International Women's Day
Women Inspire Us
25 Years of Supporting Women's Empowerment
On March 8, for International Women's Rights Day, Karuna-Shechen reaffirms its commitment to women's empowerment. For 25 years, we have been working alongside women in India and Nepal to give them the means to choose their future, strengthen their role in society, and inspire lasting change.
A Path to Emancipation Still Hindered
Even today, millions of women face systemic discrimination, limiting their access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. In India, according to the 2017 World Economic Forum report, the country ranked 108th out of 144 in terms of women's rights. In Nepal, despite progress, challenges remain: in 2021, the female literacy rate stood at 63.33%.
In both countries, inequalities are often reinforced by restrictive social norms, which are deeply rooted in traditional values. However, every woman who manages to break these barriers inspires a broader change. Her individual victories transform her family, her community, and future generations.
Projects addressing specific needs
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At Karuna-Shechen, we have always been committed to developing projects that meet the specific needs of communities. For 25 years, we have focused on initiatives that support and empower women such as menstrual hygiene awareness programs to break taboos, microcredit access to help women start and grow their businesses, and e-rickshaw driver training to provide new mobility and independence.
These projects, designed in collaboration with women and tailored to their realities, equip them to become agents of change, strengthen their ability to take action, and sustainably transform their environment.
Your donation empowers women in India and Nepal to take control of their own lives.
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Drawing inspiration from motivating life stories
For 25 years, personal journeys have intertwined to create a collective human adventure. At Karuna-Shechen, hundreds of people work to empower and uplift local communities. Inspiring women like, Sunita, Director of Karuna-Shechen Nepal, and Shobha, an e-rickshaw driver in northern India, remind us that courage and determination can move mountains.
Discover their stories
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Sunita Sharma
A model of benevolence in action
Sunita embodies the quiet strength that makes Karuna-Shechen shine in Nepal. Having begun her career with passion and determination, she is now Country Director. Her benevolence guides her steps, whether she's inspiring her team, breaking down gender barriers or accompanying vulnerable communities. Her story is a tribute to the power of servant leadership.
Shobha Devi
Driving change
For the past 10 years, Shobha has been criss-crossing the roads behind the wheel of her e-rickshaw, ensuring the financial stability of her household. As the first female driver in her village, she has bravely confronted criticism and prejudice, proving that women have their rightful place in the public arena. By becoming the economic pillar of her family, she inspired other women to follow her example and take the road to independence.
Exploring the narratives of women transforming their communities
On International Women's Rights Day, discover inspiring portraits of women who are changing the world. Read about Karuna-Shechen’s programs which support their empowerment. These stories and initiatives highlight the strength and dedication of those who, with Karuna’s support, are taking control of their future and transforming their communities.
