READ-Nepal:
The aim of the documentary about Rehabilitation Empowerment And Development –Nepal (READ-Nepal) was to tell the story of a very impressive and worthy small NGO working in the field of leprosy in Nepal, who constantly struggles to be heard. This NGO was set-up by an inspiring, courageous and brave man named Raj Kumar Shah (features in the film), who has tackled many obstacles in his own life such as poverty, leprosy, disability and discrimination, but still found the strength to fight for those marginalised and stigmatised by leprosy. His story, energy and outlook is enough to inspire many, yet he seeks to constantly do more to help and empower those who seek his help and to develop awareness and tackle discrimination to those who still believe old myths surrounding the disease. Despite this and Raj’s efforts the NGO struggles even to be heard in developmental aid circles due to it not fitting prescribed agenda’s and institutional funding budgets. This same story of struggle is often retold by small local NGO’s. Giving such organisations and their work a platform therefore is important and valuable to help in their development to bring awareness and funding to the cause and the work, promoting sustainability. This particular documentary was also made for Raj to present at an international conference on Leprosy held in Seoul at the end of November 2010. Raj was invited to this conference to talk about the issue and challenge of ‘empowerment’.

For more information about READ-Nepal: www.readnepal.info