Empowering women guides to become entrepreneur

Empowering Women of Nepal (EWN) organized a Sustainability Training for 17  trekking guides under 3 with the objective of enhancing their awareness and commitment toward sustainable tourism. The training, held at the EWN Hall, was facilitated by Nikki Tye (Volunteer),  Lucky Karki Chhetri Founder and director of EWN & 3 Sisters Adventure Trekking and Rashmi Devi Sharma from EWN. Through a combination of theoretical lessons, group discussions, experience sharing, and a 20-question quiz, the participants gained a deeper understanding of sustainability principles and responsible guiding practices. Key topics included waste management, water conservation, plastic reduction, energy and carbon management, cultural sensitivity, biodiversity protection, and support for local economies. Guides were encouraged to apply the “Pack In, Pack Out” system, promote the use of refillable water bottles, support eco-friendly lodges, and educate trekkers about Leave No Trace principles. The session also addressed the importance of health and safety preparedness, with guides suggesting more frequent first aid refreshers and better access to safety equipment.

Through this training, EWN aimed to strengthen the guides’ capacity not only as responsible tourism professionals but also as advocates for sustainable mountain practices in their working areas. The program helped them understand how small, everyday actions like reducing waste, respecting local culture, and conserving natural resources contribute to a larger goal of protecting Nepal’s fragile mountain environment. Moreover, by fostering leadership and self-reliance, EWN encouraged the guides to think beyond employment and take steps toward becoming future entrepreneurs in the tourism sector. This initiative reflects EWN’s long-term vision of empowering individuals to lead by example, promote sustainability in their communities, and ensure that tourism development in Nepal remains both responsible and inclusive.