Nita Bhandari
A Purposeful Return to Build a Future
At 25, Nita Bhandari left her hometown of Gauradaha, hoping that working abroad would open doors to a better life. Like many young Nepalese, she believed foreign employment was the key to security and success. But reality was harsher than she imagined, and after facing challenges that tested her persistence, Nita made the difficult choice to return home.
Back in Nepal, she spent a year feeling uncertain about her future. The thought of going abroad again lingered, but past hardships and financial strains made her hesitate. Deep inside, Nita yearned for a different path—one that kept her close to her roots, allowed her to serve her community, and helped her build a meaningful livelihood. That’s when she decided to take a bold step: start her own business at home while balancing her role as a homemaker.
Now, at 30, Nita proudly owns a boutique and tailoring enterprise that goes beyond income; it represents her identity, pride, and hope. The young woman who once looked outward for opportunity now believes deeply in building a strong local economy as the foundation for community and national growth.
Starting from scratch wasn’t easy. Financial limitations, sourcing materials, finding the right location, registering her business, setting up the workspace, and promoting her products all posed challenges. But driven by determination, Nita handled every step on her own and turned obstacles into lessons.
Her boutique offers an array of clothing—from traditional sarees, cholos, lehengas, and gowns to school uniforms and ready-made garments. Handmade clothing is her specialty. She recognizes the fashion sector as not only a creative space but also a platform for empowering herself and other women in her community.
Joining the Growth Entrepreneurship and Employment Promotion (GEEP) program proved transformative. Nita learned to manage finances better, refine her business strategies, and use digital tools to expand her reach and brand recognition.
Nita dreams of an entrepreneurial Nepal where everyone's creativity, skill, and effort are valued. She envisions a country where small beginnings lead to great accomplishments. Most of all, she hopes every Nepali can proudly say, “Ma rojhgari khojne haina, dine manchhe ho”—I don’t seek employment; I create it.
“I picture a country where small beginnings lead to great accomplishments. Primarily, I hope every Nepali can state with pride, ‘I don’t seek employment; I create it’.”