by Sr. Anthonia Soosaiappan, Opportunity Village Nepal, Nepal, (Province of Central East India Nepal)

On March 23, 2025, Opportunity Village Nepal (OVN) reached a significant milestone in its mission to empower vulnerable women, girls, and children with the inauguration of the Vocational Training Center in Pokhara, Nepal. This new initiative symbolizes hope, resilience, and the power of collective action in transforming lives.

Since its founding in 1998 by the Good Shepherd Sisters, Opportunity Village Nepal has remained steadfast in its mission to address the needs of women and children at risk of trafficking, exploitation, and poverty. Through education, health services, vocational training, and advocacy programs, OVN has provided countless individuals with opportunities to live with dignity and independence.

The Vocational Training Center marks a continuation of this vital work. This milestone reflects years of growth and partnership, notably supported by Good Shepherd International Foundation Nepal since 2018, which has strengthened OVN’s programs and expanded its impact.

The Vocational Training Center was made possible through the support of Un Village Sous Les Étoiles (Village Under the Stars), an international non-governmental organization based in France, and the generous involvement of individual donors and community partners. The inauguration event brought together 125 attendees, including these donors, as well as dignitaries, partners, social workers, and local supporters.

The center’s generous benefactors, Paul and Odile, unveiled its commemorative stone. Their contribution, made in loving memory of their son and daughter-in-law who lost their lives in the 2015 Kathmandu earthquake, reflects a deeply personal and meaningful commitment. Following this, Sr. Rachel and other local sisters officially inaugurated the training hall.

In her speech, the guest of honor, Deputy Mayor of Pokhara, Manju Devi Gurung, affirmed the city’s collaboration with OVN and emphasized that women and adolescent girls could access targeted loans to start their own businesses. Her words underscored the critical role this center will play in building stronger communities.

Sr. Precilla Noronha presented heartfelt thanks and a token of appreciation to Paul and Odile for their invaluable support. Their generosity has not only funded the renovation and operations of the center but also inspired hope for brighter futures.

The Vice President of OVN, Fr. Silas, presided over the program, emphasizing the importance of the center in empowering individuals in need. Mr. Govinda Bhattarai also expressed gratitude to the OVN team for their dedication and teamwork, further recognizing the collaborative spirit that made this dream a reality.

The Vision of the Vocational Training Center

This state-of-the-art center has been created to provide opportunities for individuals to attain skills that lead to economic independence. Led with a focus on empowering Nepali women, the center aims to train over 130 individuals annually, offering courses in various fields, such as:

• Computer Literacy – Enrolling 70 attendees per year, this program equips students with digital skills vital in today’s job market.

• Tailoring – Tailoring classes prepare 20 individuals annually to support themselves by producing custom apparel and garments.

• Beauty and Wellness Skills – Aspiring beauty professionals, 10 each year, will gain foundational skills to prepare for careers in the cosmetology industry.

Each graduate not only gains new skills but also learns values of empowerment and independence, enabling them to pave their path toward brighter and sustainable futures.

This center is not just a building; it is a symbol of hope for those who need it most. It propels our Good Shepherd Mission forward and reminds us of the extraordinary transformations that arise through shared vision and collective determination.

We express our heartfelt gratitude to all our supporters, partners, and benefactors for making this dream a reality. Together, we continue to advocate for the rights, well-being, and empowerment of vulnerable women and children in Nepal.

See more pictures of the event here and click the image below to watch a video.