In 1975, on International Women’s Day, three Nepali women in Pokhara, Nepal took 10,000Rs ($100) and started what would be known today as the Women’s Skills Development Organization (WSDO).
In 1977, Ramkali Khadka joined the project and materialized its vision: training in the traditional arts of sewing, cutting and knitting. In addition, educational courses were held as well as health training. These courses were provided in order to raise awareness on women’s rights and also women’s health, advice on family planning and childbirth, and allow for colnsultsations to help abused women. Over time, the main focus became employment opportunities for women so that they could become personally and financially independent.
In 2015, WSDO employed over 500 workers, making a total sale of over $350,000. The employed women are economically disadvantaged, disabled, abused, widowed, divorced, single and outcast. At the empowerment organization, they are being trained to be independent and self-supportive. With free vocational skills training and the tools to plan for the future, thousands of women have benefited from the Women`s Skills Development Organization. They export 80% of their goods to countries including Japan, China, Taiwan, and Korea, Australia, Canada and the US, Germany, the Netherlands, Italy and the UK.
With retail stores, named: WOVEN, located all over Nepal, it was no surprise I stumbled upon one during my time in Thamel, an area of the capital city, Kathmandu. I was immediately impressed with the organization and layout of the products. The staff was incredibly friendly and very helpful. I asked lots of questions about how they got started, what the future looks like for WSDO, and how I could help. So, I left with my handmade pillow cover and small woven Christmas ornament and was immediately inspired by their story.
I will not ever know what these women have had to overcome. Nor the bravery it must have taken for them to make steps towards a future that would ensure an independent, steady income for themselves and their children. What I do know is now that I have been made aware of this incredible initiative, I am responsible to share their story and encourage others to get involved.
If you would like to shop for items, you can visit their website:
They also have a facebook:
You can ship to anywhere in the United States, but they suggest for the cost of shipping that you order about 10 items to make the fees worth it. You can also request items – they make shalls, scarfs, pillow covers, bedspreads, and other large pieces of fabric for your own personal projects. They also have naturally dyed products for purchase. If you are looking for a particular color or size – just shoot the team a quick email and they will be sure to help you find whatever it is you are looking for.
|For more information on the culture of Nepal and how women are viewed here, please read my blog: 41st Day of Ministry |
Ramkali Khadka, Founder of the Women’s Skills Development Organization and Executive Director
This is the entrance to Woven in Thamel, Kathmandu, Nepal
Inside Woven, they have the women’s goods displayed for customers to easily purchase and compare colors and styles.
