SASANE Sisterhood Receives UNWTO Award for Excellence and Innovation in Tourism
Kathmandu, Nepal — 27 March, 2018
SASANE Sisterhood Trekking & Travel has received the UNWTO Award for Excellence and Innovation in Tourism from the United Nations World Tourism Organization, presented at the UNWTO General Assembly in Madrid. The award recognises SASANE's pioneering model of training survivors of human trafficking as government-certified professional tour guides and trekking leaders in Nepal.
About SASANE Sisterhood
Founded in 2016, SASANE Sisterhood is Nepal's first survivor-led travel enterprise. The organisation trains women survivors of human trafficking through an intensive 6-month professional development programme, after which graduates sit the national certification exam administered by Nepal's Department of Tourism. Over 117 women have completed the programme, with a 90%+ pass rate. Graduates go on to lead international travelers through Himalayan treks, cultural tours, wellness retreats, and culinary experiences.
The Award
The UNWTO Award for Excellence and Innovation recognises tourism initiatives that demonstrate outstanding innovation in creating social impact through tourism. SASANE was selected from nominations across 170+ member states for its measurable results:
- 200+ survivors trained and certified as professional guides
- 300+ tourism jobs created across Nepal's tourism sector
- 22% reduction in trafficking rates across 11 partner communities
- 4900 + international travelers served since 2016
Statement from the Founder
"This award from the United Nations World Tourism Organization confirms what we have demonstrated for eight years — that tourism is not just an industry, it is one of the most powerful tools for human rights when structured correctly," said Jeny Pokharel, Founder and CEO of SASANE Sisterhood. "Our guides are not tokens or charity cases. They are certified professionals who earned their place in this industry through rigour, determination, and excellence. The UNWTO has recognised that this model is replicable globally."
Previous Recognition
This award adds to SASANE's growing international recognition: - To Do Award 2023 — Human Rights in Tourism (first Nepali enterprise) - Booking Booster 2019 — Top 10 globally (Booking.com) - World's Leading Sustainable Female Empowerment Initiative (Sustainable Hospitality Alliance) - Cited in ILO research on tourism and trafficking prevention (2023) - Meaningful Business 100 (2026) - Board member, Roundtable Human Rights in Tourism (2024)
Media Contact
For interview requests, high-resolution images, or further information:
Email: info@sasanesisterhoodtrek.com Website: sasanesisterhoodtrek.com
About SASANE Sisterhood Trekking & Travel: SASANE is an award-winning, survivor-led travel enterprise based in Kathmandu, Nepal. Founded in 2016, it operates as a social enterprise — not a charity — generating revenue through professional tourism services while directing impact towards anti-trafficking prevention and survivor empowerment. SASANE's non-profit arm (sasane.org.np) handles rehabilitation and community programmes.