In November 2022, the British Council launched the ‘Youth for Climate Action’ (YCA) project under South Asia’s Youth Connect Programme, led by Nepal’s largest youth network organisation, the Association of Youth Organisations Nepal (AYON). The initiative aimed to empower Nepalese youth to tackle climate change through community action, skills development, and policy engagement. Through the project, 150 young individuals received training in social leadership, supporting local climate initiatives such as the Climate Creativity Contest with small grants.
Recognising the declining cultural connection to nature in Dakshinkali Municipality due to urban expansion, economic activities, and a lack of environmental education, Namrata, Kaushal, Aagya, and Bibek sought to make a difference. They designed the Climate Creativity Contest to engage students from grades 7 to 10, encouraging them to reflect on environmental issues through creative expression in art, literature, and quizzes. Their goal was to inspire young minds to act towards sustainability.
In May 2024, the contest attracted 150 students—80 young women and 70 young men actively participating in the event. Beyond being a competition, the initiative sparked long-term community involvement. As a result, eco-clubs were established in schools, taking the lead in organising tree planting and clean-up drives. The contest's success drew the attention of local authorities, inspiring similar activities across the municipality. The mayor praised the initiative and pledged to mobilise the established eco-clubs for future environmental activities.
Reflecting on the experience, team leader Namrata, a forestry graduate and passionate nature advocate, stated, “This experience taught us that true leadership involves teamwork, resilience, and inspiring action.” Having previously worked to bridge the gap between indigenous communities and conservation efforts, she brought her expertise in climate justice campaigns to the project.
Her teammate Bibek, an environmental science researcher and entrepreneur, highlighted the challenges of engaging stakeholders and adapting to unexpected situations. As a trekking guide and founder of Hike and Trek Adventure, he advocates for sustainable tourism and is involved in carbon finance research.
Kaushal, an 18-year-old climate activist from Biratnagar, emphasised the importance of collaboration in leadership. His work in climate advocacy and international youth forums underscored the role of young leaders in driving change.
The team established the Climate Care Network (CCN), now a registered NGO to sustain the initiative's momentum. CCN brings together students, teachers, and local leaders to continue fostering environmental awareness through creativity. Aagya, a final-year Geomatics Engineering student, highlighted how the contest provided valuable learning experiences, reinforcing her passion for environmental sustainability and inclusion.
Looking back, Namrata, Bibek, Kaushal, and Aagya take pride in their work, as the Climate Care Network continues to create opportunities for students and educators. Through their efforts, they have introduced a playful approach to environmental education and fostered a culture of sustainability in Dakshinkali, paving the way for a lasting change movement.
