
About Us
MEMBSA Nepal: Empowering Women and Children in Remote Areas:
*Mechi Mahakali Buhari Sanyukt Awaaj (MEMBSA) Nepal* is a dynamic and advocacy-focused non-governmental organization dedicated to the welfare of women and children, especially in remote areas. Established by married women of Nepal, MEMBSA addresses economic, social, educational, and political challenges, focusing on combating violence and empowering communities through various initiatives.
# Key Initiatives
# Education
MEMBSA prioritizes education for children in rural regions, believing that education is fundamental to improving living standards. The organization undertakes initiatives such as building schools, distributing educational materials, and conducting teacher training programs. These efforts aim to increase school enrollment and ensure that children receive quality education.
# Healthcare
To address healthcare challenges in remote areas, MEMBSA organizes health camps providing medical check-ups, medicine distribution, and health awareness programs. These health camps are crucial in improving health outcomes for communities with limited access to healthcare services.
# Economic Empowerment
MEMBSA conducts various vocational training programs to empower women economically. These programs include skill-based training, business advice, and financial support, helping women become self-sufficient and financially independent.
# Anti-Violence Initiatives
The organization is active in raising awareness about violence against women through public awareness programs. MEMBSA works to publicize incidents of violence, provide legal assistance, and offer psychological counseling to victims. These initiatives are vital in protecting women’s rights and ensuring justice for victims of violence.
# Notable Projects
# Sushmita KC Case
MEMBSA played a pivotal role in seeking justice for Sushmita KC, a case that highlighted the organization's commitment to fighting violence against women. MEMBSA provided legal assistance, raised public awareness, and coordinated with government bodies to ensure that justice was served. This case exemplifies MEMBSA’s dedication to advocacy and legal support for women.
# Strategic Meeting with the Minister of Education
Following the Mugu campaign, Yaman Sharma Poudel, Punka, and other top MEMBSA leaders met with the Minister of Education to discuss their findings and collaborative strategies. They provided a comprehensive briefing on the challenges observed in Mugu, emphasizing the need for:
1. *Enhanced Resource Allocation*: Ensuring consistent and adequate supply of educational materials and developing school infrastructure in remote areas.
2. *Policy Implementation Support*: Increasing cooperation between the central government and local authorities, along with regular monitoring and evaluation mechanisms.
3. *Preventing Child Labor*: Introducing economic support programs for families and continuing awareness campaigns to educate parents about the benefits of education and the risks of child labor.
The meeting concluded with commitments to better resource allocation, support for MEMBSA’s awareness campaigns, and the formation of a joint task force to enhance the implementation of the free education policy.
# Leadership and Inspiration
The leadership of Yaman Sharma Poudel and Chandrakala Kafle has been instrumental in MEMBSA’s success. Their strong partnership and collective efforts have inspired other members, fostering a spirit of unity and coordination within the organization. Their initiatives, particularly the education and health campaign in Mugu, have positively influenced the community and set a precedent for effective advocacy.
# Other Notable Members
MEMBSA includes notable figures such as Sushila Thing and Jubeda Khatun, who are currently serving as federal parliament members. Their involvement in politics exemplifies the influence and encouragement of MEMBSA. Additionally, Puja Damodar, a successful entrepreneur running Purvanchal Café, and Vidya Timilsina, a central member of the Nepali Congress and coordinator for Karnali Province, are significant members contributing to the organization’s goals.
# Impact and Legacy
MEMBSA’s efforts have had a substantial positive impact across various sectors. Its programs have significantly improved the lives of women and children in remote and underdeveloped regions. Through initiatives in education, healthcare, and economic empowerment, MEMBSA has contributed to raising living standards and fostering social progress. Internationally, MEMBSA continues to champion women’s rights, advocating for their voices to be heard worldwide.
# Conclusion
MEMBSA Nepal’s journey is marked by its commitment to social improvement and women’s empowerment. The organization’s work extends beyond individual lives, contributing to broader societal development. As MEMBSA continues its mission, it remains a beacon of hope and a model of effective community-driven advocacy, demonstrating the power of collective efforts and strategic leadership in creating lasting change.
Mission
# Organizational Structure and Vision
Headquartered in Birtamod, Jhapa, MEMBSA operates in over 50 districts across Nepal and has expanded its presence internationally with an office in Washington D.C. Yaman Sharma Poudel, founder and president of MEMBSA International, and Chandrakala Kafle (Punka), president of MEMBSA Nepal, lead the organization with a clear vision: "Until women in remote areas are trained and included in social and political processes, true representation of women cannot be achieved. Opportunities should not be limited to privileged and educated women alone." This vision aims to disrupt the status quo, advocating for the inclusion of all women in leadership and representation roles.
# Education and Health Campaign in Mugu
In the remote district of Mugu, MEMBSA conducted a comprehensive campaign to improve education and healthcare services. This campaign involved multiple facets:
- *Collaboration with Local Officials*: MEMBSA met with local elected officials and the head of the government’s district branch to discuss the joint implementation of the government’s free education policy. They strategized on preventing children from migrating to India for labor due to poverty.