We exist to break the cycles of poverty, inequality and violence that perpetuate modern slavery

WHY DO WE SUPPORT WOMEN & GIRLS?

Women and girls account for 54% of 49.6 million people living in modern slavery.
When women and girls are denied their freedom and subjected to violence it is a drag on development for everyone.

It creates immense profits for a select few while denying millions the opportunity to contribute as productive and equal members of society. Gender-based violence leads to significant public health burdens, exacerbated inequality and intergenerational poverty. 
Equipping women and girls with tools and opportunities to lead lives of freedom and equality benefits everyone.


Investing in women and girls’ education and employment pathways not only empowers them to determine their futures, but is a country’s greatest opportunity to achieve multi-generational prosperity.

Educating girls is linked to faster poverty reduction, better maternal health, lower child mortality, and reduced child marriage and violence against women.

Each additional year of schooling boosts a girl’s earnings as an adult by up to 20%.

WHY DO WE FOCUS ON NEPAL?

Nepal is challenged by poverty, inequality and natural disasters. Expectations that girls marry early and work to support their family prevent many from completing their schooling. This leaves girls without the protective skills to secure decent work, understand their rights and make informed decisions. Domestic violence intersects with economic hardship, compelling girls to take risky offers to leave their family and leaving them vulnerable to modern slavery. 

An estimated 171,000 people are living in modern slavery in Nepal, including in forced labour, forced marriage and forced sexual exploitation

Global Slavery Index, 2018

Despite the challenges, Nepali people are resilient, adaptive and innovative. Nepal has a dynamic youth population – about 20% of the population are 15-25 years of age. Investing in their futures is likely to lead to significant economic and social gains.
Our founders have been working to address these complex challenges in Nepal for over 15 years, and with our partner organisations for 10 years.