From Quiet Injustice to National Impact: Darshana Shrestha’s Mission to Redefine Women’s Economic Power

Darshana Shrestha, President, Federation of Women Entrepreneurs’ Associations of Nepal

Darshana Shrestha describes herself as a proud Nepali with a bold vision. However, her journey to successful entrepreneurship was far from simple. Trained as a sociologist, she began her career in the development sector, working closely with rural women across the country. What transformed her perspective was not research, but experience. While staying in the homes of the women she studied, she witnessed a reality no report could fully capture. They worked tirelessly from before dawn until late at night, yet earned nothing. Their labour was simply seen as duty. This quiet injustice became her turning point. She left a promising career to start her own business, not just for personal gain, but to integrate women into the economic value chain and ensure their work was recognised and rewarded. What began as a small enterprise soon grew into a larger mission. Realising that impact at a small scale was not enough, she set out to reach women across Nepal.

This vision led her to the Federation of Women Entrepreneurs’ Associations of Nepal (FWEAN) where she now serves as president. At the core of her leadership is a simple belief: economic independence is the foundation of all other freedoms for women. For Shrestha, leadership is not a title but a daily commitment to self-improvement while uplifting others. In this edition of Business 360, she shares her leadership journey.

How would you describe yourself as a leader?

When people talk about leadership, they often think of grand ideas. For me, it begins with who I am today, constantly evolving into a better version of myself. That mindset guides my work, my family life and my daily actions.

I do not aspire to simply hold the title of a leader. What brought me to this role is a commitment to growth, learning from mistakes and improving continuously. Anyone can be a leader, regardless of their field or platform. A true leader supports those who come after them and grows alongside them. For me, leadership is simple: keep moving forward.

What is leadership to you?

Leadership is about understanding the context you are in. My leadership at work differs from my leadership at home where I am also a mother, daughter and woman. It is shaped by situation but wherever it is expressed, it must inspire and motivate.

Is leadership inborn or acquired?

It is both. Every individual has innate traits, you can see it even in children. But refinement comes through experience, observation and learning. I was always expressive and full of ideas as a child but that alone was not enough. Growth over time shaped those qualities into leadership.

If everything you built disappeared tomorrow, what would you do differently?

Nothing is permanent and that does not frighten me. What truly remains is your mindset.

If everything disappeared, I would return to my business and my family. I would not lead differently because I have never led out of fear. I lead with commitment to the present. When circumstances change, you simply move forward and open the next door. That is not failure, it is leadership.

Are you empowering women or reforming the system?

Resilience is important, but my focus is on strengthening systems. A strong system reduces disruption and prepares people to handle challenges.

At the same time, resilience matters when things go wrong, and they will. Women are often expected to be resilient without recognition. That must change. With the right systems in place, women can stand strong without being taken for granted.

What are you safeguarding for women entrepreneurs?

I believe in meaningful work, not visible applause. My focus is on strengthening the organisation and its foundation.

I am working with two priorities:

•    Strengthening existing structures rather than creating new ones
•    Expanding reach through deeper collaboration, partnerships and digital growth

The results may not be visible immediately but over time, they will speak for themselves.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Acceptance.

We tend to react quickly and judge situations without reflection. I once saw acceptance as weakness, but it is actually strength. You cannot control others, but you can control how you respond. Acceptance brings maturity and clarity.

Who influenced your leadership most?

My parents and grandfather shaped who I am. Their values remain central to my life.

Beyond that, I continue to learn from everyone from younger generations to peers. I joined Toastmasters at 50 because I believe growth never stops. Leadership is about continuous learning, observation and reflection.

Does representing women create pressure?

It can create pressure but I see it as trust rather than burden. That trust strengthens me.

Leadership is not about grand gestures. It is about small, consistent actions, acknowledging people, listening and showing appreciation. These small acts create meaningful impact.

When should a leader step down?

A leader should focus on creating future leaders. When your team is capable and confident, stepping aside becomes easy.

True leadership is not about holding power but about empowering others, even those who may surpass you. That is not a threat; it is an achievement.

What narrative about women would you change?

Women are equally capable of contributing to every aspect of society. Limitations are often imposed by societal norms, not ability.

We must challenge stereotypes and recognise that women can do anything. At the same time, balance is essential - the world thrives on collaboration, not competition between genders.

Final message

Everyone is unique and inherently capable. Do not compare yourself to others. Leadership exists within each person, it simply needs to be used.

Every role matters, whether at home, in business or in the community. For women especially, economic independence strengthens every aspect of life.