Salita Devi Majhi

January 2026

Before joining the WAWCAS program, my life was only about survival. My husband worked as a daily laborer, and I did seasonal farm work, yet we struggled to provide food, school supplies, and basic household needs. We had no savings, no plan, and I felt powerless. I doubted my own abilities and never imagined I could lead change.

Joining WAWCAS transformed not just my economic situation but my entire outlook on life. Through regular training, group meetings, the residential workshop, and the husband-wife workshop, I learned to speak up, reflect, and plan. For the first time, my husband and I discussed goals together, and our home shifted from silent tension to shared responsibility.

Using Pocket Chart Analysis (PCA), Strengths-Weaknesses-Opportunities-Threats (SWOT) analysis, and economic ranking, I gained clarity about our financial reality, recognized my strengths and weaknesses, and learned how to turn challenges into opportunities. I discovered my own courage, resilience, and potential for leadership.

With support from WAWCAS, I started a pig farming business. What began with fear and uncertainty has grown into a reliable source of income. Today, I maintain records, reinvest in the business, and save from my own earnings. These savings are not just money—they represent dignity, security, and hope for my family.

The change is visible at home. My husband now respects my ideas and supports my work. My children see me as a confident, hardworking mother and role model. I have moved from surviving to making decisions, planning for the future, and building a better life.

I now carry a clear three-year plan: expand pig farming seasonally with additional goat farming to strengthen our savings and assets, and support other women to start their own journeys toward self-reliance.

WAWCAS gave me more than business skills. It reshaped my thinking, built my confidence, and gave me direction. I am not just surviving but also building a future.

My message to all women:
Your circumstances do not define you. With learning, courage, and support, you can transform your life. When a woman changes the way she sees herself, she changes the future of her family and community.

Salita Devi Majhi

Dear Readers,

I am honored to share the 16-month journey of Salita Devi—from a woman struggling to meet her family’s basic needs to an empowered woman with savings, confidence, and a hopeful future. Today, she is able to support her household and ensure her children are attending school.

I sincerely thank Salita for trusting me and sharing her struggles. Through continuous guidance, Issue Based Training (IBT), practical tools, and workshops, her transformation became possible. Witnessing her growth fills me with pride and reaffirms the purpose of the work we do.

I hope Salita’s journey inspires you.

Thanking you all.

With my personal regards,

Deepak Shah

December 2025

Namaste, Dear Readers,

I would like to share a learning from my journey of running a small business for the past 15 months with WAWCAS. Recently, I learned something new called “business clean-up.” When I first heard this term, I was confused. To me, clean-up meant cleaning our homes. I never imagined that a business also needs cleaning.

Deepak explained it in a very simple way. He said that business clean-up means carefully reviewing everything we have done so far before making plans for the next three years. It is a time to pause, look back, and learn.

The next day, during a business visit, I was asked to review my business over the past few months. Honestly, I felt nervous. I had never reviewed my business like this before. But with his gentle guidance, I slowly started to look at my sales, expenses, daily work, successes, and even my mistakes. At first, it felt confusing, but his questions helped me think clearly:

• How many pigs did you start with?
• How many do you have now?
• Were they healthy and vaccinated?
• What kind of feed did you use, and how much did it cost?
• Where did you sell them, and were you satisfied with the price?
• Did this business support your family?

As I answered, I began to see my journey clearly. I started with just two pigs and sold them directly in the market. The demand for pig meat was high. My pigs remained healthy, I used local feed, and my costs were low. Most importantly, the profit helped my family—improving our housing, ensuring food security, and supporting my children’s education.

This review was eye-opening. It helped me understand what worked well and what I need to improve. More than numbers, it gave me confidence, clarity, and courage to plan for the future. I realized that business clean-up is not only about checking records—it is about learning from our experience, making better decisions, and growing step by step.

In this group, I want to say to every woman running a small business: Please take time to review your work. Keep what helps you grow and gently let go of what does not. This small and simple step can bring big changes—not only in your business, but also in your life.

November 2025

Namaste to all my dear readers,

Today, I want to share a learning experience that truly changed my confidence and my business. After the completion of saving and repayment, today’s session started with the simple question:

“Do you all know your actual profit?”

At that moment, I realized the truth: Even though I was working hard on my pig farm, I did not really know how much profit I was making. I was mixing home expenses with business income, and nothing was written properly.

That question opened my eyes, and below are the most important lessons I learned.

(1)  Separate business money and household money

Before, I mixed everything. Now I keep them clearly separate:

• Income from the pig farm
• Feed expenses
• Household costs

This has brought huge clarity.

(2)  Write daily records

I now write down everything:

• Feed costs
• Medicine expenses
• Sales of pigs or piglets
• Any extra cost

Even a small entry helps me understand my business better.

(3)  Small losses matter

Earlier, I ignored small expenses.
Now I know that small losses become big losses if we don’t pay attention.

(4)  Planning makes a business stronger

I learned to plan properly:

• When to buy feed
• When to sell pigs
• How to save
• How to reinvest

After the training, I started practicing everything Deepak taught us. Today, before making any business decision, I think carefully and plan ahead. I keep clear records, and now I finally know my real profit.

I feel more confident, happy, and motivated than ever.

This Profit & Loss training gave me clarity, discipline, and control over my business. For the first time, I feel proud because I know exactly where my money goes and how much comes back as profit.

This training taught me that profit is not luck — it comes from the right records, right planning, and the right effort.

Thank you,

Salita Devi

October 2025

A Warm Namaste to All My Dear Readers,

Once again, I am here to share my beautiful experiences from this wonderful month of festivals.

It always feels good to see Deepak visiting our place so often. Every time he comes, he talks with care, asking about my business, family, and children. We also chat about agriculture, the festivals, and everyday life. He always asks about my health, how my children are doing, how I feel after the issue-based training, my relationship with my husband, and how society treats me now. And of course, he never forgets to ask about my business progress and the education of my children. His words and encouragement always make me feel stronger and happier.

Now, let me take you back to how I celebrated this festive month, full of joy, faith, and togetherness with Dashain, Tihar, and Chhath.

Dashain is one of the biggest and most loved festivals in the Terai region. It is celebrated a little differently here than in the hilly areas. We keep fasting and worship Goddess Durga with great faith. Families visit melas (fairs), enjoy rides, and eat delicious food together. The moments spent with family and friends during Dashain are full of laughter, blessings, and love memories that stay in the heart forever.

Tihar is another beautiful festival for us Hindus in the Terai region. Before it begins, everyone gets busy cleaning and washing the house, clothes, and surroundings to welcome Goddess Laxmi, the goddess of wealth and purity.

When the evening comes, our homes glow with diyas and colorful lights. The air smells of delicious food vegetable pakodas, mitai, and other festive dishes. We worship Goddess Laxmi by offering flowers, fruits, and money, which we keep safely for good luck. We make rangoli, light candles around the house, and children burst firecrackers with joy. The whole community shines with happiness, music, and laughter.

Finally comes Chhath, the most emotional and sacred festival for us. It is celebrated with deep faith and devotion. We women keep fast to thank Surya Dev (the Sun God) for giving us life, light, and energy.

From early morning, everyone starts cleaning the surroundings, decorating the ghats, and preparing prasad with love thekuwa, kheer, and puri. The sweet smell fills every home, and excitement grows as the sacred days come closer.

Chhath teaches us patience, purity, and gratitude. It reminds us that true devotion is shown through love, action, and sacrifice. Even when life feels hard, the rising sun gives us new hope, just like this festival brings new beginnings every year.

During all these festivals, our family came together laughing, dancing, and celebrating with joy. We bought new clothes, shared food, and enjoyed every moment. Seeing the bright smiles of my children and the happy faces around me filled my heart with peace and love.

Every house in our community was filled with music, light, and togetherness. Truly, this festive month was full of happiness, faith, and blessings, a time I will always remember with love and devotion.

This year, I feel very different than in other years because we celebrate more joyfully since I started my business. Every festival makes me so happy.

September 2025

Namaste and warm greetings to everyone,

Today, my heart is filled with joy and excitement as I share my journey with you. When I first started this business, the pig I bought was very small. At that time, I lacked confidence, but with proper care, guidance, and the constant encouragement from Deepak during every visit, I gradually learned how to take good care of it. From sanitation to food, medicine, and even preparing local nutritious feed, I poured my love and dedication into it.

Now, the moment has arrived—the pigs have grown big and healthy! I have already sold one pig and received a good profit, which filled me with happiness and hope. Another pig is now ready for sale, and with the Dashain festival approaching, I believe I will earn even more than before. Imagining this fills me with excitement and gratitude.

But my journey doesn’t stop there. With newfound confidence, I have also started goat farming and have built a shed for them. This has strengthened my sense of security and alleviated the financial struggles I once faced. Life feels so much lighter now.

Another blessing is the wonderful change in my husband. He has become more supportive, caring, and understanding—not just in business, but also in household responsibilities. His personal growth makes me feel loved and respected. Together, we share our responsibilities, dreams, and happiness.

Looking back, I can see many changes in myself as well. I am now more confident, independent, and hopeful. All these transformations in my life are possible because of WAWCAS. They have shown me the path, guided me with love, and believed in me even when I doubted myself.

From the bottom of my heart, I want to thank my family, relatives, community members, and the organization SLISHA, which runs the WAWCAS Program. Without your support, encouragement, and trust, this journey would not have been possible.

Today, I stand proud, filled with love, excitement, and gratitude—ready to dream even bigger for the future.

August 2025

Hello and Namaste Dear Readers

I hope you are all doing well. Here in the Terai region, the monsoon season has arrived, but sadly, the rains have not. Instead, the scorching sun continues to burn over us. Life in this heat is difficult, and every day brings new struggles.

One day, without any prior notice, Deepak quietly visited my home. At that moment, I was busy feeding the pigs. I greeted him with respect, and he began a warm conversation, first asking about my children and husband. I told him that my children are back in school since they have reopened, but my husband, unfortunately, has no work these days. He spends his time searching for opportunities.

Deepak then asked me deeply, “Why is your husband not working?” I replied with a heavy heart, “It is very hard to find work here, so he has decided to go abroad. He has already applied for a passport and is busy with that process.”

After that, he asked me about my paddy field. I told him the crop is growing, but this is the time when fertilizers like urea are required. Sadly, there is a shortage, and the price in the market is very high. This, too has become another burden for us farmers.

Deepak then asked to see my diary. As I handed it to him, he went through it carefully. He smiled and said, “Good, you have done well.” He asked how I managed to keep the records, and I replied with pride, “My children help me in writing this diary.” That simple moment filled my heart with happiness — because it showed how my children are learning and supporting me in my journey.

Soon after, the children from the Girls Project and the Child Group also came. Deepak greeted them warmly, and they replied, “We are good.  We are going to tuition classes, and it helps us a lot.” When Deepak asked about their plans, the children said with joy, “We are planning to do a rally on Children’s Day, and we will need your help.”

Listening to them, I remembered my own learnings. The tools like PCA (Pocket Chart Analysis) and SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) have truly helped me understand myself and my surroundings. And through IBT (Issue Based Training) topics — women’s rights, sanitation, children’s rights, conflict management, and more — I have gained confidence and willpower that I never had before.

Day by day, I feel myself growing stronger — not just financially, but socially and mentally as well. These months have changed my life in ways I cannot fully express. Sometimes I have so much to say, but words fall short.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you all for your continuous support and guidance. Thank you for standing beside me throughout this journey.

With love and gratitude,

Salita Devi

July 2025

Hello and Namaste to all my lovely readers,

This blog is about how I earn extra income besides running my small business. I come from an ultra-poor family and a Dalit community, and life has been a constant struggle since my childhood. In every step of life—education, food, dignity—I faced problems. But I never gave up because I want a better life for my children. I don’t want them to suffer the way I did, just to meet their basic needs. That dream keeps me going.

The heat of June and July : Paddy season and pain

The months of June and July are extremely hot in the Terai region. These months also signal the start of the paddy planting season—a chance for us to earn some money by working in others’ fields. However, this year, we did not receive timely rainfall. Due to the delay in the rain and  lack of water, paddy planting had been postponed. Deepak informed us that the Nepalese government has announced that eight districts in the Terai region are facing potential disasters. We need to be alert; listening to this news makes our hearts ache. How will we survive? However, some people who have pumps for watering of their land have started planting and are working there. As a result, we earn 600 rupees per day, but working in the sun, we feel we will also burn like bushes. With the heat of the sun, bushes are just burning, which is very stressful.

Family support

During these two difficult months, it’s also hard for my husband to find work. So to manage our family expenses, both of us work in the agricultural fields whenever we can. Thankfully, my children have a school holiday for one month. While I go out for daily wages, my children stay home and help take care of our pigs and the house.

My eldest daughter wakes up early in the morning, cooks food for everyone, and does household work. Her support makes my heart full. Every day, I leave home at 6 a.m. and return by 6 or 7 p.m., working alongside other women in the fields.

Sometimes, being with my women’s group gives me moments of joy—we talk, sing, laugh, and even dance while working. But deep inside, I sometimes feel sad when I remember my situation. In those quiet moments, I pray to God to give me the strength, confidence, and hope to keep fighting in life until my last breath.

In today’s world, life is becoming too expensive. Without money, survival feels impossible. Even vegetables, fruits, rice, oil, and other basic needs are so costly that it is hard for poor families like us to manage. Rich families may not feel it much, but we poor people feel the burden of every single rupee. Every day is a challenge. Every rupee we earn is from sweat, pain, and sacrifice.

Hope , education , and a better future

Apart from daily wages, I have also done paddy cultivation in a small rented land, hoping it will help us during food shortages.

One thing that brings me hope is SLISHA WAWCAS. They have started tuition classes for our children, and now I don’t have to worry as much about my children’s education. When I ask my kids about the classes, they always smile and say, “Ama,(mother) it’s good!”

Also, our pigs have grown big and healthy, and I hope to make a good profit when we sell them soon. That income will help us in many ways.

I want to say thank SLISHA WAWCAS and Deepak Sir for the support and care. You have given us something we never had before—hope. I feel proud and happy to be a part of the WAWCAS family.

And finally, thank you to all my dear readers for reading my blog. Your love and support give me strength to move forward with my head held high.

With gratitude

Salita Devi

June 2025

Namaste, Dear Reader,

This blog is unlike anything I’ve written before. It’s not just a story – it’s an emotion, a memory, an experience that changed me. It’s about a journey that began in Rautahat and led me to the peaceful hills of Dhulikhel… but more than that, it led me back to myself.

A Journey from Rautahat to Dhulikhel: A Life-Changing Workshop Experience

My first trip from the flat plains of Rautahat to the serene hills of Dhulikhel marked the start of an incredible journey filled with learning and bonding. Eighteen women, including me, set off with excitement for a residential workshop.

As we travelled through winding roads, we soaked in the breath-taking views of green hills and flowing rivers, singing and laughing together. Upon arrival at Dhulikhel, I was in awe of the beautiful resort surrounded by natureand with stunning mountain views. The warmth of our welcome and the comfort of our rooms felt like a dream.

After freshening up, we enjoyed afternoon snacks and began our training session in a vibrant hall. The trainers encouraged us to embrace a positive mindset focused on learning and collaboration. Instead of introducing ourselves, we introduced our partners, sharing names, businesses, and our perspectives on life—a wonderful way to foster connection and understanding.

Our trainer guided us to discuss our expectations from the workshop, leading to a set of rules for our two days together with women from Kathmandu, Lalitpur, and Rautahat. By the end of the first day, a list was compiled for those eager to share their transformative stories with WAWCAS, and the room buzzed with inspiration.

After sessions, we didn’t head straight to our rooms. Instead, we took photos, chatted, and formed new friendships. The evening featured a delicious dinner, dancing, and music under the stars, making us feel like we were celebrating rather than just learning.

The first day of the workshop was unforgettable, combining scenic travel, warm hospitality, meaningful learning, and joyful dancing. I’m truly grateful to be part of this journey with such inspiring women.

A Morning of New Beginnings – To Be Continued…

The day started beautifully with a peaceful breakfast in nature, lifting our spirits. We then gathered in the hall for another enriching training session, beginning with a warm welcome and a recap of the previous day’s discussions.

One of the highlights was hearing inspiring success stories from participants. I gathered my courage to share my journey, and it was moving to hear others’ experiences too.

Afterward, we split into groups for a creative activity to reflect on our lives before and after joining WAWCAS, focusing on personal, family, and economic changes. Our group chose to express this through drawing and painting, a process that took time but was profoundly meaningful, reflecting our growth and dreams.

Later, we presented our group work. While listening to other groups, I noted down important takeaways. I learned that:

• Unity brings success.
• The path might be different, the business might be different, but the goal remains the same.
• We all strive for self-dependence and future planning.
• A group should move forward with shared objectives.
• Knowledge is never-ending.
• Believing in ourselves is powerful.
• In a group, everyone is equal — we are the same.

We also played a team-building game called “Hand with Hand, We Together, Change It,” which helped us realize how deeply connected we are when we work as one.

This day brought so many insights that I promised to share everything I learned with my group and family. We discussed forming child groups, clubs, and collaborating with LNGOs, which opened up exciting future possibilities.

As the training concluded, we enjoyed each other’s company during a peaceful evening walk, sharing laughter and creating memories. Dinner with staff and participants from three districts turned into a joyful celebration filled with music. I danced freely, embracing the bond we’d built over just a few days.

The next morning came too soon, and after breakfast, we took group photos and said tearful goodbyes to our new friends. In just three days, we had formed deep connections, and I wished the training could last longer, knowing, however, that all good things must eventually end.

Hugging our friends tightly, exchanging phone numbers, and saying goodbye to our respected trainers was an emotional experience. As I sat in the car, ready to leave, my heart grew heavy, and tears welled up again. I was crying silently, feeling the weight of parting.

Deepak and Binod lifted my spirits with their stories and cheerful music during our journey. We visited the Dashainkali Temple, where we worshipped and captured memories. Upon returning home, I carried not just memories but a journey of emotions, learning, and friendship. I’m grateful to Deepak Sir for selecting me for this training, which was about personal growth rather than just business skills. I may not have brought home material gifts, but I returned with love, knowledge, and inspiration from amazing women running their own businesses, fuelling my motivation to succeed.

Sharing My Journey – Inspiring Hearts at Home and Groups

After returning from the workshop, I was eager to share my experience with my group. That evening, I recounted my journey—discussing the training sessions, inspiring stories from other women, and the supportive environment we enjoyed. I vividly described the fun activities, delicious food, and the beauty of the venue. The women listened intently, some expressing their desire to have participated. It was gratifying to see them inspired and hopeful about their own paths.

Later, I shared my experiences with my husband and family, detailing the travel, the amazing women I met, and the valuable lessons I learned. My husband’s supportive words touched me deeply; for the first time, I felt seen as an individual.

This journey made me realize that I am more than just a simple woman; I have a voice, my thoughts matter, my dreams are valid, and I am not alone.

Thank you, WAWCAS, for such a transformative program and for the unforgettable memories.

With warmest gratitude,

Salita Devi

May 2025

Namaste to all my dear readers,

I hope this message finds you well. I’m happy to share a little update from my side. My pig farming business is running smoothly, and I feel quite satisfied with the progress I’ve made so far.

Now, I’d like to talk about the Business Training we’ve been receiving.

Every month during our group meetings, Deepak checks in with us about our business status. Each member shares their experiences—our achievements, the challenges we face, and the lessons we’re learning. In our very first business training session, Deepak revisited the key topics we had covered during our 7-day training, including bookkeeping, business planning, and marketing. We even created a 5-year business plan, which gave us a clear vision for the future.

We were reminded of the importance of keeping detailed records of income and expenses. This helps us calculate whether our business is making a profit or loss by comparing the two. Deepak  also shared real examples of cash flow in different types of businesses like goat farming, chicken farming, and cattle farming. These examples made the concepts easier to understand.

One important topic we learned was how to manage perishable items, such as vegetables, fruits, and grocery items. These products must be sold in a timely manner to avoid waste and increase profits. It reminded us that being alert and organized plays a big role in business success.

Another very useful lesson was about advertising and promotion. We learned different ways to promote our businesses—through word-of-mouth, chart-paper notices, hoarding boards, and more. Deepak explained how businesses like grocery stores or eateries should ideally be located in high-traffic areas like marketplaces or along busy roads. He emphasized that cleanliness and hygiene in our business area leave a strong impression on customers and help bring in more visitors.

What makes this training even more effective is that Deepak visits our homes regularly to monitor our business progress. He personally guides us on how to properly record sales and purchases. He reminded us that running a business is not always easy. Sometimes we may face unexpected difficulties like animal sickness, deaths, or even natural disasters. But no matter the situation, we must stay focused and never give up.

He encouraged us to dream big—to see beyond where we are now. A key takeaway was the importance of tracking profit or loss by maintaining daily records, especially for business-related expenses. We must also keep track of people who owe us money (debtors), those we owe (creditors), and our cash in hand.

The most inspiring part of the training was learning to take full ownership of our roles and responsibilities. We should be clear about what needs to be done, when it should be done, where to go for help, and who to reach out to when facing challenges.

It has now been seven months since I started my pig farming journey. I’m planning to sell the grown pigs soon and use the profits to buy more baby pigs than before—so I can increase my earnings even further.

I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to Deepak sir and to Slisha/WAWCAS for providing us with such practical, meaningful business training. It has not only given me the tools to grow my business but has also built my confidence.

I’ve already started sharing the knowledge I gained with my family and applying it to improve how I run my business. Looking back, I feel proud of how far I’ve come. This training has taught me valuable lessons—that success doesn’t come overnight, but with patience, hard work, and good planning, it is absolutely possible.

I’ve realized that even small steps can lead to big changes. I am determined to continue growing my pig farming business and to keep learning along the way.

I hope my story inspires others to start something of their own and believe in their dreams.

Thank you once again to Deepak  and the entire Slisha/WAWCAS team for your constant support.
And thank you all for taking the time to read my story.

Salita

Namaste!

April 2025

Namaste to my dear readers,

This blog is about SWOT analysis, which stands for Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats. I first learned about it during a seven-day training programme led by our trainer, Deepak. With the help of his team, he explained SWOT analysis through a fun game called “Big Fish, Small Fish.”

In the WAWCAS Program, we do SWOT analysis three times a year (at the beginning, mid-year, and end) to track our progress. Strengths and Weaknesses come from within us, so we must increase our strengths and work with our weaknesses. On the other hand, Opportunities and Threats come from the outside world. We need to grab opportunities and overcome threats to grow.

Every woman has a story, and mine is about resilience and transformation.

Before joining WAWCAS, life was full of struggles. I faced financial difficulties, self-doubt, and endless responsibilities. I felt trapped, unable to break free. My dreams seemed far away, and the fear of failure held me back. But one decision changed my life—joining the WAWCAS Program.

Before WAWCAS : The Challenges I Faced

Like many women, I struggled to balance family and work. My days were spent doing household chores, taking care of my children, and worrying about money. I wanted to earn and support my family, but I had no confidence and no opportunities. I felt invisible, as if my dreams didn’t matter.

My SWOT Analysis : Understanding Myself

When I joined WAWCAS, I learned to analyse myself using SWOT. This self-reflection helped me take charge of my life.

Strengths (S)

• Resilience – I never gave up, no matter how hard life got.
• Multitasking – Managing my home and kids taught me how to handle many tasks at once.
• Empathy – I understood people’s emotions and struggles.
• Determination – I was ready to work hard and learn.
• Creativity – I found new ways to solve problems.
• Adaptability – I was open to changes and learning.

Weakness (W)

• Self-Doubt – I always questioned my abilities.
• Overthinking – I worried too much about what could go wrong.
• Limited Networking – I didn’t know the right people to guide me.
• Work-Life Balance – Managing work and family was tough.
• Fear of Failure – I was scared to take risks.
• Seeking Social Approval – I waited for others’ opinions before making decisions.

Opportunities (O)

• Education & Skills – Learning about finance and business.
• Entrepreneurship – The chance to start my own business.
• Strong Community – A group of women with similar dreams and struggles.
• Workplace Inclusion – Learning about leadership and gender equality.

Threats (T)

• Gender Bias – Society’s mindset about women’s roles.
• Workplace Challenges – Fear of unfair treatment.
• Safety Concerns – Issues related to security and personal safety.
• Family Expectations – Pressure to put family before personal growth.
• Financial Dependence – The struggle to become independent.
• Mental & Physical Health – Stress and work-life balance challenges.

After Joining WAWCAS : My Transformation

WAWCAS changed my life. Through training and mentorship, I gained confidence, financial independence, and leadership skills. I started a small pig farming business, something I never imagined before.

More than just learning, it was an emotional awakening. I met women who had felt the same fear and uncertainty but had transformed their lives. The trainers didn’t just teach business skills—they helped us believe in ourselves. They listened to our fears, cleared our doubts, and showed us that we were capable of much more.

At times, I still felt overwhelmed, but with WAWCAS by my side, I found strength I never knew I had. I learned how to manage money, make smart decisions, and plan for the future. The support from trainers and fellow women kept me going.

Today, I not only provide for my family, but I also inspire other women in my community to take charge of their lives.

The Impact of WAWCAS : How it Changed my Life

• Confidence & Leadership – I became stronger and more self-assured.
• Financial Independence – I now earn and manage my own money.
• Supportive Networks – I built connections with strong women.
• Breaking Barriers – I overcame fear and societal expectations.
• Work-Life Balance – I learned to manage family and work effectively.
• New Opportunities – I found chances I never knew existed.
• Inspiration for Others – I now help other women believe in themselves.

To the trainers and the WAWCAS team, thank you for believing in us even when we doubted ourselves. You have helped countless women like me break free from limitations and discover our true potential. You didn’t just teach us how to earn money—you taught us how to believe in ourselves. Because of you, I now stand strong, independent, and empowered.

Message from me to other women:

If you feel stuck, know that change is possible. Believe in yourself and take the first step. Look at your strengths, work on your weaknesses, grab opportunities, and prepare for challenges. Programmes like WAWCAS can guide you, but the real power to change is within you.

March 2025

Namaskar,

Dear readers, thank you for embracing my blog with so much love. This time, I am sharing something truly close to my heart – a festival that fills my soul with excitement, laughter, and warmth. Holi, the grand celebration of colors, is one of the biggest festivals in the Terai region of Nepal. Before diving into my cherished memories, let’s explore the rich history and deep significance of Holi.

The Legend Behind Holi

The roots of Holi lie in Hindu mythology, with one of the most well-known legends being the story of Prahlada and Holika. Prahlada, a devout follower of Lord Vishnu, was the son of the tyrant king Hiranyakashipu, who demanded to be worshipped as a god. Enraged by his son’s unwavering devotion, the king plotted to kill him. He enlisted his sister, Holika, who possessed a boon that made her immune to fire. She attempted to burn Prahlada alive by sitting with him in a blazing fire, but divine intervention turned the tables – Holika perished while Prahlada emerged unharmed. This victory of good over evil is commemorated through Holika Dahan, where bonfires are lit on the eve of Holi, symbolizing the destruction of negativity and the victory of righteousness.

Holi with Family: A Colors of Joy

Holi has always been a festival that brings immense joy and a sense of togetherness into my life. Growing up in the Terai, Holi was never just about smearing colors; it was about embracing traditions, relishing festive delicacies, and strengthening the bonds of love with family and friends.

The excitement begins days before the festival. We prepare natural colors, gather wood for the Holika Dahan, and plan a grand feast. The air fills with the aroma of fresh flowers and the sound of cheerful conversations, building anticipation for the big day. The sheer thrill of waiting reminds me of my childhood—those sleepless nights, eagerly counting the hours until sunrise, when the celebrations would begin.

On the morning of Holi, my home transforms into a hub of joy. My children and their friends chase each other with gulal (or abir, i.e. the colored powders) and pichkaris (water guns), turning the air into a dazzling swirl of colors. Laughter echoes through the streets as loved ones embrace, smearing hues of red, blue, yellow, and green on each other’s faces. The first splash of color on my face always fills my heart with a deep, indescribable warmth – a reminder of the beauty of life, relationships, and shared happiness.

There is pure magic in the mischievous smiles of my cousins plotting their next playful attack, in the elders blessing us with loving hands stained with colors, and in the heartfelt joy of seeing everyone united. Holi blurs the lines between generations and dissolves differences, leaving behind only happiness and affection.

The Feast: A Symphony of Flavors

No Holi in my home is complete without a lavish spread of traditional delicacies. With the help of my family, we prepare mouthwatering treats like gujiyas, malpuas, puris, dahi vadas, and pakoras. The kitchen is filled with the irresistible aroma of sweets and spices, while thandai, a refreshing festive drink, keeps us energized throughout the day.

As I take a bite of a freshly fried gujiya, its rich, sweet filling melts in my mouth, instantly transporting me back to my childhood. I recall watching my mother prepare these treats with the utmost care, her hands kneading the dough with love, passing down traditions from one generation to another. Beyond sweets, we also enjoy a special feast of mutton and cold drinks, adding a unique touch to our family’s Holi tradition.

A Festival of Love, Unity, and Dance

What makes Holi truly special for me is the way it strengthens relationships. Relatives travel from near and far, friends drop by unexpectedly, and the entire neighborhood becomes a celebration ground. We sing traditional folk songs, dance to the beats of the dhol (double-headed drum), and lose ourselves in the sheer joy of the moment.

The joyous shouts of children, the rhythmic beats of the drums, and the carefree dancing of elders create an atmosphere that can only be described as magical. Watching my loved ones with radiant faces, their eyes twinkling with happiness, fills me with overwhelming gratitude. It is in these moments that I truly understand the essence of life – being surrounded by those who matter most, celebrating love, laughter, and togetherness.

As the sun sets and the colors begin to fade, we gather around, reminiscing about the day’s best moments. The exhaustion from endless laughter and playful chases is nothing compared to the deep contentment in my heart. My children, still giggling, excitedly recount their favorite pranks and surprises of the day.

A Special Holi: A Milestone to Celebrate

This year, Holi was even more meaningful for me. As a business owner, I felt an added sense of pride and accomplishment. The colors of Holi seemed to symbolize the journey I have embarked on – full of challenges, victories, and endless hope. Celebrating my achievements with my loved ones made the festival all the more special, reinforcing my belief in perseverance and hard work.

As I wash away the colors, I carry the memories of Holi in my heart, already eagerly waiting for next year, when we will once again come together to celebrate in the most colorful, heartfelt, and joyous way possible.

February 2025

Thank you all for the love and support you’ve shown my blog so far. I hope you enjoy reading my 5th blog as much as the previous ones. Today, I want to share a special experience—my business visit from our WAWCAS trainer, Deepak.

After completing the seven-day training, Deepak came to my home, and this took me by surprise. But then I remembered his words from earlier: he had mentioned visiting each of our homes to see if we had started our businesses.

After some humble conversation, he asked me how I began my business. Talking about it was an emotional moment because starting my own business has been a truly remarkable achievement. My eyes welled up with tears as I recalled the difficult days of working as a daily wage laborer due to my family’s poor financial condition.

I am deeply grateful to the WAWCAS team for selecting me as a member and giving me a platform to challenge those difficult times. They showed me the right path to improve my financial situation and build something of my own.

Before the seven-day training, we had a few meetings, home visits by the trainer to encourage me to join WAWCAS, discussions with my family members, and conversations about choosing the right business. These moments laid the foundation for my decision to start a pig farming business, which fills me with immense joy today. I believe it will be a profitable venture compared to others.

Although I have some experience in pig farming, I know it will require significant time and dedication. I have already made progress by purchasing bamboo for the shed, completing the concrete construction, and buying two pigs. Thanks to my family’s help, we were able to start the business quickly. Deepak congratulated me on my startup and encouraged me to stay committed to it.

A few days later, Deepak returned with Sangeeta Shrestha for another visit. I greeted them warmly, and Deepak told me they had come to see the business.

As they asked questions about my business, I found myself reflecting on Deepak’s earlier words about why they started the WAWCAS Program—to uplift women like me. It filled me with pride when Sangeeta expressed that she liked the progress I had made. I wanted to speak more with her, but she had to continue visiting other members.

In closing, I want to express my deepest gratitude to the Program Director and the entire WAWCAS team for such an incredible program. A special thanks to the trainer for selecting me as a WAWCAS member. I hope this business changes my life for the better, and I look forward to the journey ahead.

Thank you all for reading.

January 2025

Finally, the waiting was over! With excitement and curiosity, I stepped into the 7-day training, wondering what it had in store for us. As the days unfolded, I realized that each day was meticulously planned with specific objectives delivered through engaging activities, games, and inspiring stories. The experience was so overwhelming and transformative that I found it hard to decide where to begin sharing.

From the very first day, I could sense the uniqueness of this training. I arrived on time, and to my delight, all the participants were present. Deepak and Binod, our trainers, were already there, welcoming us warmly with smiles and energy. They introduced themselves and broke the ice in a completely unique way. Instead of the usual name-and-address introductions, we were paired based on pictures of fruits, vegetables, and other objects.

We had to find our partners by matching our pictures and then learn about them—their names, addresses, business interests, and even the behaviors they liked or disliked. To make it even more fun, we were asked to explain all this by connecting it to the meaning of our pictures. This innovative method allowed us to introduce our partners, not ourselves. It was such a refreshing and meaningful way to bond, and by the end of this activity, we had already built strong connections and good relationships with each other.

The training was packed with learning opportunities. We engaged in group activities that boosted our confidence and expanded our ideas. Writing daily reports and evaluations was another effective tool, helping us to reflect on and reinforce what we had learned.

The trainers’ use of stories and games was remarkable. These weren’t just ordinary games—they were cleverly designed to convey profound lessons in an enjoyable way. Among the many games we played, my favorite was the “Color Touching” game. It taught us that the solutions we seek are often right around us or even within us; we just need to recognize and utilize them.

The subjects we covered were incredibly practical and applicable to everyday life. We learned about:

• Savings and loans
• Leadership and group dynamics
• Effective meetings
• Time management
• Market and business management
• SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats)
• PCA (Pocket Chart Analysis)
• Interest calculation
• Creating a business plan

Each topic had a direct impact on my perspective. For example, before learning about time management, I often wasted time on unproductive activities. Now, I understand the importance of valuing time and utilizing it effectively, especially in business. The SWOT analysis was another eye-opener—it helped me identify my strengths and weaknesses, seize opportunities, and address threats in a structured way.

By the end of the training, I had even created a 5-year dream plan for my business, something I had never imagined doing before.

On the last day, we were joined by the WAWCAS Rautahat team and the Ward Chairperson of Gujara Municipality-01, Mr. Raajeet Chaudhary. Their motivational stories and practical examples were incredibly inspiring. With their support and the guidance of our group chairperson, we received seed money to start our businesses. Receiving this financial support filled us with hope and determination. We joined hands, committing to use the seed money responsibly and to follow the business plans we had created.

These 7 days were truly life-changing. The training taught me lessons I will carry with me forever. It was more than just acquiring knowledge—it was about transforming mindsets, building confidence, and igniting dreams.

I am deeply grateful to WAWCAS and the entire team for providing us with such a meaningful experience. I promise to apply everything I’ve learned, dedicate myself to my business, and make my dream of becoming a successful businesswoman a reality.

Today was another inspiring day at the WAWCAS program meeting. As usual, I completed my household chores a bit earlier to ensure I reached the designated meeting spot on time, along with the other women. Shortly after, our trainers, Deepak and Binod, arrived and greeted us warmly.

While waiting for everyone to gather, Deepak casually asked a few women, “How have your days been going? Is the training proving useful and effective for you?” This small conversation created a friendly atmosphere, making us feel heard and valued. Once all the participants arrived, Deepak greeted us again and commenced the session by reviewing the highlights of the previous meeting. He emphasized that the purpose of today’s gathering was to analyze our social situations.

At first, the term social situational analysis sounded unfamiliar, leaving many of us confused about its significance. Both trainers patiently addressed our doubts, dispelling the negative thoughts that had surfaced. They explained that this analysis plays a vital role in identifying and addressing challenges such as gender and caste discrimination, socio-economic struggles, and instances of physical and emotional maltreatment targeting women and children. It also encompasses issues like poor sanitation and resource mismanagement in our localities.

Deepak had meticulously prepared questions on five key topics of Social Situational Analysis:

1. Women’s Rights and Violence
2. Identifying Local Resources
3. Market Management
4. Cleanliness and Disease Prevention
5. Children’s Rights and Development

He encouraged us to participate without hesitation or fear of judgment from others. He assured us that our answers would remain confidential, fostering a safe space for open discussion. As an example, he prompted us to consider practical issues, such as whether we had registered our children’s births or whether our husbands and children contributed to household chores.

Women’s Rights and Violence

The first topic uncovered numerous challenges faced by women in our homes and communities, including:

• Lack of knowledge about women’s rights and violence.
• Limited involvement of women in business and financial transactions.
• Absence of property ownership by women.
• Instances of scolding and physical abuse by husbands.
• Discrimination based on caste and gender.
• Lack of prenatal checkups during pregnancy.
• Women being unidentified by their own names within their communities.

Identifying Local Resources

Next, we discussed the hurdles in accessing local resources:

• Limited awareness of available resources.
• Delayed access to medicines from healthcare providers.
• Irregular classes in schools.
• Delayed distribution of seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides by local governance.

Market Management

While market-related challenges were fewer, some women highlighted issues like the long distance to markets and veterinary services.

Cleanliness and Disease Prevention

This topic revealed problems affecting personal and community health:

• Poor personal hygiene and dirty clothing for women and children.
• Unclean surroundings, including water taps and kitchens.
• Lack of awareness about HIV/AIDS.

Children’s Rights and Development

Under this topic, we identified pressing issues:

• Many children’s births remain unregistered.
• Irregular school attendance.
• Gender-based educational disparities, with boys attending private schools and girls sent to government schools.
• Lack of involvement in child groups or clubs.
• Insufficient knowledge about child malnutrition and balanced diets.
• Cooking meals without considering children’s preferences.
• Scolding, beating, and forcing children to work as laborers.

After collecting these issues, we moved on to creating change indicators—prioritizing problems and setting timelines to address them effectively.

Addressing Violence

A significant part of the discussion focused on the social, mental, physical, and economic violence experienced by women, children, and even men. Alcohol abuse by men emerged as a primary cause of such violence. Initially, many women were hesitant to share their problems, but the trainers’ efforts to foster a friendly environment encouraged us to open up.

Deepak assured us that these concerns would be further addressed in IBT (Intensive Business Training).

A Promise for Change

Today’s meeting was eye-opening. I realized the depth of the issues we face daily but often accept in silence. I made a promise, alongside my fellow women, to shed our shyness and hesitation. Together, we will raise our voices against societal problems, inspiring other women to do the same.

I am deeply grateful to our trainers and the WAWCAS program for organizing such a transformative program.

November 2024

Deepak, our trainer, informed us that today’s meeting would be very different from the previous ones and was crucial for understanding our standing within the community. He emphasized that this knowledge was essential for him to effectively advance the program. Motivated by his words, I completed my household chores, sent my children to school, and made sure to inform all participants to arrive at the meeting venue ahead of the scheduled time. I wanted to ensure everything was ready for Deepak to begin on time.

Shortly after, Deepak arrived at the meeting venue with another trainer. They greeted us warmly and started the session by reviewing what we had learned and achieved in our previous meeting. It felt great to revisit our progress together.

After the review, Deepak introduced the concept of Well-Being Ranking or Economic Status Ranking (ESR) for the day. He asked us what we thought it meant. Although we had no prior knowledge of it, we shared our thoughts. He patiently listened and jotted them down on newsprint. When we admitted we were unsure about the exact meaning, he explained it to us.

He told us that well-being ranking is a way to classify our economic status into four categories: ultra-poor, poor, medium-poor, and not-poor. To help us understand, he asked us to define what each of these terms might mean. It was challenging at first, but after some discussion, we managed to describe indicators for each category. For instance:

• People without land, who can’t afford medical treatment, suffer food shortages and have no stable income, are considered poor.
• Those with land, a good economic condition, and the ability to send their children to private schools are seen as not poor.

Deepak then explained how the Government of Nepal defines poverty, breaking it down further:

• Ultra-poor: Those who can only produce 0–3 months’ worth of food from their agricultural land and must rely on daily labor for survival.
• Poor: Those who can produce food for 4–6 months and must work for the rest to make ends meet.
• Medium poor: Those who produce food for 7–9 months but still need additional income for the rest of the year.
• Not poor/rich: Those who can sustain themselves year-round solely from their agricultural produce.

He drew a table with four columns, listing these categories and their indicators. Then, using meta cards with our names already written on them, he asked each of us to place our card in the category where we believed we belonged.

When my name was called, I felt nervous. What would others think? What if I placed my card incorrectly? I took a deep breath, gathered my courage, and pasted my name under the ultra-poor category. Deepak then asked the group if they agreed with my placement. Everyone nodded, acknowledging that it matched my situation—no land for farming, struggling to meet basic needs, and unable to afford private schooling for my children.

One by one, all the women placed their names in the categories they felt fit their circumstances. By the end of the exercise, Deepak announced that 31 women, including me, had been selected for the WAWCAS program.

After the ranking activity, Deepak introduced us to the concept of a Social Map. He explained that creating a social map of our community would help locate the homes of WAWCAS members easily. Many of us were curious why this was necessary, and he explained that it would help us stay connected and support each other.

Although social maps are typically made using locally available materials, we didn’t have enough resources in the community. Thankfully, Deepak had brought materials like markers, pencils, newsletters, and colors. The activity was so engaging and enjoyable that we had fun finding and marking our houses.

That day’s WAWCAS meeting was an incredible experience—both educational and entertaining. It gave us a clearer understanding of our economic status and our place in the community. For me, it was a turning point. I now know I fall into the ultra-poor category, but I have made a promise to myself and to Deepak: I will work hard to move from ultra-poor to not poor in the coming years.

Thank you, Slisha and the WAWCAS program, for bringing such a meaningful initiative to our community. It has given us hope and a vision for a better future.

October 2024

Namaste! My name is Salita Devi Majhi, and I’m a 31-year-old woman from Purni Manaharwa, Ward No. 1, Gujara Municipality. I belong to an ultra-poor Dalit family, and we don’t own land to live on. I live with my husband, four children, brother-in-law, and mother-in-law. My husband works as a laborer, but since it’s hard to find work, our family often struggles to make ends meet. I also work as a seasonal laborer in the agricultural fields to help support my family.

Being from a low-caste and poor background, I’ve faced many difficulties since childhood, and I didn’t get a chance to receive an education. But as a mother, I dream of giving my children the education they deserve, so they don’t have to face the same hardships I’ve experienced.

One day, while working in the fields, I overheard a conversation about a program called WAWCAS. I was too tired at the time to pay attention, but later, Gagdev Majhi approached me and told me that an organization named Slisha was coming to help our community, and there would be a meeting on August 31, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. Curious, I started asking my friends, and we were all ready to attend.

On the meeting day, 34 of us from the village gathered, and four representatives from Slisha came to introduce the WAWCAS program. At first, I was hesitant, thinking it might be another finance institute or cooperative, as we’ve heard so many negative stories about those. But I decided to attend the next Information Sharing Meeting (ISM) on September 2, 2024, to learn more.

At the second meeting, they explained everything clearly, from how members are selected to the various trainings such as, livestock training, the seven-day training, Issue Based Training (IBT) and Business trainings, child groups, and the work with LNGOs. I was so impressed! It completely changed my perspective of the program. I realized that this initiative was truly meant to help people like me.

It was a dream come true to be a part of something so impactful, and I felt deeply grateful to Slisha for bringing such a valuable program to our village. I cannot express how happy and hopeful I am now, knowing that there is real support for people like us.

Dear Readers,

Namaskar,

I am Deepak Shah, and having grown up in Slisha’s home, I feel like I am working in my own home. After completing three months of training in Kathmandu and working closely with senior LPLs, I am filled with happiness and gratitude.

I am currently writing the story of Salita Devi, capturing the ups and downs of her journey. I am confident that I will learn a great deal during this process, and I hope you will enjoy reading her story.

Warm regards,
Deepak Shah
LPL, Rautahat