Asha Nepal, a care and support-based organization dedicated to improving the lives of women and children affected by trafficking and abuse, successfully completed its Strategy Formulation Workshop on January 3, 2025, in Kathmandu. The workshop, facilitated by the esteemed Dr. R.C. Lamichhane, CEO of ERIPS, was a significant milestone in the organization’s mission to bring meaningful and sustainable change to vulnerable communities.
About Asha Nepal
Asha Nepal has been a beacon of hope for women and girls, particularly those who have been trafficked, abused, or are at high risk. Guided by years of experience and learning, the organization focuses on prevention, education, rehabilitation, healthcare, and advocacy. Its primary mission is to address the root causes of trafficking and abuse while empowering survivors to rebuild their lives with dignity and strength.
The Workshop: A Transformative Experience
The strategy formulation workshop brought together board members and senior-level staff to collaboratively shape the future of Asha Nepal. The process was grounded in Appreciative Inquiry (AI) and other strengths-based methodologies, ensuring a positive, inclusive, and forward-looking approach.
Appreciative Inquiry in Action
Dr. Lamichhane led the participants through an engaging and reflective process, emphasizing the following core AI phases:
- Discovery: Participants explored and celebrated Asha Nepal’s achievements, identifying core strengths and what makes the organization unique in its mission.
- Dream: Through collective envisioning, the team imagined a future where Asha Nepal stands as a pluralistic, vibrant, and impactful organization.
- Design: Concrete strategies were co-created to build on these strengths and turn the vision into reality.
- Destiny: Participants committed to actionable steps, ensuring sustainable progress and shared accountability.
This approach enabled the team to think creatively, build consensus, and prioritize initiatives that align with Asha Nepal’s values and goals.
A Key Outcome: Family Strengthening Program
One of the workshop’s pivotal outcomes was the identification of the Family Strengthening Program as the cornerstone of Asha Nepal’s strategy. This program aims to address the root causes of trafficking and abuse by fostering resilience and stability within families. It focuses on providing holistic support, including education, livelihood opportunities, and psychosocial care, to empower families to thrive.
Testimonials from Participants
“The strategy formulation workshop was an extraordinary experience for us all. Dr. R.C. Lamichhane’s facilitation was deeply insightful, encouraging us to look beyond challenges and focus on our strengths. The Appreciative Inquiry approach helped us envision a stronger, more inclusive Asha Nepal, and we now feel equipped with a clear roadmap for the future. This workshop has truly re-energized our commitment to our mission.” Smriti Khadka, Coordinator:
“This workshop was a transformative moment for Asha Nepal. Dr. Lamichhane’s expert guidance and the use of Appreciative Inquiry helped us uncover our strengths and dream of a vibrant future for our organization. The participatory approach brought unity and clarity to our vision. I am confident that the strategies we developed will lead us to greater impact and sustainability.” Rajendra Shakya, Chairperson
“I was particularly impressed by how the Appreciative Inquiry method fostered positivity and collaboration among the participants. It allowed us to focus on what is working and build upon it, which is so refreshing and empowering. Dr. Lamichhane’s ability to engage and inspire was remarkable. The strategies we crafted together will undoubtedly strengthen Asha Nepal’s operations and impact.” Kusum Pujara, Admin and Accounts Head
“This workshop was more than just a strategy session; it was a journey of reflection and growth. The Appreciative Inquiry approach taught us to celebrate our achievements and envision bold, new possibilities. Dr. Lamichhane’s facilitation was both inspiring and thought-provoking. I feel proud to be part of an organization that is so committed to making a difference.” Yesodha Ghimire, Senior Staff
Conclusion
The Strategy Formulation Workshop was a testament to Asha Nepal’s dedication to continuous growth and impactful service delivery. Through the thoughtful application of Appreciative Inquiry and strengths-based approaches, the organization has charted a clear and inspiring path forward.
With the Family Strengthening Program as its central strategy, Asha Nepal is poised to make even greater strides in addressing the complex issues of trafficking and abuse, fostering hope and resilience among the most vulnerable members of society.
