Visionary Leaders Panel Discussion: An Initiative to Innovate for a Sustainable Future at Hult Prize at IOE Pulchowk Campus
Pulchowk Campus, Kathmandu: On December 12 (Saturday), starting at 2:30 PM, Hult Prize at IOE Pulchowk Campus conducted an impactful panel discussion titled “Innovators for Sustainability: Achieving SDGs Together!” in the Library Hall of Pulchowk Campus. The energy in the room was inspiring, fueled by the presence of dynamic guest speakers. Participants were eager to hear what the guests had to offer and to present their questions accordingly.
The event began with a traditional welcome ceremony where Khadas were presented to our esteemed panelists: Mr. Akendra Joshi, Investment Analyst at Dolma Impact Fund; Miss Sareesha Shrestha, Doctor, Miss Nepal Earth 2022, and MBBS TU Gold Medalist; Mr. Simone Galimberti, Co-Founder of ENGAGE & Sharing4Good, a global advocate for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs); and Mr. Biplab Karki, CEO & Co-Founder of Hyperce and CTO of Clamphook by Miss Riyaj Nepal, the Campus Director of the Hult Prize at IOE Pulchowk Campus, and Miss Saisha Shrestha, a member of the organizing committee, served as the moderator.
During the discussion, panelists responded to various questions asked by our moderator. Dr. Sareesha Shrestha, a doctor, activist, and Miss Nepal Earth 2022 captivated the audience with her insights on balancing multiple demanding roles. As the founder of Sahayatri NGO, she discussed her effective time management strategies for creating impact. “It’s not just about managing time; it’s about prioritizing what truly matters,” she emphasized. Through her NGO, she empowers marginalized communities by addressing gaps in healthcare and environmental sustainability.
Mr. Akendra Joshi spoke passionately about the challenges faced by Nepali startups and offered advice on overcoming these issues. Sharing a success story from his time at Dolma, he illustrated how strategic investments can transform small startups into impactful businesses, stating, “Sustainability and profitability can and must go hand in hand.”
Mr. Simone Galimberti, a global advocate for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), highlighted the importance of partnerships in driving sustainable development. He emphasized that collaborations between universities and local communities in Nepal can foster innovation and sustainability. “The youth aren’t just our future; they’re our present. It’s time to empower them to lead,” he urged, calling for a greater focus on young changemakers.
Mr. Biplab Karki, a tech entrepreneur and founder of Hyperce and Clamphook, shared his journey from being an engineering student to becoming a startup founder. He discussed balancing a founder's passion for solving real problems with market opportunities. “If you’re not passionate about the problem, no amount of market potential will keep you going when things get tough,” he said, inspiring aspiring entrepreneurs to focus on what truly drives them.
The panel addressed practical questions such as balancing multiple interests to create impact, the role of institutions in encouraging sustainable development, and advice for participants needing help to turn their ideas into reality. A rapid-fire session followed, where panelists answered questions about their fields and knowledge of achieving the SDGs quickly. The discussion concluded with a fun segment where each panelist had to pitch a pen using their unique and entertaining techniques, successfully capturing the audience's attention. There was a brief questionnaire session with the audience, where they asked questions to the panelists, who successfully provided great answers that clarified students' queries.
As the session drew to a close, it was clear that the future of entrepreneurship goes beyond profits; it involves solving problems, building communities, and creating meaningful change. The panel inspired the attendees to take action and collaborate toward a more sustainable world.
At the end of the event, Miss Riyaj Nepal (The Campus Director) presented gifts to the panelists, including indoor plants from "I Am The Gardener" and a canvas artwork by Chitrakala Mini. These gifts were beautiful and added a lovely touch to the event. A group photo was taken with the esteemed guests and the organizing committee. Guests also enjoyed a delightful selection of food, including French fries, donuts, and muffins from Frenzie Fries, Donut Drool, and Herman’s Helmer German Bakery, respectively. Additionally, all attendees were served tea and muffins from Herman’s Helmer German Bakery.
This was not just a discussion; it was a movement that highlighted the importance of passion, dedication, and innovation in achieving the SDGs. Together, we can work towards a sustainable and equitable world.
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