As we step into 2025, Right at Home is thrilled to celebrate the incredible contributions of our 2024 Caregiver of the Year, Tashi Chophel.

Tashi’s unwavering dedication, exceptional compassion, and holistic approach to caregiving exemplify the core values and mission of Right at Home. This recognition highlights not only Tashi's outstanding achievements but also the profound difference caregivers like him make in the lives of our clients and their families.

We had the pleasure of catching up with Tashi. Read his inspiring interview below!

What drew you to working as an in-home caregiver?

Coming from a humble family in Bhutan, where compassion and care for one another are deeply ingrained in our culture, I have always been inspired to serve others. Growing up, I saw how my family supported each other through challenges which continues even to this day within the Bhutanese society, and that instilled in me a sense of responsibility to help those in need. My medical background provided me with the skills and knowledge to make a meaningful impact, and working as an in-home caregiver allowed me to connect with individuals on a personal level. It was the perfect blend of my professional training and my desire to provide comfort and dignity to others. Witnessing the positive changes in the lives of those I care for is deeply fulfilling and motivates me every day.

Moreover, I have always been inspired by the profound sense of compassion, service, and humility embodied by His Majesty The King. His unwavering dedication to the well-being of the people of Bhutan, especially the most vulnerable, has always been a source of inspiration for me. Growing up, I witnessed how His Majesty led by example, offering care, empathy, and selfless service to those in need, which deeply resonated with me.

This magnanimity, combined with my medical background, inspired me to work as an in-home caregiver. It’s a role where I can uphold similar values of compassion and service by directly improving the quality of life of others. Working as a caregiver allows me to blend my professional training with the deep sense of duty and humanity I’ve learned from His Majesty’s example. Every moment I spend caring for someone reminds me of the privilege of serving others, a value instilled in me by my upbringing and the leadership of my King.

What were the reasons you chose to work for Right at Home?

When I decided to pursue a career as an in-home caregiver in Australia, I was looking for an organisation that shared my values of compassion, respect, and integrity. Right at Home stood out to me because of its reputation for providing personalised and high-quality care, which aligns closely with my commitment to serving others with dignity and empathy.

Additionally, the organisation’s supportive environment and focus on continuous professional development were key factors in my decision. Coming from Bhutan, where community and care are central to our way of life, I found that Right at Home’s mission resonated deeply with my personal beliefs and cultural values. The opportunity to work with a team that prioritises not only the physical well-being but also the emotional and social needs of clients made it the perfect choice for me.

What motivates you to work as a caregiver?

My motivation to work as a caregiver stems from a deep sense of compassion and the joy of making a meaningful difference in someone’s life. Growing up in Bhutan, I was surrounded by a culture of kindness and a strong sense of community, where caring for others was a way of life. My medical background has further equipped me to provide the support and comfort that people need during vulnerable moments. I am profoundly inspired by His Majesty the King of Bhutan, whose selfless service and compassion for the people remind me of the importance of humility and empathy. As a caregiver, I have the privilege of practicing these values every day by bringing comfort, dignity, and a sense of connection to those I care for.

The smiles, gratitude, and improved well-being of my clients are incredibly rewarding and serve as constant reminders of why I chose this path. Knowing that I can make a positive impact in someone’s life is what fuels my passion and dedication in this role.

What do you think makes a good caregiver?

A good caregiver is someone who embodies compassion, patience, and a genuine desire to serve others. For me, the qualities of a good caregiver are deeply rooted in the Bhutan’s philosophy of Gross National Happiness (GNH) and the timeless values of Buddhism that my country always endeavour to practice. The philosophy of GNH, which prioritises the well-being and happiness of individuals over material wealth, inspires me to approach caregiving holistically. A good caregiver doesn’t just attend to physical needs but also nurtures the emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being of those in their care. By creating an environment where clients feel respected, valued, and connected, a caregiver contributes to their overall happiness and quality of life.

Buddhist values such as compassion, loving-kindness, and mindfulness guide my approach to caregiving. They remind me to be present in every moment, to care selflessly, and to treat every individual with dignity and respect. These values help me see caregiving not just as a job but as an opportunity to practice empathy and bring comfort and joy to others.

Ultimately, a good caregiver is someone who creates a harmonious balance of care, understanding, and respect, ensuring that every individual they serve feels supported and valued in all aspects of their life.

How do you feel having won the 2024 caregiver of the Year Award?

Winning the 2024 Caregiver of the Year Award is an incredible honour and a deeply humbling experience. To be honest, I didn’t even know such a prestigious award existed for caregivers, let alone expect to receive it. This recognition has left me overwhelmed with gratitude and appreciation. It is a testament not only to my efforts but also to the values, support, and inspiration that have shaped me throughout my journey.

What opportunities has this award opened for you at Right at Home?

Winning the 2024 Caregiver of the Year Award has undoubtedly brought a sense of recognition and opened doors for new opportunities within Right at Home. It has highlighted my dedication and commitment to caregiving, which I hope will inspire others in our team to strive for excellence.

I believe it is up to the organisation to determine how they choose to acknowledge this recognition in terms of opportunities. My role as a caregiver is not driven by awards but by the joy and fulfilment of making a positive impact in someone’s life. This award is a milestone, but my passion for caregiving remains my greatest motivation.

My primary focus remains the same: to serve wholeheartedly and with the same dedication and compassion that I always have. Regardless of any opportunities that may arise, I am committed to continuing to provide the best possible care to those in need.

What advice can you give to others who might not have considered a career in caregiving?

To those who may not have considered a career in caregiving, I would say this: caregiving is not just a job; it is a profoundly rewarding journey of service, compassion, and connection. It offers a unique opportunity to make a meaningful difference in someone’s life while growing as a person.

For those who are already caregivers or aspiring to join this field, I encourage you to embrace the principles of Bhutan’s Gross National Happiness (GNH) philosophy. It reminds us to look beyond material success and focus on the well-being and happiness of individuals. In caregiving, this means attending not only to physical needs but also nurturing emotional, social, and spiritual well-being.

To anyone considering this career, I would say: step forward with an open heart. Caregiving challenges you to grow, helps you understand the deeper meaning of service, and allows you to bring comfort and happiness to those who need it most. It is a path of purpose, deeply aligned with the values of kindness and interconnectedness that we all aspire to uphold.

A Legacy of Care

At Right at Home, we’re more than in-home care providers—we’re trusted guides, compassionate advocates, and dedicated companions, driven by a mission to improve the quality of the lives of those we serve with authenticity and care. Tashi Chophel embodies this commitment, inspiring us to uphold these values every day. As we begin 2025, we reflect on Tashi’s remarkable contributions and the incredible impact he’s made on the lives of those we serve. Congratulations, Tashi, on this well-deserved honour!

Right at Home Australia is a leading provider of quality in-home care. Our mission is to improve the quality of life for those we serve ensuring the Right Care, Right at Home™.  We support people living with complex and post-operative care needs, dementia and cognitive decline, older adults, and adults living with a disability including NDIS participants. Our tailored services help clients to remain safe and independent in their homes. We have 53 territories across Australia and growing. If you are interested in a franchise opportunity with Right at Home, call us on 1300 363 802 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..