Photography is as much a mirror of the author as it is a reflection of the external world. AHF Nepal and Dristi Nepal chose this powerful medium in an effort to encourage women affected by HIV, drug dependence and domestic violence to tell their stories and share their hopes and dreams as part of the Empowerment Through Photography project.
The project began on February 8, and is dedicated to the commemoration of International Women’s Day, which is traditionally celebrated on March 8. An exhibition showcasing some of the best photographs was opened in Kathmandu by AHF’s Senior Vice President Peter Reis on March 25. The organizers plan to compile the photographs into a calendar, which will be sold. The proceeds will go to toward helping the women achieve their goals, which range from starting a farm to becoming a cook, a businesswoman or a social worker, according to the project participants.