Mates From Himalayas | Sydney, Australia | 29 June 2025
On 29 June 2025, the Nepalese Blood Donors Association(NBDA), Australia proudly organised a community blood and plasma donation drive in Sydney, with valued support from Mates From Himalayas (MFH). Around 20 community members rolled up their sleeves, gave generously, and reminded us all what it means to look after one another.
Mates From Himalayas (MFH) and the Nepalese Blood Donors Association(NBDA), Australia came together in Sydney on 29 June 2025.
A Partnership Built on Shared Purpose
NBDA, Australia organised the blood donation event, and when they reached out to MFH for support, there was no hesitation. The answer was an immediate yes. That is what happens when two organisations are truly built on the same values.
MFH is a registered not for profit organisation supporting culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities, with a primary focus on Nepali speaking communities by raising awareness, reducing stigma, and providing cultural consultations in Mental Health, Gambling Harm Prevention, and Water Safety. At every event, the goal of MFH remains the same: to show up for the community the way you would show up for your family.
MFH Secretary standing alongside NBDA’s representative, united by a shared commitment towards community wellbeing.
The Program and Its Purpose
The event was organised by NBDA and supported by MFH with one clear goal: to increase voluntary blood and plasma donation within the CALD communities, especially the Nepali speaking community in Australia.
Australia’s blood supply depends entirely on voluntary donors, and communities like ours have a powerful role to play in keeping that supply strong. On that day, that meant not just encouraging others to donate, but stepping forward yourself and going first. MFH Board members donated blood alongside the community they serve. No speeches were required. The action said everything.
MFH President donating blood, inspiring the community to step forward and go first.
Beyond the donation itself, MFH used the gathering as an opportunity to have open and warm conversations about Mental Health and the importance of looking after our overall wellbeing. These conversations were woven naturally into the day, reflecting MFH’s belief that community health is not just physical. It is both emotional, and social.
MFH Secretary donating blood, showing his full commitment towards the cause.
Connection we share
A notable connection between the two organisations was that: MFH’s Secretary was also the then Secretary of NBDA Australia at the time of the event, reflecting the close and trusted relationship between both MFH and NBDA.
People who made this possible
- Anil Pokhrel: Past President, NRNA Australia, 2025 (at the time of event)
- Surya Gautam: Community Leader
- Ranjita Bhandari Adhikari: Past President, NBDA Australia, 2025 (at the time of event)
- MFH Board of Directors who also donated blood during the event
- Additional community leaders, supporters, and mates
Events like this do not happen by accident. They happen because certain people care enough to make them real, and on that day, the room was full of exactly those peoples.
Looking Ahead
This blood donation drive is one of many ways MFH continues to show up for the CALD and Nepali speaking community in Australia. Whether it is through mental health awareness, gambling harm prevention, or community health initiatives like this one. MFH remains committed to building a healthier, and connected community across New South Wales and beyond.
If you would like to get involved with MFH or learn more about us, please do visit mfh.org.au or reach out to us at info@mfh.org.au.