IFF held its Women’s Career Enhancement Program at Gokarna Forest Resort, Kathmandu, Nepal, on Sunday 1 September 2024.
The Women’s Career Enhancement Programme, organized by Inclusive Futures Foundation (IFF) and its team members, was designed to empower women by enhancing their skills and knowledge in communication, time management, stress management, and leadership. The event brought together women from various backgrounds to participate in a series of interactive sessions, skill-building activities, and discussions led by experts. Supported by a dedicated team of IFF volunteers, the programme aimed to provide participants with the tools needed for personal growth, professional advancement, and societal impact.
The main objectives of the programme were to:
- Develop communication and interpersonal skills
- Enhance time and stress management capabilities
- Foster decision-making and problem-solving skills
- Promote personal advancement and capacity enhancement
- Encourage socialization and understanding of gender roles within society
- Support entrepreneurship and leadership development among women
The programme began with a warm welcome and introduction by Dr Juhi Gupta, a distinguished academic and visionary leader dedicated to women empowerment and social upliftment. She introduced the Inclusive Futures Foundation, highlighting its mission and vision. Mr. Yubak Raj Ghimire provided a brief introduction to the event, setting the tone and expectations for the day’s sessions and activities. These included sessions on:
Self-Management and Change
Facilitated by Ms. Rajani Rajbhandari, a trainer from BPW (Business Professional Women), this session covered techniques for self-management and adapting to change, including an engaging role play to reinforce key concepts.
Communication Skills Development
Ms. Rajani Rajbhandari led sessions on the basics of communication, socialization, and the impact of gender on societal roles. Ms. Khina Maya Bista Adhikari further expanded on gender and communication, focusing on the dynamics of effective communication at home, in the community, and beyond.
Problem Solving and Decision Making
Co-facilitated by Ms. Rajani Rajbhandari and Ms. Khina Maya Bista Adhikari, this session emphasized practical strategies for solving problems and making decisions effectively, both personally and professionally.
Time and Stress Management
This session, also led by Ms. Rajani and Ms. Khina, provided insights into managing time efficiently and coping with stress, equipping participants with techniques to balance their personal and professional lives.
Participants, including Ms. Sharmila Pariyar and Ms. Mamata Tamang Koirala, shared their feedback on the sessions, highlighting key takeaways and areas of impact.
Ms. Shanta Laxmi Shrestha (Advocate of Gender Equality, Executive Advisor of the Beyond Beijing Committee) delivered a powerful message on gender advocacy, urging participants to embrace leadership roles and advocate for gender equality.
Dr Juhi Gupta extended a heartfelt vote of thanks to all speakers, organizers, and participants for their contributions to the success of the event. Dr Suresh Kunwar concluded the programme with closing remarks, expressing gratitude to all involved.
The Women’s Career Enhancement Programme successfully met its objectives by:
- Enhancing participants’ communication skills and understanding of the role of gender in society
- Providing practical tools for managing time, stress, and decision-making challenges
- Fostering a sense of unity and collaboration through interactive activities and discussions
- Encouraging women to embrace personal and professional growth, and to take on leadership roles
- Building a network of empowered women committed to supporting each others’ journeys towards success
The programme was a significant step towards empowering women, equipping them with valuable skills, and inspiring them to pursue their ambitions with confidence.