On the occasion of International Women’s Day, Zonta Club Kathmandu hosted its annual Rose Day 2026, celebrating the achievements and contributions of women across Nepal. The event, held with great enthusiasm and inspiration, brought together leaders, change-makers, and rising stars to honour their dedication and impact in various fields.
The prestigious Princess Helen Shah Inspirational Women of the Year Award was presented to Renu Adhikari Rajbhandari for her exceptional leadership and service to society. Amar Rana Game Changer Award went to Shilshila Acharya, recognising her transformative contributions in her field.
The event also highlighted educational initiatives through the Jyoti Scholarship, awarded to Dr Manu Karki, founder of Eco Sathi, and Sadhana Panthi, representing women in STEAM. Indrakala Mathema Amelia Earhart was awarded to Lubina Sharma. While Indrakala Scholarship (Young woman in business leadership) was awarded to Susmina thapaliya. This year, the newly introduced Rana Ambika Guthi Scholarship was awarded to Mahendra Bhawan Higher Secondary School and Shree Saraswati Ma. Vi. Ghorahi Shree Mahendra Ma. Vi. Dharna.
The programme also honoured unsung heroes including Mala Kharel, Balkumari Giri, Puja Basnet, and Kalpana Maharjan, alongside women leaders from diverse sectors such as Bishakha Laxmi Khadka (Ncell), Alina Rajbhandari (Standard Chartered Bank), Pranisha Shrestha (NMB Bank), Aarti Rana (Laxmi Sunrise Bank), Anju Poudel (Everest Bank Limited), DSP Purnima Chand, Bhawana Sharma (Bizmandu), and Laxmi Bhandari (Nari Group).
The chief guest, Her Excellency Ruwanthi Delpitiya, Sri Lankan Ambassador to Nepal, highlighted the transformative power of women, stating, “Women reshape societies. When women are educated, they become financially independent. They can produce leaders, even the world’s first female Prime Minister in Sri Lanka.”
Established to empower women through service, education, and leadership, Zonta Club Kathmandu has been organising Rose Day annually to honour women achievers, encourage community engagement, and inspire the next generation of women leaders in Nepal.
