In Nepali the word ‘kopila’ means ‘flower bud’, something delicate that needs nurturing and protecting until it becomes a flower. Kopila-Nepal is based in Pokhara with work in the surrounding hills. The organisation works with people from the Dalit and lower-caste communities, some of the most marginalised people groups in the world, with a particular focus upon single mothers and widows.

Traditional hierarchies and the discriminatory nature of the Hindu caste system in Nepal mean that women must often fight to be heard and challenge cultural norms. Kopila-Nepal, exists to eliminate social disparity and help women empower themselves. Through advocacy, education, livelihood programmes, counselling and Self Help Groups, Kopila-Nepal is active in a huge number of communities; equipping women and children with knowledge and skills to bring about lasting change.

WDR supports programmes costs of their Self Help Groups in which rural women with shared troubles, come together for peer support, training and economic empowerment. Training addresses gender-based violence and discrimination, health, education and income-generation skills. Members of SHGs contribute to a savings fund from which they can then take a loan, to help them start their own small business, such as beekeeping or goat-rearing. WDR also supports Kopila’s safe homes for women and girls who have suffered abuse and can no longer stay at home safely. Core staff costs are also supported.

Kopila is a known and trusted voice in Nepal, particularly on issues of equality and gender-based violence.
They reach over 50,000 beneficiaries.