The Tourism Entrepreneur Women Association Nepal (TEWAN) marked its 8th anniversary by organizing a special women’s violence awareness program alongside a community gathering in Pame on Wednesday. The event was held as part of TEWAN’s commitment to promoting women’s empowerment within the tourism sector and concluded with a picnic and interactive discussions.
Call for Safe and Inclusive Environment in Tourism Sector
Speaking as the chief guest, Maniram Lamichhane, Head of the Pokhara Office of Nepal Tourism Board, emphasized the importance of creating a safe environment to ensure meaningful participation of women in the tourism industry. He stressed that tourism development cannot be inclusive unless women feel protected and encouraged to take part in professional opportunities.
Women Must Also Lead the Fight Against Violence: Advocates
Addressing the program, advocate Tara Sharma highlighted that ending violence against women is a shared responsibility. “Blaming men alone will not solve the problem,” she said. “Women must use their rights responsibly and work collectively with all stakeholders to eliminate gender-based violence.” Sharma noted that greater awareness, empowerment, and the courage to speak up are essential steps toward minimizing violence and discrimination.
TEWAN’s Efforts Strengthening Women’s Role in Tourism
TEWAN’s founding president Lucky Karki Chhetri reflected on the organization’s eight-year journey, stating that TEWAN’s initiatives have significantly contributed to increasing women’s meaningful involvement in Nepal’s tourism sector. “Discrimination should not be tolerated, women must voice their concerns,” she said. “Ending violence requires equal support from men as well.”
TEWAN President Shobha Pandey informed that the awareness program was organized to coincide with the final day of the international 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign. She stressed that the event was designed to encourage participants to recognize and report all forms of discrimination.
Empowerment Starts with Women Themselves
Speakers at the program reiterated that women themselves must be capable, confident, and aware in order to combat violence effectively. They emphasized that discriminatory practices, no matter how subtle, should be openly challenged.
The awareness program underscored that increasing women’s leadership in tourism not only empowers individuals but also strengthens the entire industry by promoting diversity, safety, and equal opportunity.
The event, conducted by TEWAN General Secretary Shobha Adhikari Paudel, concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by program coordinator Jayadevi Tiwari. Representatives from various tourism-related fields, women entrepreneurs, and community members attended the program, reaffirming their commitment to supporting women’s rights and safety.
