Kathmandu : Jaya Baral has been unanimously elected as the new president of the Women Tourism Entrepreneurs Network (WTEN), an organization dedicated to empowering women in Nepal’s tourism sector. The decision was made during the Network’s fourth general assembly held on Sunday, which also formed a nine-member executive committee.
Under Baral’s leadership, Sharmila Kafle has been elected vice president, Sushma Tamang as secretary, and Anupa Adhikari as treasurer. Sweety Manandhar has been chosen as joint treasurer, while Niru Adhikari, Sunita Gurung, Gita Sharma, and Laxmi Karki have been elected as executive members.
The unopposed election reflects strong consensus, unity, and shared commitment among WTEN’s members and leadership. Established in 2021 under the visionary leadership of tourism entrepreneur Nirmala Dhamala, WTEN has grown into a vibrant network of more than 100 active women entrepreneurs representing all segments of Nepal’s tourism industry.
Since its inception, the Network has focused on addressing skills gaps, financial literacy, and market access for women through initiatives such as tax and VAT training, capacity-building workshops, and mentorship programs. These efforts aim to promote self-reliance and leadership among women, enabling them to thrive in a competitive business environment.
Speaking after her election, President Baral said the Network’s primary goal is to support women in tourism by providing the tools, resources, and platforms necessary to strengthen economic independence and expand their businesses. WTEN’s vision aligns with global trends that recognize women-led enterprises as key drivers of sustainable tourism.
By addressing critical issues such as access to finance, regulatory compliance, and digital technology, the Network hopes to place women at the forefront of growth in Nepal’s hospitality and tourism sectors. With new leadership and an expanded focus, WTEN is poised to further enhance its contribution to the industry while advancing gender equality.
As Baral and her team begin their tenure, stakeholders are hopeful for innovative programs in the coming years that will foster entrepreneurship, resilience, and leadership among women entrepreneurs. Today, the Women Tourism Entrepreneurs Network represents a significant and growing segment of Nepal’s tourism workforce.
