The Federation of Woman Entrepreneurs Associations of Nepal (FWEAN) is an umbrella organisation for Women Entrepreneurs Association of Nepal (WEAN).

WEAN Multipurpose Co-operative is a not-for-profit organisation established in 1991 in Kathmandu, aimed at representing the collective efforts of women entrepreneurs and overcoming gender inequality in Nepal.

Their motto is “work together, win together”.

Many of these women come from rural villages and have been widowed, divorced, handicapped, abused, trafficked, or are treated as “untouchable caste” women. WEAN is dedicated to promoting women`s rights in a country where women are considered second class citizens. Nepal’s poverty, lack of education, political conditions and relatively high unemployment rates make it tough for Nepali people to start out in business.

WEAN is a woman producers’ marketing co-operative and supports women to come to the forefront of economic activity through entrepreneurship development especially in area of marketing, productivity and quality improvement. This support fosters a sense of independence and confidence in an otherwise marginalised population.

To help with family commitments, the women are able to take away ready-dyed materials in order to be able to work from home.

It has been marketing handicrafts and food products locally as well as exporting internationally.

Felt making is a traditional craft in Nepal which requires great skill. Our amazing Fair Trade felt bag with multi-coloured balls has been handmade by female artisans belonging to WEAN. By buying their crafts you are helping women in the developing world to start a new life.

Below you’ll see products made by Fair Trade artisans and producers at WEAN. Click on the images to discover more about each product.