Hult Prize at IOE Hosts Talk Series I: Inspiring Future Social Entrepreneurs
11th January 2024, Kathmandu
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.
Hult Prize IOE Talk Series I
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 program began promptly at 6 PM on Zoom, featuring the organizing committee of the Hult Prize at IOE, esteemed guests, and attendees, including both participants and non-participants. Miss Priyanka Kaushik Chhetri, an architecture student at Pulchowk Campus, served as the emcee for the event. She started by introducing the distinguished guests: Mr. Ajit Bikram Shah, CEO of Lotus Holdings, and Miss Shreeya Giri, Founder of Happy Minds. The official program commenced with a warm welcome speech from Miss Riyaj Nepal, the Campus Director of Hult at IOE, Pulchowk Campus, setting the tone for a thought-provoking and engaging session. The introduction of esteemed speakers built anticipation among attendees eager to learn from these changemakers.
Ajit Bikram Shah captivated the audience with the story of Lotus Minds, an enterprise founded on innovation and resilience. Drawing on over 30 years of business experience, he emphasized the importance of connecting Nepali youth, especially those studying abroad, with opportunities in their home country. Shah highlighted key qualities essential for entrepreneurial success in Nepal, such as perseverance, learning from failures, and understanding one’s strengths and weaknesses.
Shreeya Giri, the founder of Happy Minds, shared an equally compelling narrative, detailing her motivations and experiences in addressing mental health challenges in Nepal. She underscored the significance of business and relationship development, asserting that a commercial approach can coexist with social impact. Her advice for aspiring entrepreneurs was to never let rejections discourage them and always strive for personal and professional growth.
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, as well as 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 played a vital role 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 expressed their preference for 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 the joy of work will diminish.
An open floor was then given to attendees, allowing them to pose various questions to the guests, such as the importance of networking, tips for building strong networks, essential skills for success in life, and the patterns of individuals affected by mental health issues. Our guests skillfully addressed all these questions, giving attendees a clearer vision.
The event concluded with a renewed sense of purpose among participants, many of whom left with actionable insights to pursue their entrepreneurial aspirations. The Talk Series promises to maintain this momentum, offering more opportunities for students to engage with thought leaders and innovators in the future.
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 pave the way for a brighter, more innovative future.