Our Story
Strength in adversity
Shakti Milan Samaj (SMS) was born from the courage, pain, and resilience of three women who were trafficked, rescued, and living with HIV. In 1996, in the heart of Kathmandu, they came together not just as survivors, but as changemakers determined to rewrite the story for women like themselves. They had faced the harshest realities: exploitation, stigma, and rejection from both society and their own families. But instead of succumbing to silence, they chose solidarity.
What started as a small, informal support group has now grown into a powerful, apolitical, non-profit organization led by and for women living with HIV/AIDS, survivors of trafficking, and victims of gender-based violence. Our roots lie in lived experience and this remains our strength. We know what it means to be denied dignity, safety, and care, which is why we fight every day to ensure others do not have to walk the same path alone.
Today, SMS stands as a national voice advocating for the rights, health, and empowerment of the most marginalized women and children in Nepal. From providing essential healthcare and psychosocial support, to rescuing trafficked women and advocating for systemic change, our journey continues driven by empathy, resilience, and an unshakable commitment to justice. Our story is one of survival—but more importantly, it is one of transformation.
Our Philosophy
SMS's Vision
A compassionate and equitable society where women and children living with HIV/AIDS and survivors of trafficking live with dignity, equality and opportunity.
SMS's Mission
Ensure the protection and promotion of the rights and well being of women and children living with HIV/AIDS and survivors of human trafficking by facilitating access to comprehensive healthcare and essential services, advocating for equitable policies, and fostering inclusive and empowering environment through strategic collaboration with diverse stakeholders; all through the lens of intersectionality.
Goal
Establish a just and equitable society where women and children living with HIV/AIDS and survivors of human trafficking fully enjoy their rights, have access to healthcare and essential services and become empowered self-advocates,lead lives free from stigma and discrimination.
Objectives
- Increased access to health care and essential services to ensure mental and physical well-being.
- Improve economic independence and self-reliance of beneficiaries through skill development and livelihood opportunities.
- Strengthen leadership and self-advocacy skills among beneficiaries through peer support networks.
- Ensure organizational sustainability through strengthening overall capacity and external partnerships.
- Increased awareness of human trafficking and HIV/AIDS related issues through targeted advocacy strategies and collaboration with diverse stakeholders.
"THE ORGANIZATION FORMED, GOVERNED, LED AND DEFINED BY WOMEN LIVING WITH HIV"