BIRATNAGAR, Aug 13: At a time when youth migration from Nepal is on the rise, entrepreneurs and business leaders have emphasized the need to move beyond rhetoric and create meaningful opportunities that encourage young people to stay in the country. They urged youths to remain resilient, seek opportunities within challenges, and embrace entrepreneurship.
Speaking at the Youth Talk Series organized by the Nepal Young Entrepreneurs’ Forum (NYEF), Sunsari, on Tuesday at Biratchowk, Morang on the occasion of International Youth Day, prominent youth speakers stressed that both the state and society must be serious about retaining the youth force within the country.
Sambridhi Gyawali, Managing Director of Nepal Republic Media Limited, highlighted the importance of creating opportunities at home to prevent youth migration and inspire young and women entrepreneurs. Speaking on the theme “Hustle to Impact”, she noted that youth play a key role in nation-building when guided by self-confidence, life balance and long-term vision.
MD Gyawali stressed the importance of balancing struggles, reflecting on how we perceive them, and learning from them, as these lessons shape the future. She urged youth to maintain a clear mindset in all endeavors. "Youths should focus on becoming the best version of themselves rather than worrying excessively about societal expectations. If you want to go abroad, go; if you want to stay here, stay. Do it for yourself, not for others," she said.
NRM contributing to democracy, economic growth through quality...
Reflecting on her journey to becoming MD at the age of 32, Gyawali shared the challenges of deviating from societal expectations. "Many did not believe in me because I appeared different," she said. She emphasized the importance of moving forward with confidence while balancing multiple roles as a daughter, wife, daughter-in-law, and entrepreneur.
"Do not lose your full potential by believing in others’ negativity," she added. She noted that every struggle prepares a person for the next challenge. "I thought I would step away from running the company, but I am still the Managing Director and continue to move forward in innovative ways," she said. Recalling the difficulties of running a media organization during the COVID-19 pandemic without advertising revenue, she said, "Challenges come, but by being mentally prepared and moving forward with determination, you can achieve ten times more."
She cautioned against a hustle-only mentality, saying it cannot help build lasting institutions. Pausing, reflecting, and strategizing are essential. Highlighting that today’s generation is comparatively well-off compared to the older generation constrained by day-to-day survival, she encouraged youth to consider the kinds of institutions Nepal needs and how to strengthen them for the long term. "Our generation must pause, reflect, and focus on the kind of country we want to build," she said.
Panelist Sanjog Koirala, an actor, producer and entrepreneur, emphasized that success comes from consistent effort, regardless of scale. Sharing his experience of being criticized by family for opening a tea shop after studying to become a Chartered Accountant, he said, "My family mocked me, saying it was shameful to open a tea shop after studying chartered accountancy. But today, that tea shop, 'Chiya Adda,' has established my identity as a successful entrepreneur." He urged the audience, "Listen to everyone, but work your own way."
"My family mocked me, saying it was shameful to open a tea shop after studying chartered accountancy. But today, that tea shop, 'Chiya Adda,' has established my identity as a successful entrepreneur."
Sanjog Koirala, an actor, producer and entrepreneur.
Suyesh Pyakurel, former President of the Morang Industry Organization, reminded youth that while success is visible, the struggle behind it often goes unnoticed. "Success without struggle is only possible in fairy tales; otherwise, it is impossible," he said, urging youth to not just plan but act and remain committed.
Tourism entrepreneur Dr. Dinesh Prasain highlighted the opportunities Nepali society offers and encouraged youth to drive change. Emphasizing political transformation, he noted that leaders from the three main parties have alternated as Prime Minister for the past 30 years without meaningful action. "Even within the same party, different individuals can drive change," he said, urging youth to work toward political leadership transformation.
NYEF President Sudip Ghimire said youth are valuable assets who need proper guidance. "Youth carry opportunities, potential, and the power to drive change, but if not properly managed, they can also become challenges," he said.
Rajiv Ghimire, President of the Sunsari chapter of NYEF, added that the program was organized on Youth Day to inspire young people to engage in new ventures. The event saw participation from students of various campuses, young entrepreneurs, and teachers, who actively engaged with the panelists.
