After 37 days of traversing mountains, rivers, and monsoon-soaked trails, Ani Pema Deki — known to many as Emma Slade — completed her extraordinary 400-kilometre journey across Bhutan’s historic Trans-Bhutan Trail. Her mission, titled “A Woman with Altitude,” was not a quest for adventure or recognition, but one of compassion: to raise funds for children with disabilities across the country.
A Trail of Purpose
Beginning in the western valley of Haa, Ani Pema Deki’s steps carried her eastward through 18 districts, culminating in Trashigang. The journey tested her endurance with rain, mud, and treacherous climbs, but her purpose never wavered.
“When the cyclone hit, we were walking through slippery conditions for about four days. My robe got drenched, my legs were covered in rashes, and it was very hard,” she recalled. “If I hadn’t been doing it to help others, I think I would have given up.”
That determination paid off. By the time she reached her destination, she had raised over Nu 9 million (approximately USD 100,000) through contributions from both Bhutanese and international supporters.
A Nation Walks Beside Her
Though she walked thousands of steps each day, Ani Pema Deki was never truly alone. Along the trail, Desuups (national service volunteers), students, teachers, locals, and even foreign visitors joined her for stretches of the journey. Villagers greeted her with tea, songs, and encouragement.
“In some places, the Desuups even had to use their knives to clear the overgrown trail,” she said. “The warmth and kindness of the Bhutanese people kept me going.”
A Warm Welcome in Trashigang
As she arrived in Trashigang, Ani and her team were received with deep gratitude and celebration. The Trashigang District Administration honoured her efforts with a medal and certificate, recognizing both her physical endurance and her devotion to service.
At 59, the Buddhist nun and founder of the UK-based charity Opening Your Heart to Bhutan has dedicated over a decade to supporting disability-inclusive education. Her latest effort will channel the raised funds toward improving facilities and opportunities for children with special needs — particularly those at the Draktso Centre for Vocational Training in Kanglung.
Beyond the Trail
“The money will go mainly to help children with special needs,” she said. “Even small contributions from Bhutanese people were incredibly touching.”
Ani Pema Deki’s journey may have ended where the mountains meet the east, but her message of compassion continues to travel — echoing across valleys, through schools, and in the hearts of those inspired by her.
Her footsteps have stopped, but the hope she carries marches on.
