In 2008, Shiva arrived in Cincinnati, Ohio from a refugee camp in Nepal to start a new life under the refugee resettlement program. He graduated with a Master of Science degree in Quality System Management from The National Graduate School in 2016. He now works in the quality department of a manufacturing industry that produces cosmetics, medical devices and pharmaceuticals. Shiva joined the board because he believes, “Everyone likes to live a better life. A refugee right is a human right.”

Amsu Rajbhandari left Nepal in 1998 to start a new life in the US. After graduating from the University of Cincinnati, he joined Procter & Gamble, where he currently works as a senior scientist. When Bhutanese refugees started to arrive in Cincinnati in 2008, he knew he had to pass knowledge and experience to these newest Americans so they would not have to struggle more than necessary. He believes in teaching people how to get things done in the US, rather than doing it for them. Today he helps out with Heartfelt Tidbits, as needed.

In 2008, Giri’s family was one of the first aided by Heartfelt Tidbits. Following his own ‘long welcome’ to Cincinnati, Giri was inspired to help other refugees and soon began volunteering for Heartfelt Tidbits. Giri helps with English and citizenship classes, conducts a senior citizen class each week, and interprets for clients. Giri is now a US citizen, a homeowner, and a father of sons who attend college. “I encourage other people – if they work hard they can do the same. That gives meaning to my being here beyond simply looking after myself.”