1588 पटक हेरिएको
Pennsylvania — In the heart of every immigrant family lies a story of courage, sacrifice, and determination. For the Dhimal family of Jhapa, Nepal, that story shines through their daughter, Bijeta “Biju” Dhimal, whose journey from a small town in Nepal to becoming a proud U.S. Army soldier is nothing short of inspiring.
Born in 2005, Biju was just four years old when her parents, Loki and Ryan Dhimal, brought her and her younger sister Chandra to the United States in January 2010. Like many immigrant children, she carried with her the traditions of her homeland while adjusting to the challenges of a new life.
As she grew, Biju learned to balance two worlds—respecting her Nepali roots while embracing the opportunities America offered. Academically gifted, she dreamed of becoming a doctor. Yet in high school, her journey took a surprising turn: she began to consider military service.
In 2020, during her ninth-grade year, the idea of joining the Army first entered her mind. At first, she doubted herself—could she really balance higher education with service? With encouragement from her supportive parents, Biju found her answer. By her junior year, she made the brave decision to enlist.
In June 2023, Biju traveled from Pennsylvania to Missouri to begin basic combat training. What followed were ten weeks that tested every part of her spirit. From blistered feet and heavy rucksacks to sleepless nights filled with homesickness, she faced challenges that would break many. Yet through each obstacle course, gas chamber drill, and long march under the burning sun, Biju discovered her strength.
When she graduated as a U.S. Army soldier, it was not just a badge she carried home, but a life lesson she will never forget:
“The right place, the right time, the right uniform is the cue to achievement.”
Today, Biju is more than a soldier—she is a role model for Nepali youth, proof that dreams are never too far if pursued with discipline, faith, and hard work. As she prepares to begin undergraduate studies at the University of Delaware in August 2025 with the goal of attending medical school, her inspiring journey continues.
Alongside her military service and academic pursuits, Biju has also earned remarkable success in martial arts and refereeing. In June 2025, she attended the Steel City Referee Seminar, where she achieved her National C referee certification. Just weeks later, in early August, she attended the TASK Black Belt Seminar and was awarded her black belt by USA NKF National Coach Shihan Luis Sanchez, with the examination overseen by 9th Dan WSKF Vice President and PKF Director Hanshi Shoko Sato. Adding to her list of accomplishments, Biju also competed in the FIKA USA International Tournament held in New York, where she secured first place gold in kata (forms) and second place silver in kumite (fighting).
From Jhapa to Harrisburg, from soldier to martial artist, Biju Dhimal’s achievements are a proud example of resilience and determination. Her story is not only a testament to her own strength but also a source of inspiration for the entire Nepali-American community.
