WOW Nepal

A group of women in colorful sarees on stage at the Women of the World event. Bright lights illuminate the scene, creating a joyful atmosphere.

Since 2017, WOW has celebrated and amplified the voices of women, girls and non-binary people in Nepal – bringing together creativity, activism and community across the country. From the bustling streets of Kathmandu to the ancient city of Janakpur and the birthplace of Buddha in Lumbini, WOW Nepal’s mission remains: to raise awareness of gender equality; provide platforms for under-heard voices; build capacity; and foster allies across society.

The first WOW Nepal took place in February 2017 at the Nepal Administrative Staff College in Lalitpur, followed by WOW Kathmandu in 2018. In December 2019 WOW moved to Janakpur in the south-east – in the heart of the Madhesh region – for a two-day festival across several venues, focusing on local issues and national change. 

Image gallery

  • A large group of people in colourful attire perform yoga exercises outdoors. They are in front of a historical building. The scene is vibrant and lively.
  • A group of people stand around candles arranged to spell "WOW" on the ground at night, creating a warm glow against the dark

Virtual editions in 2020 and 2021 brought panel discussions, performances, book readings and conversations into homes across Nepal, and to a global audience. WOW Nepal’s virtual format allowed participation from across the country, including rural and remote areas that are often excluded from large-scale events. One of its most distinctive features was the inclusion of personal storytelling from women in agriculture, young queer Nepalese voices, and youth leaders from regions including Lumbini and Bagmati. In April 2022, WOW returned as a hybrid festival at Lumbini Park, featuring workshops on financial independence, illustrated storytelling, theatre, performance, mentoring and more.

The seventh edition of WOW Nepal took place 23-24 November 2024 in Kathmandu at Nandi Keshwor Bagaincha (Naxal) and Shri Nandi Secondary School. The Festival featured talks, live music, film screenings, theatre performances, mentoring, an Under 10’s Feminist Corner, amazing exhibitions, workshops, and the joyous energy that WOW is known for. The Festival was free and open to everyone – because everyone deserves equality.

WOW Nepal has played a role in ongoing feminist cultural programming in the region and continues to influence how gender equity is approached through arts, education and policy. Its success is rooted in how communities can come together to challenge injustice and celebrate strength. Together, we’re creating spaces where ideas are shared, stories heard, and change begins.

Image gallery

  • Women in vibrant red and orange sarees perform a dance at night, balancing decorated pots with flames on their heads.
  • A group of six women play soccer with a blue ball on a sunny day. They smile, wearing casual clothes, with red and white banners in the background.

About the organisers

WOW Nepal is produced by British Council, the UK’s cultural relations organisation, alongside a local production team. The British Council builds connections, understanding and trust between people in the UK and other countries through arts and culture, education and the English language.

Find out more

Image gallery