The Nepali Women’s Global Network (NWGN) held a meeting in Kathmandu at the Radisson Hotel on January 25 to explore the possibility of establishing a chapter in Nepal. Over twenty individuals attended from various backgrounds.

NWGN has been gaining momentum in the past few years and believes that establishing a chapter in Nepal will allow for networking and collaboration opportunities across various service areas.

NWGN stands out among other Nepali organizations in the sense that it is a voice for advocacy for Nepali women in Nepal and abroad. It is a forum where academics, practitioners, and community members can promote networking, support and self-reliance among Nepali women through education, advocacy, service and collaboration with groups that share similar missions.

NWGN aims to increase awareness of issues relating to Nepali women’s empowerment. Concerns such as violence against women, women’s mental and

physical health, economic and social justice are some of the subjects addressed

in the public forums provided by the organization. Additionally, NWGN promotes collaborations between various organizations to provide greater networking opportunities for women.

Ms. Biva Ranjeet, former vice president of NWGN, provided the background of the organization and guided the discussion regarding the need for a chapter in Nepal. Ms. Ranjeet highlighted some of the past activities of NWGN, including conferences with speakers from Nepal including Sapana Malla Pradhan, Mandira Sharma and most recently, Dilshobha Shrestha. NWGN was in fact instrumental in raising more than $24,000 during Ms. Shrestha’s trip to the United States this past October. Ms. Ranjeet also shared some of the potential roles of the Chapter and guided the discussion, including the role of serving as a watchdog on important issues affecting women.

Mr. Pralhad KC, NRN-NCC USA President, who attended the meeting spoke about the collaboration between NWGN and NRN. The meeting was a great success. A follow-up meeting will take place in February to further discuss the establishment of the chapter, including selection of boards.