APAN Foundation honours Chandni Joshi for decades of advocacy in gender equality, policy reform

KATHMANDU: APAN Foundation recently honoured Chandni Joshi, a leading advocate for gender equality and policy reform in Nepal and South Asia, during the Asian American Women’s Empowerment Celebration in New York, NEPYORK reported.

Dedicated to promoting the identity, integration, and empowerment of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) and other minority immigrants, the APAN Foundation recognised Joshi’s lifelong contributions to women’s rights. Her work includes her role as the former Regional Director of the United Nations Development Fund for Women (UNIFEM) South Asia Regional Office, where she established UNIFEM offices in India and Pakistan.

The event, organised in honour of Women’s History Month 2025, brought together community leaders, activists, and policymakers to celebrate the achievements of Asian American women. Official proclamations acknowledging Joshi’s efforts in advancing women’s rights, particularly for home-based workers and marginalised communities, were presented by US Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, New York State Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar, and Assemblymember Steven Raga.

Joshi expressed gratitude for the recognition, describing it as a meaningful moment. “This is truly an emotional moment for me,” she said. “This recognition is not just for me but for all the women and home-based workers I have fought for throughout my life.”

Guests participated in a discussion on Joshi’s work and her newly published book, 'Weaving My South Asian Tapestry,' followed by a book signing session. Joshi highlighted the importance of continued advocacy for gender rights, protection of home-based workers, and engaging younger generations in the movement.

In her keynote address, Joshi reiterated the urgent need for gender rights advocacy and support for home-based workers.

The event also honoured seven distinguished women from diverse backgrounds as the 2025 Women Empowerment Honourees. They included Dolma Lama, Dr Priya Rimal, Dr Puspa Acharya Kafle, Shivangi Singh, Sumi Sarkar, Tandeep Kaur Sawhney, and Tsering Diki. Each honouree expressed gratitude for the recognition and drew inspiration from Joshi’s advocacy.

Pragya Panthi, Chair of the APAN Foundation’s Youth/Student Welfare Committee, moderated the event, showcasing the organisation’s focus on youth leadership. Amit Pratap Shah, Founder and Executive Director of the APAN Foundation and Mithila Center USA, highlighted the Mithila Heritage Exhibition and its alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The Asian American Women’s Empowerment Celebration emphasised the importance of equality and the impact of sustained advocacy, supported by strong community participation. 

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