to thrive
We help empower women in Nepal who have experienced violence or abuse to rebuild their lives.
the samunnat project
Samunnat Nepal, based in Birtamod in eastern Nepal, became a registered Nepali NGO in 2007. It works to empower women who have experienced violence or abuse so that they have greater control of their lives. It provides women with material support, counselling, accommodation, legal representation, income generation training, mentoring and human rights information. It also has a microfinance organisation, Jalkanya Krishi Cooperative, providing small loans to build financial independence. Samunnat’s programs are mostly funded by the sale of jewellery made by women in its polymer jewellery program.
Samunnat Inc, based in Australia, partners with Samunnat Nepal . It exists to support and to raise funds for the Nepali organisation. In particular, it sells and distributes jewellery made by the Samunnat women; purchases and provides materials not available in Nepal; liaises with international partners; and raises additional funds. It is a sounding board and a resource for ideas. Its members spend regular time helping to build capacity in Nepal. Several international individuals and communities contribute to this project. From 2024, Samunnat is also receiving generous support from the J.C. Freeman Trust.
People involved in Samunnat believe that sustained change occurs when women drive their own development. Partnerships should be long term and respect local knowledge and expertise. This partnership with Samunnat Nepal dates from the organisation’s earliest days.
Our values are
Collaboration
Consultation
Compassion
Clear, open communication
Samunnat Nepal has built a great home, with space for work, training, accommodation, office and shops
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…and if you’re not buying our wonderful jewellery you are very welcome to donate. Samunnat Nepal welcomes untied donations, unless the Board has requested for a specific purpose.
All donations in Australia over $2 are tax deductible
But the words of the women of Samunnat ten years ago were very clear. ‘We should have been told about these things and we need to know.’ These books can help to bring about that knowing.