Notable Roles | - Founder & Executive Director, Purple Feminists Group |
Key Recognition | - BBC 100 Women (2020) |
Background and Early Foundations
Nandar, born Nandu Gyawali in 1995 in Mansam, a town in Myanmar’s Shan State, experienced a pivotal moment in her adolescence when her father died of an epileptic seizure. Her mother, adhering to cultural taboos surrounding menstruation, refrained from assisting him, believing it would worsen his condition. This traumatic event ignited Nandar’s commitment to challenging harmful gender norms and advocating for women’s rights.
Determined to break free from societal expectations, Nandar pursued education opportunities beyond her hometown, studying in Yangon and participating in scholarship programs in Thailand and Bangladesh.
Career Milestones and Impact
Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
2018 | Founded the Purple Feminists Group to promote gender equality and reproductive health awareness. |
2019 | Launched the G-Taw Zagar Wyne podcast, addressing taboo topics in Burmese society. |
2020 | Named to the BBC 100 Women list for her advocacy work. |
2021 | Shortlisted for the Index on Censorship's Freedom of Expression Awards. |
- Podcasts: Two active podcasts (G-Taw Zagar Wyne and Feminist Talks) with a growing international audience.
- Publications: Translated and published influential feminist literature into Burmese, expanding access to global feminist discourse.
- Workshops: Conducted numerous workshops on sexual and reproductive health, reaching hundreds of young people across Myanmar.
- Campaigns: Led national campaigns to destigmatize menstruation and promote gender equality.
Leadership Style and Influence
Nandar’s leadership is characterized by her fearless approach to confronting societal taboos and her commitment to amplifying marginalized voices. Through the Purple Feminists Group, she employs creative methods—such as theater, podcasts, and literature—to engage communities in conversations about gender, sexuality, and human rights. Her work has been instrumental in fostering a more inclusive and equitable society in Myanmar.
Legacy and Future Focus
Despite facing political turmoil and personal risks, especially following Myanmar’s 2021 military coup, Nandar continues to advocate for democracy and women’s rights. Her resilience and dedication serve as an inspiration to activists worldwide. Looking ahead, she aims to expand her initiatives, focusing on digital literacy and mental health support for women and girls in conflict-affected areas.
