Banking News – The famous quote by Rudyard Kipling, “God could not be everywhere, and therefore he made mothers,” resonates worldwide. Most often, the responsibility of raising a child falls on the mother, and leaving a child behind is something few mothers can bring themselves to do. However, one of the biggest sacrifices women make while building a career is the courage to stay away from their child.

Many mothers have to choose between leaving their job or dedicating time to raise their child, and there are numerous examples of women who leave their jobs for the sake of their children. A notable example of such sacrifice is Indra Thapa, the Head of Risk Management Department at Machhapuchchhre Bank. She left her two-month-old baby and returned to work, which eventually helped her establish a prominent career in the banking industry.

Her mother played a significant role in this journey, offering to take care of the baby and providing moral support. Thapa fondly remembers how her mother’s support allowed her to reach where she is today. “It was because of my mother’s support that I am where I am today,” she says in an interview with Banking News. Thapa grew up with three sisters and two brothers, and despite being the only girl among many children, she never faced any discrimination at home.

“I never faced any discrimination at home for being a girl. This is why I consider myself fortunate,” Thapa reflects on her childhood, recalling how she was raised with her mother’s friendship-like relationship. Thapa’s father was in the British Army, and due to his transfers, her family had to move frequently, which meant that her education took place in various places. However, Thapa completed her studies for grades 9 and 10 in Kathmandu.

From a young age, Thapa believed in the importance of hard work, and she initially aspired to become a doctor or engineer. Despite her interests in medicine, engineering, and research, Thapa had never imagined herself becoming a banker.

Starting Her Banking Career at Nabil Bank

Thapa’s journey into banking began at Nabil Bank, where she spent 17 years in various roles. When she first entered the banking sector, it was an entirely new field for her. The early stages were challenging, as manual work like counting money and the lack of advanced tools like mobile phones and computers made learning and reading new materials more difficult. “Back then, we had to rely on textbooks for promotions, which posed its own challenges,” Thapa recalls.

After 17 years at Nabil Bank, Thapa moved to Machhapuchchhre Bank, where she continued to rise through the ranks. “Banking is not an easy profession. There are many challenges, and promotion comes with intense competition. It’s a challenge to excel at work while competing for promotions,” she reflects. No one specifically inspired her to enter banking, but Thapa found it to be a profession where women are more respected compared to other sectors.

“Women in banking receive more respect than in other fields,” she shares with Banking News. She emphasizes the importance of completing work responsibly and staying vigilant. The participation of women in the banking sector has increased over time, and she believes that women need to build their confidence to continue progressing in their careers.

The Importance of Family Support in Career Growth

Thapa has two children, a son who lives in the UK and a daughter in Nepal. Her husband is a hydropower consultant. She mentions that there was never any lack of support from her family, both before and after marriage. Her husband has always supported her in her career, and Thapa strongly believes that a woman can only advance in her career if she has the support of her family, both from her parents before marriage and her in-laws afterward.

According to her, a supportive family environment, where everyone takes responsibility for their share, allows women to manage their careers without the burden of household work affecting their professional lives. Thapa believes that with the right support, women can manage their time effectively and advance in their careers. She points out that many women have to give up their dreams due to the lack of supportive families, which makes it challenging to pursue a career.

Thapa finds great satisfaction in her work and believes that achieving career success doesn’t always come easy. “If you can accept things as they come, you can progress and find happiness,” she states. She also emphasizes that a career is not just about earning money; it is also about enhancing one’s identity and improving the career prospects of future generations.

This article is part of a special weekly series prepared by Banking News, in celebration of International Women’s Day (March 8), featuring interviews with women in leadership roles within the banking and insurance sectors.