Anurada Koirala The CNN Hero

Ms. Anuradha Koirala is the Founder and Executive Director of Maiti Nepal. Born in Nepal and as a former English teacher, Ms. Koirala began Maiti Nepal in Kathmandu in a small house with her own savings. Today she is a renowned activist and professor who has dedicated her life to combating sexual exploitation of women and children.
Her accomplishments have been recognized by numerous awards. Her work is often dangerous and requires great personal sacrifice. The criminal elements to girls are a ruthless enemy and has connections at the highest political level in India and Nepal. Maiti Nepal in Kathmandu office has been destroyed twice. Maiti and workers must travel with a bodyguard, while overseeing the rescue operations in India.
Her commitment was an inspiration to her staff of volunteers greatly. Most workers have rescued girls and young women who are healthy enough to work. "They need little interest for me," said Koirala. "They work to help their sisters and know the horror of the victims." She adds: "Society rejects me and my daughters, but they are most important in my life."