The Sisterhood of Survivors scheme, which is run in Kathmandu, was awarded first place in the non-governmental category at the 12th annual UNWTO Awards for Excellence and Innovation in Tourism.
It was one of four top winners selected from among more than 100 candidates across 30 countries.
The Sisterhood of Survivors lunch programme provides training to trafficking survivors and vulnerable girls in the hospitality industry, by teaching them conversational English, customer service, accounting, and food and beverage management.
It is run in conjunction with Planeterra, G Adventures’ non-profit organisation, and is visited by customers on the operator’s tours who learn how to make Nepalese dumplings as well as have a hosted lunch
It was launched in 2014 by Nepalese nonprofit organisation Samrakshak Samuha Nepal (SASANE).
Planeterra programme manager Adrienne Lee said: “From a tiny one-room office above a store to a globally renowned social enterprise that’s supported by our travellers today, we’ve demonstrated how we can help bring underserved communities into the tourism supply chain through ethical business practices that prioritise doing well and doing good.”
SASANE’s managing director and founder, Shyam Pokharel added: “We are so happy to receive this award, which would not have been possible without the help and support of our friends at Planeterra and G Adventures.
“Their encouragement, training and steady stream of travellers have done so much to encourage others to learn about our organisation, and visit Nepal.”
The annual awards ceremony took place at the International Tourism Trade Fair in Madrid, Spain.
