Surya Maharjan, a thriving businesswoman in the diamond and jewelry trade, attributes her success to the unwavering support of her family, both male and female. Â Maharjan, who currently runs Queens Diamond & Jewelry in Jackson Heights, New York, spoke about her journey, struggles, and the guiding lights along the way.
Maharjan’s foray into the diamond business began after marriage. Initially a teacher, she received inspiration from her mother-in-law to enter the family business, spearheaded by her husband Samir Maharjan. She underwent a five-year training course at CG International in Mumbai, India, before returning to Nepal to manage the family’s factory.
“Behind the success of a woman, other female members of the family also have a hand,” Maharjan remarked, highlighting the crucial role her mother and mother-in-law played in her professional development.
Balancing work and family life presented its own set of challenges, particularly after Maharjan immigrated to the USA with young children. “It was very difficult,” she recalled. “But I got a husband who supported me a lot. He encouraged me that this is a job you have learned, you should work.”
Maharjan credits her husband Samir for his unwavering encouragement, especially considering the language barrier they faced upon arriving in the USA. “We came to the USA from Nepal and was not even used to speaking English,” she said. “It was not easy for us to come to this place and do business.”
Despite the challenges, Maharjan persevered. She emphasizes the importance of education and confidence for women venturing into business. “The main thing we need in our life is education,” she stated. “Second, confidence. If we do not have confidence through education, we cannot continue this business journey.”
Maharjan advocates for women’s empowerment and believes that Nepali men should play a more supportive role in their wives’ entrepreneurial pursuits. “In Nepali society, there is a great need for men to help women,” she stressed.
Looking ahead, Maharjan expressed plans to expand her business ventures, including incorporating gold sales and opening stores in two more US cities. Her social work ambitions also came to light, mentioning an upcoming project focused on assisting Nepali women through a foundation named after her mother-in-law.
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Deepak Pariyar
View More PostsJournalist Deepak Pariyar is the editor of Khasokhas, a publication amplifying the voices of the Nepali diaspora in the USA since 2012. A champion against discrimination, he has held leadership roles in journalist organizations.
