How Study Circles are changing the lives of women in Nepal – and inspiring others.

Case Story: The Resilient Journey of Shreya Shrestha

Shreya Shrestha, a skilled tailoring master and home-based worker, endured years of domestic violence and hardship. Despite early marriage, limited education, and repeated abuse, she pursued tailoring training, became a certified trainer, and fought to rebuild her life.

Her turning point came when she connected with CLASS Nepal. Through Study Circles, she gained knowledge on labour rights, gender-based violence (GBV), workplace harassment, and broader issues like climate change. This platform not only strengthened her confidence but also gave her the courage to confront abuse, file a court case, and choose to live freely.

Shreya’s active role as a Study Circle facilitator has empowered her to educate union members and fellow home-based workers, transforming her personal resilience into collective strength. Even after moving abroad for work, she remains committed to continuing Study Circles in her workplace, proving that empowerment through skills and solidarity can transcend borders.

Her journey shows how CLASS Nepal and Study Circles help women turn pain into power, building livelihoods, claiming rights, and inspiring others to break free from violence.

Case Story: Laxmi Bhatta – Courage through Skill and Determination

Laxmi Bhatta, a dedicated and skilled home-based stitching worker, once lived a very different life. Holding a Bachelor’s degree, she previously worked as a dance teacher, earning a respectable income and enjoying the creative freedom her job offered.

However, in 2013, her life took a turn after the birth of her child. Unable to continue her work due to caregiving responsibilities, she stayed at home, gradually becoming financially dependent. During this period, Laxmi faced severe domestic violence and emotional abuse from her husband and in-laws, who continually pressured her for dowry. She bore the pain in silence, unable to share her struggles with her parents.

The loss of financial independence made her realize how crucial it is for women to have their own skills and income. During the COVID-19 lockdown in 2020, she took a bold step and enrolled in a free stitching training programe organised by a local NGO. With determination and a single sewing machine, she began stitching clothes from home, earning NPR 4,000–5,000 per month.

Finding solidarity

In 2021, her situation worsened when her in-laws abandoned her. With no financial or emotional support from her husband, she was forced to live in a rented room with her child. Despite the immense hardships, Laxmi continued her stitching work, which became her only source of income and survival. She was later connected to CLASS Nepal for training and began participating in Study Circles. This involvement became a turning point in her journey.

For Laxmi, joining the Study Circle was not only about learning new skills but also about regaining confidence, rebuilding her identity, and finding solidarity with other workers who shared similar struggles. Through these sessions, she gained knowledge on labour rights, gender equality, and strategies to address workplace harassment – tools that have empowered her to speak up and take leadership roles.

By becoming a Study Circle facilitator, Laxmi transformed from a participant into a leader who educates and motivates others. She now plays a vital role in raising awareness about gender-based violence (GBV) and workplace harassment, helping fellow workers recognise their rights and collectively demand safer, fairer working conditions. Her lived experience makes her advocacy authentic and relatable, strengthening the union’s credibility and outreach within the community.

Inspiring other women

Today, Laxmi is not only securing her own livelihood but also contributing to the broader movement for workers’ rights. Her journey demonstrates how empowering one woman through training and union participation can ripple outward – building stronger communities, more resilient unions, and a culture of solidarity against exploitation and violence.

Today, Laxmi works tirelessly to support her child and dreams of establishing her own stitching shop as well as supporting her union and community. With limited resources but unbreakable spirit, she is actively expanding her work and building a secure life for herself and her child.

Laxmi’s story is one of resilience, strength, and the transformative power of skills development. With a little support, she hopes to turn her hard-earned skills into a sustainable livelihood and inspire other women in similar situations.

• Are you or your organisation interested in forming your own Study Circles? Send an email to secretariat@ifwea.org