Women from Diverse Fields Honoured with ‘WOW Women Achievers Awards 2026’

Kathmandu, May 12: Women making significant contributions in different sectors were honoured with the ‘WOW Women Achievers Awards 2026’ at a special programme held in Kathmandu on Tuesday evening.

The awards, organised by WOW (World of Women) monthly magazine, recognised women and institutions for their achievements and contributions in social service, arts, sports, leadership and entrepreneurship.

Among the award recipients were social activist, writer and dignified menstruation campaigner Dr Radha Paudel under the Social Service and Activism category, artist Abhaya Subba Weise in Art, the National Blind Women’s Cricket Team in Sports, Superintendent of Police Basundhara Khadka in Leadership and entrepreneur Hajuri Bista in Entrepreneurship.

Deputy Speaker Rubi Kumari Thakur received the ‘Inspiring Woman of the Year’ title, while Gyanodaya Balbatika founder principal Indira Yakthumba was honoured with the ‘Lifetime Achievement Award’.

Addressing the event, 21-year-old teacher Sonam Bhuti Gurung from Upper Dolpa highlighted the hardships faced by people in the remote Himalayan district despite its natural beauty. She said many areas still lack access to education, development opportunities and basic facilities, adding that nearly 80 per cent of the population remains deprived of education. Gurung urged the government and development partners to prioritise Dolpa’s development with a sense of justice.

During a panel discussion, actress Rekha Sharma stressed the importance of women’s empowerment and the need for women to live with dignity and autonomy. She said women should have the freedom to pursue their dreams and careers without discrimination or social barriers.

Speaking briefly to RSS, Dr Paudel said it was a matter of pride to be recognised for her decades-long campaign for dignified menstruation.

Lawmaker and former Deputy Speaker Indira Rana Magar, Sabina Kafle, spouse of Kathmandu Metropolitan City Mayor Balendra Shah, Muskan Khatun, Dr Reeta Gurung and Agni Foundation President Susan Vaidya Shrestha were among those presenting the awards.