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🇳🇵 Nepal /Culture & Society

Nepal women leaders demand real influence, not just representation

From Kathmandu Post · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Context piece
  • Women leaders, entrepreneurs, and activists gathered in Kathmandu to discuss leadership challenges and the need for economic independence and meaningful participation in decision-making.
  • Speakers emphasized that representation alone is insufficient without economic empowerment and institutional support.
  • The event highlighted personal journeys of success, resilience, and the importance of family support in overcoming obstacles.

Women leaders, entrepreneurs, lawmakers, and activists convened in Kathmandu on Wednesday, advocating for genuine influence rather than mere representation. The annual "Nirbhik Nari" conclave, organized by Nari Magazine, focused on the opportunities and challenges women face in leadership, politics, and public life.

Representation alone is not enough without economic independence, institutional support and meaningful participation in decision-making.

— SpeakersDuring the sixth edition of Nirbhik Nari, an annual conclave organised by Nari Magazine.

Speakers stressed that true empowerment requires more than just occupying positions; it necessitates economic independence, robust institutional backing, and significant involvement in decision-making processes. The day-long event featured discussions on leadership, online harassment, political participation, and inclusion, bringing together diverse voices from business, politics, civil society, and advocacy.

I started this at the age of 49. People often think age or educational qualifications determine success. My experience tells me otherwise.

— Sangita PandeyFounder of Aama ko Achar, discussing her entrepreneurial journey.

Panellists from various professional backgrounds, including entrepreneurship and healthcare, shared common themes of self-confidence, financial independence, resilience, and the crucial role of family support. Sangita Pandey, founder of Aama ko Achar, recounted her journey starting with a modest investment and growing her pickle business into an export brand. She emphasized that success is not solely determined by age or education but by determination and a desire for personal identity and independence.

My family was comfortable, but I wanted to create my own identity rather than depend on my husband’s income.

— Sangita PandeyExplaining her motivation for starting a business.

Pandey also addressed the skepticism she faced and the inevitable setbacks in business, such as product loss during international shipments and customs issues. She highlighted the importance of continuous problem-solving and the eventual support from her family, who joined her business. The discussions underscored that while society talks about equality, practical expectations within households can differ, making family support essential for women's advancement.

No work is beneath us, and age is just a number.

— Sangita PandeyResponding to relatives' skepticism about her physically demanding work.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Kathmandu Post in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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