 |
