
Bimala Devi Bhatta holds garlic grown by members of her community’s women’s group. Image: Elizabeth Stevens/Oxfam
They trained us in disaster management and helped us develop as leaders.”
Bimala Devi Bhatta of Gaudi, Nepal
The Community Builder: Bimala’s Story
Bimala is one of many women on the frontline of the climate crisis in her community of Gaudi, Nepal.
A leader in the community
“NEEDS taught us to go to our ward office and ask for what we needed. They also trained us in disaster management and helped us develop as leaders.”
Bimala Devi Bhatta of Gaudi, Nepal
Women celebrate the success of their garlic farming project. Image: Elizabeth Stevens/Oxfam

Women celebrate the success of their garlic farming project. Oxfam and partner NEEDS provided technical assistance for the project and supported the women’s group with trainings. [L to R: Hasha Devi, Juna Devi Rokaya, Bimala Devi Bhatta]
“When we need water there is none, At other times, it comes and takes everything away. It might flood at any time, but here we are talking and smiling, leaving behind our fear by being together.”
Maya Devi Sunar of Kutiya Kabar, Nepal
Kaushila Sunar’s work with a women’s empowerment group in her village has helped her become a confident public speaker. Image: Elizabeth Stevens/Oxfam
Kaushila Sunar’s work with a women’s empowerment group in her village has helped her become a confident public speaker who is active in her community. With trainings and technical support from Oxfam and NEEDS, the women’s group, and disaster management committee that she leads have successfully reduced disaster risks.