The story of the Jhigu Palaa Society began in the aftermath of the devastating 2015 Nepal earthquakes. What started as an immediate grassroots response to provide temporary shelter to the victims quickly evolved into a long-term mission. While the initial disaster relief has ended, the economic journey for low-income families and rural schools in the Kathmandu Valley continues every single day.
In the Newari language, “Jhigu Palaa” translates to “Our Steps.” This name forms the core of our philosophy. We believe that true sustainable development cannot be forced from the outside. Instead, we listen directly to local Nepalese women leaders, community cooperatives, and educators, providing them with the exact funding and tools they need to take their next collective steps toward independence.
Managed entirely by dedicated volunteers in British Columbia and in Nepal, we ensure that your support goes exactly where it belongs. Explore the structural timeline below to see how your direct donations, bottle returns, and local fundraisers have fueled real, lasting transformations across Nepal.
Sewing & Tailoring Cooperatives: Providing sewing machines to women across Nepal to launch home-based tailoring businesses.
Yogurt-Making Collective in Bhaktapur: Supporting local women in establishing a traditional curd and yogurt production enterprise.
Masala-Crafting Enterprises: Funding small-scale spice processing tools for women entrepreneurs.
Tea Shop Start-Ups: Providing furniture, tea stalls, and basic equipment to help women open neighborhood shops.
Entrepreneurship & Skill Training: Delivering practical business, management, and leadership workshops tailored to local women leaders.