Astitwa Nepal is launching its first one-stop service centre, ‘Inara by Astitwa Nepal’, in Sanepa, Lalitpur, on Saturday.

This new initiative is conceptualised as an empowerment hub dedicated to supporting survivors of gender-based violence and marginalised communities by providing a platform for entrepreneurship building, product development, skill development, and sustainable market access.

As part of Project SLASH in support of Otter per Mile of the Waldensian Church of Italy, Action Aid, and collaboration with the survivors themselves, Astitwa Nepal will inaugurate this flagship One Stop Service Center.

‘Inara by Astitwa’ will showcase handcrafted products, including jewellery, macrame, candles, arts and crafts, bags, and crochet items created by survivors. It bridges the gap between skill development and economic independence. It will also provide opportunities for gender based violence survivors to engage and lead the store’s operations, as well as workshops targeted towards customers to build their agency and confidence.

Rumi Rajbhandari, co-founder and vice-president of Inara by Astitwa Nepal’ says, “Every product here carries a story of transformation. Inara is building a future where empowerment is not only possible but visible, lasting, and inspiring.”

Simran Silpakar, co-founder and president at Inara by Astitwa Nepal, says, “The Inara Outlet is a vision brought to life, not only to continue supporting survivors of violence, but also to help them take the next step towards independence. Through this platform, we aim to uplift more survivors and marginalised groups by providing a space to showcase their creations, helping them rebuild their lives and strengthen their livelihoods.”

The One Stop Service Center is part of Astitwa Nepal’s strategy to reduce gender-based violence by strengthening women’s economic resilience and providing a safe space. As survivors gain financial stability, confidence, and market access, they are better equipped to resist abuse and actively participate in their communities.

Recognising the profound impacts of acid and burn violence and other forms of gender-based violence, the hub will be designed to address both the immediate and long-term needs of survivors by offering a comprehensive set of resources that cater to their economic, emotional, and psychological well-being.

The holistic model will combine economic empowerment, emotional healing, and community support, ensuring that survivors are equipped to thrive both personally and professionally.

Astitwa Nepal invites the public to visit Inara by Astitwa, support survivor-led enterprises, and stand in solidarity with women transforming their lives through economic empowerment.