our history
We make a lifeby what wegive
Pioneering Awareness and Reducing Stigma
In 2003, on World AIDS Day, Mr. Bijaya Shrestha, a peer educator with HIV, publicly disclosed his status, symbolizing HSWO’s dedication to reducing stigma. This landmark moment was further supported by a national campaign from the NCASC featuring renowned artists Madan Krishna Shrestha and Hari Bansa Acharya. Through awareness initiatives like street dramas, rallies, and community workshops, HSWO built strong ties with local health offices, receiving accolades for its impactful work. Over the years, the organization received recognition from NCASC, including certificates of appreciation for managing rallies in Kathmandu from 2003 to 2005, fostering a community more open and informed about HIV/AIDS.
Empowering Communities Through Economic Support
HSWO has also been deeply committed to supporting those affected by TB and HIV through economic empowerment initiatives. By distributing seed funds and providing vocational training, the organization has helped individuals start small businesses, supporting them in their journey to self-sufficiency and breaking down social stigmas. These efforts have enabled participants to contribute to their communities, send their children to school, and secure their livelihoods, demonstrating the powerful change possible when marginalized groups are given the tools to thrive. Vocational programs, such as candle-making and doll production, have reached hundreds, showing the lasting impact of skills training in helping people build dignified lives.
Advocacy and Lasting Community Impact
Furthering its advocacy, HSWO has led campaigns to influence policymakers, resulting in greater government support for TB/HIV initiatives. Through street dramas, radio broadcasts, and peer-led workshops, HSWO has continued raising awareness across hard-to-reach communities. Its programs have mobilized peer educators, many of whom carry on HIV prevention work independently, and developed innovative tools like the PASA game for spreading HIV/AIDS knowledge. HSWO’s legacy is one of empowering vulnerable groups to not only sustain themselves but also inspire change in their communities.
Promoting Clean Energy and Sustainable Livelihoods
In collaboration with the Small Grants Programme (SGP) of UNDP, HSWO launched the “Promoting Clean Energy Technologies as a Livelihood Option for People Living with HIV/AIDS (PLHA)” initiative in Kathmandu and Dhanusha districts. This program empowers PLHA by providing them with income-generating opportunities in briquette production and marketing, promoting clean energy and environmental sustainability. Key activities include demonstrating bio-latrines and compost-making at Gangabu Bus Park, installing a bio-latrine plant at Bhaktapur Hospital, and building the environmental capacity of local groups and Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) for lasting community awareness
