Sharmila Sharma, a prominent name in Nepal’s adventure sports landscape, has made significant strides in the paragliding industry over the past 12 years. For the last seven years, she has excelled as a paragliding pilot, working alongside her husband, who is also a skilled pilot. Together, they founded a paragliding company in Pokhara, where Sharmila has discovered that many customers prefer flying with a female pilot, often expressing that the presence of a woman at the helm makes the experience more comfortable. Driven by her passion for flying and the support of her family, Sharmila made the bold decision to pursue a career as a female paragliding pilot.
Hailing from Pokhara, she has not only distinguished herself as a pilot but has also broken gender barriers in an industry traditionally dominated by men. As paragliding continues to flourish in Nepal—particularly in the picturesque region of Sarangkot—Sharmila embodies the skill, courage, and passion necessary for this exhilarating sport. Her remarkable journey serves as an inspiration to countless women, encouraging them to explore paragliding, a profession still deemed unconventional for women in many parts of the globe.
Beyond her flying career, Sharmila is actively involved with the Karma Flight Foundation, which supports communities in need. Recently, she and her team visited remote villages in Baglung, distributing educational materials, conducting eye screenings, and supporting essential projects such as libraries and clean water systems. Their motto, “Human service is living God,” reflects their commitment to giving back. As they celebrate their 10th anniversary, Sharmila emphasizes the importance of community service and encourages everyone to contribute to making a positive difference in society. In this exclusive interview, Sharmila shares her inspirations, the challenges she has encountered along the way, and her vision for the future of women in paragliding.
What inspired you to become a paragliding pilot?
Her journey into paragliding was ignited by a lifelong passion for adventure sports. “I’ve always had a passion for adventure sports,” she shared, reflecting on how she was naturally drawn to activities that provided an adrenaline rush and a profound sense of freedom. When she discovered paragliding, it felt serendipitous—an exhilarating way to engage with nature from a unique vantage point. “The thought of soaring through the skies and experiencing nature from above was exhilarating. It felt like the perfect blend of my passions and ambitions,” she explained, highlighting how paragliding encapsulated her love for adventure and the great outdoors.
Can you share what motivates you to pursue this career?
Her passion for paragliding is driven by her love of flying and her desire to inspire others, particularly women. “My motivation comes from the thrill of flying and the opportunity to inspire others, especially women,” she shared. She is determined to challenge societal norms and demonstrate that women can excel in fields like paragliding. “I want to show that we can break through societal stereotypes and achieve success,” she emphasized. The joy she feels when her students take off successfully reaffirms her commitment to this path. Each flight not only strengthens her passion but also fuels her mission to empower other women to pursue their dreams in male-dominated industries.
As a female paragliding pilot, have you ever faced any challenges or difficulties?
Despite her passion, she acknowledges the challenges she has encountered as a female paragliding pilot. When asked about these difficulties, she responded, “Absolutely. In a patriarchal society like Nepal, I’ve faced societal expectations and doubts about my ability to balance family life with a demanding career. People often questioned whether it was appropriate for a woman to pursue such an adventurous profession.” However, she remained undeterred, focusing on honing her skills and demonstrating her determination. “My husband, who is also a paragliding pilot, has been incredibly supportive, helping me overcome these obstacles. Both sides of my family stood by me, encouraging me to chase my dreams despite the societal gossip,” she shared, emphasizing the importance of her family’s unwavering support in helping her navigate these challenges.
Have you ever felt guilty about being a paragliding pilot, especially regarding societal expectations?
While guilt is not a primary emotion for her, she admits to moments of reflection regarding societal expectations. “I wouldn’t say guilty, but there have been times when societal pressures weigh heavily,” she acknowledged, particularly when it comes to family responsibilities. The pressure to conform to traditional gender roles is something she has felt, but she believes that following her passion can coexist with her family life. “It’s essential to challenge these societal norms,” she emphasized, showcasing her commitment to breaking barriers for women. “Women can excel in adventure sports without guilt,” she added, reaffirming her belief that passion and family life can harmoniously coexist.
How did you overcome societal hurdles to become a paragliding pilot?
To overcome societal hurdles, she relied on perseverance and a strong support network. “I focused on my skills and constantly reminded myself of my passion for flying,” she shared. Her achievements not only proved her capabilities but also began to shift perceptions about what women can achieve in adventure sports. “With each success, I demonstrated that a woman could excel in this industry,” she remarked. Her accomplishments in the paragliding championship at the 9th National Games, where she secured 3rd position among women, further boosted her credibility and showcased the potential of women in the field. “These achievements helped break down barriers and inspire others to believe in women’s place in adventure sports,” she added confidently.
What support did you receive from your family and friends in your journey?
She considers herself fortunate to have received immense support from her family and friends, especially her husband, who is also a paragliding pilot. “I’ve been fortunate to have tremendous support from my family and friends,” she shared. “My family has always encouraged me to pursue my dreams. Despite societal gossip, they recognized my passion for paragliding and stood by me, offering unwavering support, particularly during the early stages of my career.” Her husband has played a pivotal role, not just as a partner but also as a mentor, sharing his experiences and insights into paragliding. This strong familial support helped her navigate the challenges she faced, highlighting the vital role family plays in pursuing one’s ambitions.
Do you believe there is a future for women in the paragliding sector?
“Absolutely,” she affirmed when asked about the future of women in paragliding. She is confident that as more women enter the field, they will inspire future generations. “The future is bright for women in the paragliding sector,” she stated emphatically. She believes the growing international demand for female pilots reflects a changing landscape in adventure sports, offering significant opportunities for women. “Solo paragliding, in particular, presents not only a lucrative opportunity for individuals but also contributes to the economic upliftment of our communities,” she added, highlighting the potential growth and recognition for women in the industry.
What message would you give to women who aspire to be paragliding pilots?
“Never let gender be a barrier,” she encourages aspiring female pilots. She urges them to pursue their passions relentlessly, despite the challenges. “Paragliding is an expensive sport that requires significant investment, but with determination and support from your community, you can succeed,” she advises. She emphasizes that success in the field is not about gender but about skill and passion. “Solo paragliding can also be a great avenue for income generation in Nepal, and I strongly encourage women to explore this opportunity,” she adds, inspiring confidence in those who may hesitate.
In your opinion, what contributions does paragliding make to the tourism sector in Nepal?
She emphasizes the significant impact of paragliding on Nepal’s tourism sector. “Paragliding is a crucial driver of tourism in Nepal,” she explained. “Pokhara, as a paragliding hub, attracts international tourists, contributing to the local economy and creating jobs.” She points out that solo paragliding, in particular, stands out as a lucrative avenue, offering the highest income potential for pilots. With proper management and promotion, she believes the sector can experience tremendous growth, benefiting local communities and enhancing the national economy. “In fact, in 2019, paragliding secured second place in the national championship, further elevating its profile as a key adventure sport in Nepal,” she noted, highlighting the sport’s role in establishing Nepal as a prominent travel destination while also providing sustainable income for local families.
How does your role as a pilot contribute to the local economy?
As a paragliding pilot, she plays a crucial role in the local economy through training, guiding, and providing services to tourists. “I directly contribute to the local economy by offering training and guiding services,” she noted. “Each flight not only showcases the breathtaking beauty of our landscapes but also helps local businesses thrive, from hotels to restaurants,” she emphasizes that this symbiotic relationship enhances the overall experience for both tourists and locals, demonstrating how adventure sports can drive economic development in Nepal. “My role in promoting solo paragliding can attract even more tourists, further supporting economic growth in the region,” she added, highlighting the potential of paragliding to positively impact the local economy.
What advice would you give to aspiring female pilots in terms of training and preparation?
She advises aspiring female pilots to seek comprehensive training and experience with reputable instructors. “I recommend participating in workshops and practicing as much as possible,” she said. “The more prepared you are, the more confident you will feel in your abilities.” She also emphasizes the importance of building a strong network with other pilots, as mentorship can provide invaluable support throughout their journey in paragliding. “Engaging in solo paragliding practice can further enhance your skills and improve your income potential,” she added, highlighting the significance of preparation and community in achieving success in the sport.
What skills do you think are essential for someone considering a career in paragliding?
According to her, essential skills for anyone considering a career in paragliding include strong decision-making abilities, excellent communication skills, and a solid understanding of weather conditions. “Key skills encompass strong decision-making, effective communication, and a good grasp of weather patterns,” she explained. “Physical fitness is crucial, as is mental resilience to handle unexpected situations.” She further emphasized the importance of adaptability and a commitment to continuous learning, stating, “These qualities will greatly benefit anyone in this field, especially in solo paragliding, where quick thinking is often necessary.”
Have you ever felt pressure to conform to traditional gender roles because of your profession?
She acknowledges the pressure she has felt to conform to traditional gender roles. “Yes, there have been times when I’ve felt that pressure,” she admitted. “However, I choose to focus on what I love rather than conforming to societal expectations. By challenging these norms, I believe I can pave the way for future female adventurers. My journey in paragliding is about proving that women can thrive in this field without compromising their identity or passions.”
What changes would you like to see in society regarding women’s participation in adventure sports?
She expressed her desire for greater acceptance and encouragement for women in adventure sports. “I would love to see more support for women in this field,” she stated. “It’s essential to create an environment where women feel empowered to pursue their passions without fear of judgment. Increased representation in leadership roles within the sports community would further facilitate this change, fostering a more inclusive atmosphere for everyone. Solo paragliding can play a crucial role in this transformation by showcasing successful female pilots and inspiring others.”
How can families and communities better support women pursuing careers in paragliding?
She emphasizes the crucial role families and communities play in supporting young women pursuing careers in paragliding. “Families should encourage women to follow their dreams rather than imposing traditional expectations on them,” she urged. She believes that open communication and genuine encouragement are vital. “Communities can also contribute by offering opportunities for women to engage in adventure sports through workshops and training programs,” she suggested. In her experience, “supportive families and communities make all the difference in breaking down barriers and helping women achieve their goals.”
Sharmila’s journey as a paragliding pilot is characterized by passion, resilience, and a commitment to breaking barriers for women in adventure sports. With the unwavering support of her family, including her husband, she inspires others while actively contributing to the growth of paragliding in Nepal. Her message resonates deeply with aspiring female pilots: pursue your dreams, challenge societal norms, and let your passion take flight. Having completed over 5,000 flights to date, she expresses immense happiness and fulfillment in her profession.
