When we set out to highlight a handful of women-led NGOs in Asia, we quickly realised that narrowing it down to just five wouldn’t do justice to the incredible work being done. Across the region, women are leading organisations that drive social change, empower marginalised communities, and protect the environment. Their work is not only transformative but also deeply necessary.
Here are 8 NGOs founded or led by women that are making a lasting impact.
Environmental Justice & Human Rights
EarthRights International – Ka Hsaw Wa & Katie Redford (Myanmar/Thailand)
EarthRights International fights for indigenous communities affected by environmental destruction and human rights abuses in Southeast Asia. While co-founded by Ka Hsaw Wa, environmental lawyer Katie Redford has played a crucial role in shaping the organisation’s legal and advocacy work. Their efforts have led to landmark legal cases against corporate environmental exploitation.
Women’s Economic Empowerment
SEWA (Self-Employed Women’s Association) – Ela Bhatt (India)
SEWA is one of India’s most impactful organisations supporting women in informal labour. By providing financial services, training, and advocacy, SEWA has enabled millions of women to achieve economic independence. Founded by Ela Bhatt, the organisation has been instrumental in elevating the status of women workers across India.
Gender Equality & Social Justice
HER Fund – Linda To, Catherine Ng, Cecilia Young, Chung Yuen Yi, Lin Chew, Chan Yu, and Lam Wai Ha (Hong Kong)
HER Fund supports grassroots organisations advocating for gender equity and social justice in Hong Kong. By providing funding and capacity-building support to marginalised women’s groups, HER Fund amplifies the voices of those working toward systemic change.
AWARE (Association of Women for Action and Research) – Zaibun Siraj and Dr Vivienne Wee (Singapore)
AWARE is Singapore’s leading gender equality organisation, pushing for workplace rights, anti-violence policies, and inclusive social structures. AWARE has shaped key policy reforms that have improved gender inclusivity in Singapore.
The Women’s Foundation – Female-founded group (Hong Kong)
The Women’s Foundation is one of Hong Kong’s most influential gender advocacy groups, focusing on workplace diversity, leadership development, and youth empowerment. Through research, mentorship programmes, and policy initiatives, the foundation works to close gender gaps in Hong Kong society.
Migrant & Reproductive Health
PathFinders – Founded by Kylie Uebergang and Melissa Mowbray-d’Arbela, led by Catherine Gurtin (CEO), (Hong Kong)
PathFinders provides crucial support to migrant domestic workers in Hong Kong, particularly those who become pregnant. The organisation ensures that these women have access to healthcare, legal aid, and education, preventing them from falling into crisis situations.
Roots of Health – Amina Evangelista Swanepoel (Philippines)
Roots of Health provides reproductive health education and services to underserved communities in the Philippines, focusing on women and young people. By addressing barriers to sexual health services, the organisation empowers communities with knowledge and access to care.
Sustainable Livelihoods & Ethical Trade
Industree Foundation – Neelam Chhiber (India)
Industree Foundation supports artisans and rural women in India by connecting them to markets, finance, and technology. By promoting ethical supply chains and circular economy principles, Industree helps women build sustainable livelihoods and drive long-term economic change.
Why Their Work Matters
These organisations are more than just initiatives—they are lifelines for communities, movements for justice, and blueprints for a more equitable future. Led by visionary women, they challenge systemic inequalities, create economic opportunities, and protect the planet. Their work deserves recognition and support, not just on International Women’s Day, but every day.
