Raising Story of Bishrampur - WEC Center
The Ujjwal Women Empowerment Center, based in Ward No. 3, Bishrampur Tole of Brindaban Municipality, has become a symbol of change in women's lives. Backed by KOICA and Oxfam, and executed by RDC Nepal under the "Empowering Her" project, this initiative has delivered substantial transformation to the lives of 25 women in the community.
Previously, these women's lives were largely restricted to their homes. They had limited knowledge about savings, household budgeting, insurance, or financial institutions. Many could not even write their own names, sign and were reluctant to speak in public. A lack of confidence and exposure prevented them from participating in family and community decision-making processes.
However, since joining the "Empowering Her" project, significant changes have begun to take shape. Through regular sessions, discussions, and hands-on activities, the women have developed financial literacy and awareness. They have started opening bank accounts and engaging in both individual and group savings. Today, they are not only managing household budgets but also involved in income-generating activities such as commercial vegetable farming. Most importantly, their confidence has grown remarkably. They are now able to visit ward and municipal offices and confidently assert their rights in front of the ward chairperson.
A key factor behind this transformation has been the Gender Action Learning System (GALS) methodology. Through this participatory approach, the group members have actively engaged in discussions and set clear life goals such as building their own houses, ensuring higher education for their children, and becoming more aware of and vocal about women's rights. They learned to visualize their "dreams" and map practical paths to achieve them. By drawing their aspirations and analyzing their current situation, they identified both opportunities and challenges on their journey.
At first, many participants struggled to express their goals through drawings. However, with consistent practice, peer learning, and group discussions, they gradually became more confident and capable of articulating their visions. They also developed structured planning skills by setting a one-year goal along with short-term targets for three, six, and nine months. This step-by-step planning has helped them stay focused, motivated, and accountable in achieving their dreams.
One participant beautifully captured this transformation by saying, "It was difficult to dream and put it into a plan at first, but once I understood it, I felt happy. When you create a goal (dream), it becomes easier to reach your destination."
The story of the Ujjwal Women Empowerment Center clearly illustrates how the right support, knowledge, and tools can empower women to transform their lives. It reflects a journey from hesitation to confidence, from dependence to self-reliance, and from silence to active participation. Today, these women are not only improving their own livelihoods but are also contributing to positive change within their families and the broader community.
