From Pokhara to Sydney: A Journey of Hope
Founded as a sister initiative to Sahara Club Pokhara, our journey began with a simple yet powerful belief: every child deserves a chance. Over the years, we have grown from organizing football matches to running annual tournaments like the Sahara Australia Cup, whose proceeds support the life-changing work of the Sahara Academy in Pokhara.
More than just a football club, we are a registered not-for-profit organization passionate about creating real-world impact both locally in Australia and internationally in Nepal.
The Heart of Our Mission
Sahara Club Australia exists to empower underprivileged youth through sport, education, and community. Our partner organization operates a comprehensive social football academy that has become home to dozens of underprivileged children, including orphans and street boys from various districts across Nepal.
Providing not just football training, but also shelter, education, and life skills to transform young lives completely.
Producing talented players who represent Nepal at national and international levels, showcasing the power of opportunity.
Actively engaging in public health initiatives and environmental programs that benefit entire communities.
Creating a model that other organizations can follow and replicate, ensuring lasting change for generations.
It brings me immense pride and gratitude to share a few words as the President of Sahara Club Australia. My journey with the Sahara family began over two decades ago when I joined Sahara Club Pokhara as a general member during my high school days. What started as a simple passion for football quickly turned into a lifelong commitment to a cause much greater than the game itself—uplifting the lives of underprivileged children through sports and social engagement.
When I moved to Australia in 2016, my connection with Sahara only deepened. I became actively involved with Sahara Club Australia, a sister branch of our beloved Sahara Club Pokhara. Here, far from home, I’ve seen how powerful the spirit of community and purpose can be—even thousands of miles away. It fills my heart with joy to see our diaspora coming together to support the academy in Pokhara, which has transformed the lives of countless street children and orphans. Their journey from hardship to hope, from dusty streets to the national football team, is a reminder of what compassion and commitment can achieve.
At this stage, our efforts in Australia go beyond supporting the goals of Sahara Pokhara. Through initiatives like the Sahara Australia Cup, we are creating a space where young people from our community can connect, compete, and grow—not just physically, but mentally and emotionally. In a time when mental health challenges are on the rise among youth, sports offer a powerful tool for healing, confidence-building, and social inclusion. Our tournament is more than just a game; it is a bridge—uniting generations, creating friendships, and reinforcing a sense of belonging.
We honour and remember Late Razman Thakali, the visionary founder and first president of Sahara Club Australia. It was through his passion, leadership, and unwavering belief in the power of football and community that this journey began. His dream of building a bridge between Nepal and Australia—through social service, youth engagement, and support for underprivileged children—continues to guide us every day.
Razman Dai’s legacy lives on in every tournament we organize, every child we support, and every life we touch. Though he is no longer with us, his spirit remains deeply rooted in the heart of Sahara Club Australia. We are forever grateful for the foundation he laid and the
inspiration he left behind.
Forever remembered. Forever respected.”
What Drives Us Every Day
We believe that strong communities create strong individuals. Every event we organize strengthens bonds within the Nepalese-Australian community while reaching out to embrace all Australians.
Every dollar donated is accounted for. We maintain open books and regular communication about how funds are used to support the Sahara Football Academy in Pokhara.
Football is a universal language that breaks down barriers. Our events welcome participants from all backgrounds, skill levels, and ages.
We’re not just raising money; we’re building lasting relationships and creating systems that will continue supporting vulnerable children for years to come.
Making a Difference That Matters
Children nurtured annually at Sahara Academy
Academy alumni playing for Nepal’s National Football Team
Countries: Nepal, Australia, Hong Kong and the UK
Focus on mental health, social inclusion, and public health awareness
United Across Borders for a Common Cause. Sister Organizations of Sahara Club Australia
Our founding partner in Nepal, operating the academy that transforms young lives.
Extending our mission across the United Kingdom with passionate supporters.
Building bridges in Asia with our Hong Kong community partners.
By 2030, we aim to double our impact, expand our tournament footprint, and support even more youth across borders. Our vision is not just about growth in numbers, but about deepening our impact and creating sustainable change that will benefit generations of young people.
We envision a world where every underprivileged child has access to the opportunities they need to thrive, regardless of their circumstances or geographic location. Through sport, education, and community support, we’re building that future one child at a time.
A prestigious community football tournament that brings together teams, fans, and families in a celebration of sport and unity.
Improve Your Mental Health and Well-being
Celebrate Culture Through Sport
Build Connections and Expand Your Network
Sahara Club Australia connects the Nepali diaspora through football tournaments, community service, and fundraising efforts—contributing to education, health, and youth development initiatives both locally and abroad.
INC1600061
ABN: 47 372 905 476
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