South Asian Women Development Forum (SAWDF) organized its Annual General Meeting on 14th Bhadra 2081 in Kathmandu, under the inspiring theme, "Equality Begins with Economic Empowerment." This milestone event not only highlighted SAWDF's ongoing commitment to women's economic empowerment but also served as a crucial platform for discussing the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for women entrepreneurs across Nepal and South Asia.
The AGM was graced by the presence of esteemed guests, including Ms. Patricia Fernandez-Pacheco, UN Women’s Country Representative to Nepal, and Dr. Bhola Thapa, Vice Chancellor of Kathmandu University. As the technical partner for SAWDF's Women Entrepreneurs Parks in Provinces 3 and 1, Kathmandu University plays a pivotal role in providing essential technical support and knowledge to these groundbreaking projects.
Ms. Fernandez-Pacheco emphasized the urgent need to accelerate gender equality to build a more inclusive economy. She underscored the critical importance of making significant changes to achieve the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. Without decisive action, the goal of creating an equitable and sustainable future for all will remain out of reach.
Dr. Thapa highlighted the transformative power of education in advancing gender equity. He proudly noted that nearly half of Kathmandu University's graduates are women, many of whom are excelling in fields such as medicine, IT, and development. His remarks stressed the pivotal role that education plays in empowering women and its broader implications for achieving gender equality.
SAWDF President Pramila Acharya Rijal reflected on the organization's significant milestones and challenges over the past decade. She reaffirmed SAWDF’s unwavering commitment to advancing the economic empowerment of women in Nepal and South Asia, emphasizing the need for continued collaboration and innovation.
Hon'ble Yankila Sherpa, Senior Vice President of SAWDF, Member of the Provincial Assembly of Bagmati Province, and Former Minister for Tourism, highlighted SAWDF's potential to significantly impact the tourism sector. She noted that SAWDF's strong presence across South Asia is a valuable asset in boosting regional tourism and furthering economic opportunities for women.
During the event, SAWDF also honored its founder members for their invaluable contributions to the organization's establishment and growth. The ceremony recognized Ms. Meera Jyoti, Ms. Shreejana Rana, Ms. Samjhana Acharya, Dr. Sheela Verma, and Ms. Swastika Sirohiya, who was represented by her daughter-in-law and Miss Nepal World 2018, Ms. Shrinkhala Khatiwada.
The AGM saw the active participation of all SAWDF member organizations, including Trans-Himalayan Environment and Livelihood Program (T-Help) Nepal,Federation of Business and Professional Women Nepal, Manushi Nepal, Fair Trade Group Nepal, Federation of Nepal Cottage and Small Industries (FNCSI) Nepal, Confederation of Nepalese Industries-Women Leadership Forum, HomeNet South Asia, Organics Association Nepal (OAN), Federation of Export Entrepreneurs Nepal (FEEN), R&D Innovative Solutions, and Nepalese Young Entrepreneurs' Forum (NYEF) Kathmandu Chapter. Additionally, women business leaders, professionals, and entrepreneurs from organizations such as the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI), Sabah Nepal, WEAN Association, WEAN Cooperatives, the Association for Craft Producers (ACP), Zonta Club of Kathmandu, Federation of Handicraft Associations of Nepal (FHAN) and Jahyul were also present.
The meeting concluded with remarks from SAWDF General Secretary Sharada Rijal, who expressed gratitude for the continued support and commitment of all members and partners. As SAWDF continues its mission to empower women entrepreneurs across Nepal and South Asia, the AGM served as a powerful platform for reflection, discussion, and strategic planning for the future.
