In Our Hands offers a platform for youth entrepreneurs to develop sustainable enterprises that champion Nepal’s natural and cultural heritage.
Background
Our study on the role of culture in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) advocates for a more integrated approach to culture in development (see Missing Pillar report). In Our Hands focuses on cultural (or traditional) making as a stepping stone to realising the Creative Green Economy.
Youth in Nepal are ready to tackle climate change but often lack the access and resources to take the next step (see Youth Perception on Climate Change report). Due to globalisation and local conditions, Nepal’s youth show a strong interest in their communities and traditional knowledge systems, evident from the rise of youth-led heritage-based businesses. In Our Hands views youth entrepreneurship as key to inclusive development, delivering immense value for communities across Nepal when steered towards purposes beyond profit.
In Our Hands aims to build capacity and provide resources, platforms, and connections to help develop a creative green economy in Nepal, advancing its long-term climate goals. It includes structured and guided learning through business planning exercises, research, and grants to develop prototypes or pilot ideas. Experts from relevant sectors mentor participants throughout the programme over several months. The IOH curriculum is based on the Quintuple Bottomline, highlighting the interrelations between Place, People, Planet, Purpose, and Profit. This 5Ps framework integrates heritage into a logical structure, championing people-centred approaches and bringing social cohesion and economic growth (see Culture Heritage for Inclusive Growth, 2018).
In Our Hands was introduced as the Innovation Grant award as part of the Road to COP26 campaign (2020-2022). The first iteration was based on activities conducted since 2018 for Crafting Futures (2018 – 2022).
What is a Creative Green Economy?
A Creative Green Economy combines creativity, cultural heritage, and sustainable practices to tackle environmental challenges while fostering economic growth and social well-being. It integrates arts, crafts, and cultural knowledge to develop environmentally friendly solutions that promote community resilience and preserve natural resources.