"EmpowHER"

strong women, strong communities

Nepal is known for its cultural diversity but also for relatively rigid social structures. Women, in particular, often suffer from discrimination based on their gender, social class, or age and frequently become victims of domestic violence. Alarmingly, the suicide rate among young women is very high, making it the leading cause of death in this age group. This underscores the importance of empowering women in Nepal and facilitating their access to education.

"EmpowHER" enables young women to participate in workshops and training sessions on topics such as mental health, women’s rights, and stress management. They acquire practical knowledge in these areas, allowing them to improve their living conditions and health sustainably. The young women develop leadership skills that empower them to disseminate what they have learned within their communities and actively advocate for gender equality.

Additionally, Safe Spaces are created where women can meet in small groups to share their experiences. These protected spaces foster solidarity and provide support while promoting education through knowledge-sharing. Complementary intergenerational and gender-inclusive exchanges also involve men and older individuals to discuss and advance gender equality on a broader societal level.

By empowering the participants, the project helps them improve their own living conditions and positions them as role models and multipliers. They share their knowledge within their communities, creating an environment where discrimination can be gradually dismantled. In this way, the project makes a significant contribution to addressing the inequalities that have persisted for generations in Nepalese society.

Kathmandu Valley

Around 600 young Nepalese women per year who are disadvantaged due to different reasons

Young women stand up for their rights and gender equality in a self-determined way

Horyzon in partnership with YWCA Nepal

Total contribution from Horyzon for 2025: CHF 110,000

Project exists since: 2023 Current project phase: 2025 - 2028