June 9, 2025
In May 2025, the WAWCAS program conducted two dynamic and profound residential workshops to bring together empowered women from across districts. These gatherings provided safe spaces for learning, sharing, reflection, and celebration of personal and group achievements.
Workshop Locations & Participation
The workshops began with high energy and creativity. A lively icebreaker involving balloons and picture matching helped participants pair up, introduce each other, and share about their businesses, five-year goals, and reflections on life. Many described life as a “drama” full of both struggles and beauty—emphasizing perseverance and resilience.
Setting the Tone: Norms and Expectations
Clear norms were set:
Participants expressed their desire to:
Workshop Objectives
The sessions were designed to:
Games and energizers brought joy and strengthened group bonding. A total of 26 women shared their stories across both workshops.
Voices of Change: Personal Story
Smriti (Lalitpur):
“After seven days of training, I’m a different person. I left an abusive home, live with my mother, and have started a small business. I feel proud and independent.”
Parbati Pulami Magar (Kathmandu):
“I learned to make incense sticks and started a small factory with three women. We grew from a rented room to a bigger space and now train others. All thanks to WAWCAS.”
Manju BK – Rautahat
Manju BK from Rautahat shares how her life has transformed since joining the WAWCAS program. One of the most meaningful changes, she says, is no longer wearing the gumto (face covering), which had limited her freedom and confidence. “Not wearing the gumto has made it so much easier to work and participate actively in my community.” “Being a Dalit used to feel like a sin in our community. But now, things have changed.”
Manju started a goat farming business with an initial investment of NPR 25,000. She is confident that he business will grow. Her story reflects not just economic empowerment but also a deep shift in social attitudes and personal confidence.
Bhakti Maya Gurung (Lamjung):
“At first, it was hard to convince women to learn without allowances, but now I love it. I eat healthy, plan better, and my kids stay off their phones. PCA tools changed my thinking.”
Sundari (Tanahun):
“A single mother with nothing… to a goat farmer with eight goats in just eight months! The training gave me knowledge I never imagined. I now share this with others.”
Creative Sharing and LNGO Engagement
Participants formed groups and presented their WAWCAS journey using drama, painting, storytelling, and songs. These heartfelt presentations showcased the transformation they’ve undergone—from silence and struggle to confidence and leadership.
A dedicated session on LNGOs was met with great enthusiasm. Many were curious and inspired to be part of these local organizations after WAWCAS program exited..
Workshop Evaluation: All Smiles and Sunshine!
Participants evaluated the workshops using a creative weather symbol method. Almost everyone marked their experience as “sunny”—a beautiful reflection of their joy, learning, and connection.
Final Reflections: A Team Effort
The final team review echoed a strong sense of satisfaction. Every detail—from planning to execution—was the result of dedicated teamwork. These workshops were not just workshops—they were movements of hope, connection, and transformation.
WAWCAS continues to walk alongside women as they build better futures for themselves and their families. These workshops were living proof that when women are given tools, training, and trust, they rise.
Let us continue to support and celebrate every step they take.
Together, we build. Together, we thrive.