One World, One Vision: Uniting for Environmental and Social Innovation

Nepal, known for its breathtaking landscapes, is also one of the most vulnerable countries to the effects of climate change. From melting glaciers to rising pollution levels and shifting agricultural patterns, environmental issues are already affecting millions. Although Nepal contributes very little to global emissions, the consequences here are immense, threatening biodiversity, livelihoods, and public health.

At the same time, Nepal has a growing population of educated and energetic youth. But economic instability and a lack of job opportunities have led to brain drain and social stagnation. Entrepreneurship offers a powerful alternative—a way for young people to build meaningful careers while solving pressing social and environmental problems. In a country rich in culture and resilience, investing in youth-driven innovation can pave the way for sustainable development that uplifts local communities.

Creating Space for Global Conversations

Meaningful conversations around environmental responsibility and social innovation are more crucial than ever not only in Nepal but across the globe. Recognizing this, Social Lab Nepal has been actively fostering a space where young people from diverse geographies, cultures, and backgrounds come together to discuss shared challenges and co-create solutions.

One of the flagship platforms for this vision is the International Youth Exchange on Education and Entrepreneurship (IYE)—an annual, multi-day conference hosted by Social Lab Nepal. IYE brings together youth, researchers, civil society leaders, educators, innovators, and experts to address common global challenges. The core areas of exploration include education, entrepreneurship, innovation, climate change, green economy, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

This platform offers participants a unique opportunity to learn from each other, reflect on global best practices, and collaborate on solutions. Through engaging workshops, collaborative sessions, field visits, and hands-on group activities, the event nurtures a vibrant exchange of ideas and action.

IYE 2024: Global Voices, Local Impact

The most recent edition of IYE was held from August 28–30, 2024, bringing together participants from 10 countries across four continents. The event was a resounding success, thanks to the support of both national and international partners. Key organizations like Avant Garde Entrepreneur Academy, Welt Hunger Hilfe, Kathmandu University, Life Project for Youth (LP4Y), Association of Craft Producers, Akasha Academy, Nepal Reinsurance Company, and I Am the Gardener were among the contributors who made it happen.

In line with its mission to promote sustainable and inclusive entrepreneurship, IYE also featured a special marketplace—Loco-Mart—to spotlight local green businesses. Ventures like Deego, Eco-Sathi, CleanIt, SRHR Menstrual Hub, Nirmala Foundation, and Nyayno Maya showcased their products and ideas, adding real-world impact to the event’s vision.

Looking Ahead: IYE 2025 and Beyond

The enthusiasm, collaboration, and innovation witnessed at IYE 2024 set the stage for an even bigger and bolder vision for IYE 2025. As we continue this journey, it’s clear that creating platforms where young people can connect, collaborate, and lead is not just important—it’s essential.

By inviting youth to be part of these global conversations, we’re empowering the next generation to own the solutions. We need more spaces like IYE—where mentorship thrives, ideas flow freely, and young people can shape the future they want to live in.