Growing up in Dharan-18, Sunsari, in a community where many women were financially dependent on their male counterparts, Sushma Rai always felt the urge to challenge that cycle. She believed that women could be equally capable of earning, leading, and inspiring others. With a deep interest in clothing design and a vision to create change, she migrated from Dharan to Kathmandu, convincing her family to let her follow her passion for fashion and entrepreneurship.
Her turning point came when she discovered the Nabil School of Social Entrepreneurship (Nabil SSE) Fellowship Program—a platform she describes as the most transformative chapter of her entrepreneurial journey.
The Nabil SSE Fellowship, initiated under Nabil Bank Limited’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program, was designed to empower aspiring and existing social entrepreneurs by equipping them with practical skills, mentorship, and access to financial opportunities. Through interactive training, peer learning, and guidance from experienced mentors, Rai gained valuable insights into market research, business planning, financial management, and brand development. These lessons helped her transform her boutique into a structured, sustainable enterprise.
Established in 2018, Tayami Boutique has grown into a women-led social enterprise producing high-quality women’s wear and baby clothes using locally sourced materials. Beyond fashion, Tayami embodies empowerment—offering hands-on training, dignified employment, and financial independence to local women. From two staff members, Rai now leads a team of 25 women, many of whom were once confined to household responsibilities. Tayami has since developed its own identity, specializing in maternity wear, baby clothing, and women’s apparel that blends comfort, culture, and creativity.
The Nabil SSE Fellowship Program, organized in collaboration with the School of Management, Tribhuvan University (SOMTU), is a six-month residential and field-based initiative. It provides modules on business strategy, leadership, impact measurement, and sustainability while connecting fellows with expert mentors and networks. To date, the program has trained 76 fellows, leading to the establishment of 62 enterprises and the creation of over 14,500 jobs across Nepal. This year, Nabil SSE has introduced province-specific thematic priorities—focusing on various aims.
According to Manoj Kumar Gyawali, CEO of Nabil Bank, “Empowering social entrepreneurs has proven to be one of the most effective means to fulfill our commitment to national development. With this cohort, we are strategically channeling our resources to reach the most disadvantaged communities, translating financial innovation into tangible, inclusive growth across all provinces.”
