By Melissa Ip
The Surya Nepal Asha Social Entrepreneurship Award (SNASEA) 2012, which began the search for social entrepreneurs in Nepal in August, announced its winners yesterday.
Five social entrepreneurs were selected as recipients of the award.
Shanti Shakya Dolma, Kakani Himalayan Natural Dyes, reduces the negative impact created by artificial dyes and trains women to prepare natural dyes from locally sourced raw materials, which allows them to gain financial independence and reduces episodes of domestic violence.
Chiranjeevi Paudel, Seeing Hands Clinics, empowers the visually impaired through job creation.
Bishal Dhakal, Health at Home, creates easy access to healthcare.
Prachanda Shakya, Nepal Traditional Handicraft Training Centre, preserves traditional art through a training artisans.
Jasmaya Pun, Hampaal Allo Tatha Kapada Bunai Udhyog, trains and employs women in sewing products using local waste from the forests.
The winners were selected from a pool of over 80 applicants. Other than a cash prize of NPR 100,000, winners will receive networking opportunities from ChangeFusion Nepal.
The SNASEA aims to recognize, celebrate, and showcase social entrepreneurs and their impact to put them on the map and inspire others.
In addition, three social entrepreneurs were recognized as "Hidden Heroes" for over ten years of contribution and dedication to their communities. They include Govinda Ghimire of Alternative Herbal, Tara Baskota of Shangri-La Agro World, and Som Prasad Gauchan of Everest Tea Estate.
A special "National Business Initiative (NBI) Agent of Change" recognition was given to four businesses that support, develop, and promote startups and entrepreneurship in Nepal. These may include those who provide access to finance, education and training, logistical assistance, or visibility. The businesses recognized were Himalayan Naturals, Lotus Holdings, Women Support Saving and Credit Cooperative Society, and Brihat Investments.
Luna Shrestha Thakur, director of ChangeFusion Nepal, commented on the event this year compared to the previous. "We are glad that we have been able to make applicants understand about the eligibility of the award as all the applicants were deserving, unlike last year when very few understood the concept of social entrepreneurship," she said.
The SNASEA also included a 3-day bazaar in October where social entrepreneurs from Nepal gathered with customers, investors, and mentors.
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