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 helps with logistically difficult activities: sales and distribution of jewellery; the purchasing of materials not available in Nepal; and additional fundraising. It is a sounding board and resource for ideas and its members spend regular time helping to build the organisation’s capacity. 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