+1 646-730-6173 fiwna123@fiwna.org
Established 2010 · NYC

Our Mission,
History & Work

Realizing justice, freedom, and self-determination for migrant Indigenous Women of Nepal in America.

Our Mission Our History Community
Who We Are

Welcome to FIWNA

The Federation of Indigenous Women of Nepal in America (FIWNA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 2010 in New York City — the first organization specifically dedicated to serving migrant Indigenous Women from Nepal.

When FIWNA was established, no existing NGOs adequately addressed the specific needs of Indigenous Nepali women navigating life in America. We exist to fill that gap — providing community, advocacy, education, and support rooted in Indigenous values and traditions.

2010

Founded

2012

501(c)(3) Registered

59

Indigenous Peoples

FIWNA Mission
Headquarters

Elmhurst, Queens
New York City, USA

Purpose

Our Mission

The mission of our organization is realizing justice, freedom, human rights, self-determination and enjoying better life with distinct Indigenous identity by migrant Indigenous women of Nepal living in America.

— FIWNA Mission Statement

How we fulfil our mission

Timely Support & Advice

Providing immediate help, guidance, and culturally sensitive support to Indigenous women navigating life in America.

Education & Legal Literacy

Enhancing awareness through education, legal literacy programs, and English language skill-building workshops.

Emotional & Social Support

Addressing emotional and social challenges related to migration, discrimination, and cultural adjustment.

Cultural Identity Preservation

Preserving Nepali Indigenous identity and promoting cross-cultural understanding within the broader American society.

Inclusive Platforms

Creating culturally inclusive spaces for sharing experiences, mutual learning, and collective decision-making using Talking Circles.

Leadership Development

Empowering Indigenous women to become leaders in their communities through training, mentorship, and advocacy opportunities.

Our Journey

History of FIWNA

From the first wave of Nepali migration to a thriving community of over 200,000 — and FIWNA's role in that story.

The Beginning

1953 — Migration Begins

The first wave of Nepali migration to America begins. Indigenous Peoples from Nepal are among these early migrants, seeking opportunities for education, work, and a better life.

1953
1993
Growth

1993 — Community Grows

The Nepali community in America reaches 1,296 people. Migration accelerates through undergraduate and graduate education, the diversity visa lottery, asylum from the 1996–2006 insurgency, and work and family visa sponsorships.

Founded

2010 — FIWNA is Born

FIWNA is founded in New York City by board members who personally experienced the adjustment challenges faced by Indigenous Nepali women in America. No existing NGO addressed these specific needs — so they built one.

2010
2012
Official Recognition

2012 — 501(c)(3) Registered

FIWNA is officially registered as a New York-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, gaining formal recognition and the ability to receive tax-deductible donations to further the mission.

Today

200,000+ Strong

The Nepalese community in America surpasses 208,000 (2020 Census), with approximately 24% identifying as Indigenous Peoples. FIWNA continues organizing in Queens, New York, using the Indigenous tradition of Talking Circles for collective participation and leadership building.

2020 US Census

Nepalese Community in America

Understanding who we serve — the data behind the diaspora.

Total Nepalese Population in the US

208,000

as of 2020 US Census · ~24% identify as Indigenous Peoples

60.1%

Male

39.4%

Female

7.2%

Live in New York State (3rd highest)

~24%

Indigenous Peoples

57.5%

Student Visa Holders

26.5%

Green Card Holders

4.5%

US Citizens

12%

Dependents & Specialty Professionals

Community Composition

Indigenous Peoples~24%
Dominant Caste Groups66%
Madhesi10%
Dalits1%
Muslims0.7%
Who We Serve

Our Community

We work with migrant Indigenous Women of Nepali origin in America — a diverse community representing Nepal's 59 formally recognized Indigenous Peoples.

Larger Communities

Magar Tamu (Gurung) Tamang Newar Khambu (Rai) Yakthung (Limbu) Tharu

Smaller Communities

Sherpa Sunuwar Jirel Bhujel Hyolmo Bahragunle Thakali Thangmi

Nepal formally recognizes 59 distinct Indigenous Peoples. FIWNA is guided by the ILO Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and emphasizes equity, environmental stewardship, development justice, and the uplift of marginalized voices through education, advocacy, and community-building.

Our Approach

Talking Circles

FIWNA uses the Indigenous tradition of Talking Circles as our core model for collective participation, representation, and decision-making.

This approach ensures every voice is heard equally — rooted in the cultural practices of the communities we serve, rather than imposed external frameworks.

Guided By

  • ILO Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples
  • UNDRIP — UN Declaration on Rights of Indigenous Peoples
  • CEDAW — Convention on Elimination of Discrimination Against Women
  • Equity, Environmental Stewardship & Development Justice

Join the Community to Support Us

Be part of the movement empowering Indigenous Women of Nepal in America. Every action — big or small — makes a difference.

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