The first installment of the highly anticipated "Talk Series I: Introduction to Social Entrepreneurship" successfully concluded, inspiring attendees to explore the dynamic world of social entrepreneurship. This event, organized to foster innovation and entrepreneurial spirit among students, brought together renowned personalities to share their journeys, experiences, and insights.
On January 7, 2025, the event commenced at 6 PM via Zoom, featuring the Hult Prize at the IOE organizing committee alongside esteemed guests and a diverse audience of participants and non-participants. Miss Priyanka Kaushik Chhetri, an architecture student from Pulchowk Campus, emceed the event. She started the proceedings by introducing the distinguished guests: Mr. Ajit Bikram Shah, CEO of Lotus Holdings, and Miss Shreeya Giri, founder of Happy Minds. The official program began with a warm welcome from Miss Riyaj Nepal, the Campus Director of Hult at IOE, Pulchowk Campus, who set an engaging and thought-provoking tone for the session. The introduction of the noteworthy speakers heightened the anticipation among attendees, who were eager to learn from these changemakers.
Ajit Bikram Shah engaged the audience with the narrative of Lotus Minds, a company built on innovation and resilience. Leveraging his 30-plus years of business experience, he stressed the need to link Nepali youth, particularly those studying overseas, with opportunities back home. Shah underscored critical attributes required for entrepreneurial success in Nepal, including perseverance, the ability to learn from failures, and self-awareness regarding one’s strengths and weaknesses.
Shreeya Giri, founder of Happy Minds, shared a resonant story about her motivations and experiences tackling mental health issues in Nepal. She emphasized the importance of developing business and relationships, asserting that a commercial approach can align with social impact. Her guidance for budding entrepreneurs is to view rejections as stepping stones and consistently pursue personal and professional development.
An interactive Q&A session was a highlight of the event, providing the audience with actionable insights:
- On being featured in Forbes 30 Under 30, Giri shared how persistence and a focus on growth were key factors in her success and an overview of mental health challenges in Nepal. She noted that ignorance about mental health is still prevalent in remote areas, the significant problems for the youth due to academic pressure, familial issues, and societal expectations.
- When discussing the major skills required for entrepreneurship to succeed in Nepal's market, Shah highlighted the importance of business development, relationship building, growth through experience, and continuous learning. He emphasized that supporting other entrepreneurs has also been vital in his journey.
- Both guests provided insightful and direct answers regarding the future of entrepreneurship in Nepal when asked about their perspectives.
- When asked what they would do with $1,000 in 24 hours, both speakers preferred investing in emerging technology and seizing learning opportunities rather than rushing into decisions.
The speakers also addressed the ideation phase of entrepreneurship, acknowledging the challenges involved in finalizing a business model. Giri explained that Happy Minds’ approach emerged from extensive brainstorming and refinement, encouraging the audience to embrace uncertainty as an integral part of the process. Shah added that money should never drive interest; one must have a genuine passion for what they do, or else the joy of work will diminish.
An open floor was then provided for attendees to ask questions to the guests about topics like the significance of networking, strategies for developing robust networks, key skills for success, and the challenges faced by those dealing with mental health issues. Our guests adeptly responded to all inquiries, giving attendees a clearer understanding.
The event ended on a high note, with participants feeling inspired and equipped with practical insights to further their entrepreneurial goals. The Talk Series aims to sustain this energy by providing additional chances for students to connect with thought leaders and innovators moving forward.
This event showcased the power of dialogue, networking, and the collective drive to create meaningful impact. Nepal’s entrepreneurial ecosystem is thriving, and initiatives like this are paving the way for a brighter, more innovative future.
