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As we navigate through the currents of change, certain trends emerge as particularly interesting and impactful, influencing the way we connect, create, and engage with the world around us. From shifts in societal attitudes to advancements in technology, the trends unfolding in various domains offer insights into the collective pulse of our global community. Evana Manandhar from ApEx talked to three individuals, capturing diverse perspectives on the evolving landscape.

Pranjal Pokharel

The remarkable solidarity exhibited by the younger generation in opposing acts of terror in Palestine and championing a call for peace is a deeply impactful and inspiring trend. It transcends political, racial, and religious divides, revealing a collective commitment to a world free from violence and destruction. The sheer number of individuals expressing their disapproval of such acts, irrespective of their backgrounds or affiliations, is a testament to the unifying power of shared human values. 

This movement serves as a beacon of hope, showcasing the potential for positive change when diverse voices unite for a common cause. The global wave of empathy and advocacy for peace not only sheds light on the urgency of addressing conflicts but also underscores the capacity of the younger generation to bring transformative societal shifts. In a world often marked by division, this trend represents a heartwarming testament to the universal desire for a more compassionate and harmonious future.

Bibek Duwal​​​​​​​

In graphic design, one intriguing and impactful trend is the rise of minimalist and sustainable design principles. Many designers are embracing simplicity and eco-consciousness, creating visually striking yet clean and straightforward designs. This movement reflects a broader cultural shift toward mindfulness and sustainability, with designers opting for minimalistic aesthetics that convey messages efficiently while reducing environmental impact.

Furthermore, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into the design landscape has become a captivating and transformative force. Designers are exploring innovative applications of AI to enhance creativity and streamline workflows. Whether it’s automating repetitive tasks or leveraging AI algorithms to analyze user preferences, this trend is reshaping the design process. The infusion of AI also holds the potential to revolutionize personalized user experiences, providing designers with powerful tools to create adaptive and context-aware designs. As a graphic designer, staying attuned to these trends not only allows for continuous adaptation but also opens up exciting possibilities for pushing the boundaries of creative expression in the digital era.

Sadee Shakya 

The rise of the minimal makeup trend marks a notable departure from more elaborate and transformative beauty routines. This shift places a premium on achieving a natural and healthy look that enhances features rather than masking them. Embracing minimalism in makeup has become a powerful avenue for self-expression, allowing individuals to project a genuine and authentic image that aligns with their personal aesthetic preferences.

Beyond its visual appeal, the minimal makeup trend has had a transformative effect on attitudes towards beauty. It fosters a sense of confidence and self-acceptance, encouraging individuals to appreciate and celebrate their unique features. Renowned makeup artists specializing in this trend further propel its popularity, emphasizing that beauty can be found in simplicity. This trend’s enduring nature lies in its ability to transcend age and cultural boundaries, resonating with a diverse audience seeking a timeless and universally appealing approach to beauty.

Our strengths define who we are. It often dictates how we behave and deal with issues that arise in our personal and professional lives. Evana Manandhar from Apex spoke to three people, from different backgrounds, to find out how their strengths shape who they are.

Samishan GC, Actor

In the pursuit of an acting career, cultivating unwavering patience and maintaining a perpetual learning mindset are indispensable. Enduring years of struggle refines these qualities, forming a bedrock for success. The entertainment industry’s competitiveness demands resilience, emphasizing the importance of waiting for that pivotal opportunity. This patient approach is complemented by a continuous commitment to learning and skill development. As time unfolds, these accumulated skills, nurtured through years of training and experience, become a potent arsenal for seizing the spotlight. The actor’s journey is an intricate interplay of time, patience, and a relentless pursuit of improvement, ultimately converging into a narrative of triumph shaped by dedication and perseverance.

Rit Gautam, Cricketer

Discipline is a superpower that helps you work hard, follow through with your goals, and stay on track especially when it gets tough. It isn’t just your professional career’s demand but also a quality that makes your personal life rewarding and stable. Being a professional cricketer at a very young age forced discipline into me which gradually showed me how I was growing as a human being. It helped me to tackle challenges with ease, and with high emotional maturity.

As a professional cricketer, handling high-pressure situations and thriving in them is a strength that you must have. The ability to stay poised during an intense situation with high pressure is crucial because it enables individuals to maintain their composure and make rational yet effective decisions.

Sujal Shakya, Test Automation Engineer 

Communication is the lifeblood of relationships, the bridge that connects us to others, and the catalyst for growth and understanding. Professionally, I consider my strong communication skills to be a key strength. I excel in gathering information by communicating with concerned individuals, breaking barriers, and finding effective solutions, which has been evident in my previous roles where I successfully dug into each module of the application and documented it.

On a personal level, my ability to communicate and collaborate allows me to build positive relationships with people. At work, this skill helps me contribute to a positive work environment. My friends and family know me for my sense of humor. I know how to cheer people up and make them comfortable and that has always helped my friends and family seek me whenever they need to talk.

In an increasingly interconnected world, communication has become more critical than ever. It’s the key to unlocking our potential, both personally and professionally. By embracing the art of articulation, we can build stronger relationships, achieve shared goals, and contribute to a more harmonious and understanding world.

In the pursuit of personal growth and development, there’s often a virtue or habit that individuals aspire to cultivate. Whether it’s resilience, kindness, mindfulness, or any other quality, this intentional focus serves as a compass for navigating life’s journey. ApEx talked to three people about the specific virtues or habits they wish to cultivate and the underlying motivations behind their choices.

Prabesh Shrestha, 22

Resilience is like having a strong, flexible thread running through the tapestry of our lives. This thread helps us deal with tough situations, acting as a guide to navigate obstacles. Resilience is more than just surviving challenges. It’s about learning from them and emerging even stronger. It’s the inner power that allows us to bounce back from difficulties with determination and courage.

Imagine resilience as a compass that points us in the right direction during life’s ups and downs. Instead of just enduring problems, it enables us to adapt, grow, and find meaning in every twist and turn of our journey. Building resilience is a bit like discovering our inner superpower. It involves learning from our experiences, gaining wisdom, and finding significance in every part of our lives.

So, when we face challenges, resilience encourages us to approach them with a positive attitude. It’s like a tool that helps us not only survive but thrive, growing wiser with each obstacle we overcome. 

Shreeya Shakya, 22 

Aspiring to cultivate emotional well-being involves a journey of self-discovery and self-compassion. It’s akin to developing a deep understanding of oneself and extending kindness to one’s own feelings. Taking steps towards emotional well-being includes adopting strategies to effectively manage stress and navigate challenges, such as incorporating mindfulness practices into daily life.

Building and nurturing positive relationships become integral to this pursuit. Having a supportive network where one can freely express emotions and share moments of joy contributes significantly to emotional well-being. This involves not only communicating during tough times but also celebrating good ones together.

Prioritizing mental and emotional health in decision-making is a crucial aspect of fostering emotional well-being. This might involve making choices that align with personal values, setting boundaries, and recognizing when self-care is necessary. By consciously making these choices, individuals create a foundation for a happier and more balanced life, where emotional well-being becomes a central pillar supporting overall health and fulfillment.

Anjila Bhattarai, 21

The one virtue I wish to cultivate in life is kindness. Every time I go to Pashupatinath temple, mostly to see the aarati, I end up witnessing cremations as well. Just like that, people are gone. But it’s so surprising to me that despite the fragility of life, we don’t stop pointlessly competing and complaining. People are killing one another because of hunger, and abuse of power and authority. The greediness, jealousy, and pride we carry are nothing but an illusion of our minds that nurtures our ego.

It’s very important for us to spread a little bit of kindness whenever possible as we never know what the other person is going through. Practicing kindness is good for your mental well-being too. Death is the ultimate truth and so it’s important to live well. And if you can be responsible for someone else’s smiles or happiness, there is nothing better than that. For that reason, I’d like to choose kindness over everything else. I would also want to be talked about and remembered as someone who was nice to people and animals as well.

Muhammad Ali is believed to have said that service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on earth. This statement really hits home with me and I want to live by it.

Founded 15 years ago with an unwavering commitment to the welfare of stray animals in Nepal, Oxsa Nepal has emerged as a compassionate non-profit organization dedicated to providing food, shelter, and healthcare to the vulnerable canines of Jwagal, Lalitpur. Beyond its vital street interventions, Oxsa Nepal has transformed its home into a haven for over 50 dogs, cats, and birds, offering a sanctuary for these voiceless creatures. At the heart of this altruistic endeavor is Raina Byanjankar, the founder of Oxsa Nepal, who inherited a legacy of compassion from her parents. Byanjankar spoke to Evana Manandhar from ApEx about the state of animal welfare in Nepal. 

Can you shed light on the state of animal welfare in Nepal?

The state of animal welfare in our country is influenced by a combination of cultural attitudes, government policies, enforcement of animal protection laws, economic conditions, and the active participation of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) dedicated to animal welfare. Cultural beliefs and practices shape how animals are perceived and treated, impacting the level of care they receive. Government policies, including the existence and effectiveness of animal welfare regulations, set the foundation for ethical treatment. The enforcement of these laws is crucial, ensuring that they translate into tangible protection for animals.

Economic conditions play a role, as the availability of resources affects the ability to invest in and prioritize animal welfare initiatives. The presence and effectiveness of NGOs are pivotal, as they often act as advocates, educators, and implementers of initiatives that contribute to improved animal welfare. In essence, achieving a positive state of animal welfare necessitates a holistic approach, addressing these interconnected factors through collaboration between government entities, NGOs, and the wider community. 

What makes working in the animal welfare sector challenging in Nepal?

There is a lack of strict animal welfare laws, making animals vulnerable to mistreatment. Strengthening and rigorously enforcing comprehensive legislation is imperative. Traditional practices, deeply ingrained in the culture, don’t necessarily align with modern animal welfare standards, necessitating a delicate balance between cultural preservation and humane treatment. 

Inadequate enforcement of existing laws worsens the problems, emphasizing the need for improved mechanisms and training for law enforcement personnel. In rural areas, where agriculture and animal husbandry prevail, there are challenges such as insufficient veterinary care and shelter for livestock. Solutions lie in promoting sustainable and humane farming practices, coupled with educational initiatives and enhanced veterinary services. Wildlife, rich in biodiversity, faces threats from habitat loss and poaching, necessitating robust conservation efforts. Moreover, animals in Nepal are susceptible to the impacts of natural disasters. Disaster preparedness plans must include provisions for animal evacuation and care.

Are there specific laws that address the rights of animals in the country?

Nepal has several laws addressing the protection and rights of animals. These include the Animal Slaughterhouse and Meat Inspection Act, focusing on regulating slaughterhouses and ensuring meat inspection, including provisions for the humane treatment of animals during slaughter. The Transport of Animals and Birds Act governs the transportation of animals, covering aspects such as adequate space and proper handling. The National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act is specific to the protection of wildlife and conservation of natural habitats, including regulations against hunting and poaching. There are quite a few laws outlining the general principles for the humane treatment of animals but the effectiveness of these laws depends on factors like enforcement mechanisms and public awareness.

How can the public be made aware of the importance of animal welfare and rights?

Educational strategies play a pivotal role in making the public aware of the significance of animal welfare and rights. One effective approach involves integrating animal welfare topics into the school curriculum. Public awareness campaigns by utilizing diverse media platforms to disseminate information, dispel myths, and encourage responsible behavior towards animals are also important.

Workshops, seminars, and community outreach programs can provide direct interaction and address local concerns, fostering a deeper understanding of ethical animal treatment. Online resources, webinars, and partnerships with educational institutions can broaden the reach of educational initiatives. Animal-assisted therapy programs offer practical demonstrations of the positive impact of human-animal interactions.

What are some of the ways in which people can support or contribute to the animal rights movement?

Financial support for reputable local animal welfare organizations is crucial, providing essential resources for rescue operations, medical care, and advocacy efforts. Supporting well-established international organizations that work globally or specifically in Nepal amplifies the reach of contributions. Raising awareness through social media platforms and other communication channels can shed light on specific animal welfare issues.

Advocacy for legal reforms and participation in campaigns for stronger animal welfare laws are essential for sustained change. Collaboration with local organizations, offering skills or expertise, and exploring remote volunteering opportunities can provide valuable assistance. You can also support educational initiatives that promote responsible behavior towards animals or collaborate with veterinarians or veterinary organizations. There will be plenty that you can do. You can play a vital role in advancing the cause of animal rights in Nepal by leveraging your resources, networks, and influence.

If you could turn back time and offer a piece of wisdom to the younger version of yourself, what insights, lessons, or words of encouragement would you share? This question prompts introspection, inviting individuals to reflect on the experiences that shaped them and the invaluable lessons they’ve learned along the way. Evana Manandhar talked to three people and their responses provide a glimpse into the reservoir of wisdom that comes from retrospection, offering not only personal reflections but universal truths that transcend time.

Sushila Karki, 48

If I could offer advice to my younger self, I would say, cherish the small moments, for they are the ones that make life beautiful. In the midst of the chaos of raising a family, take time to enjoy the laughter of your children, the warmth of their hugs, and the joy in their innocent eyes. While it’s important to plan for the future, don’t forget to relish the present.

Embrace imperfections, both in yourself and in your children. Perfection isn’t real, but love is. Be patient, not just with them but with yourself. Parenting is a journey of constant learning, so forgive your mistakes and learn from them.

Build a strong support network. Surround yourself with people who lift you up, share your values, and offer a listening ear during challenging times. You don’t have to navigate motherhood alone.

Lastly, trust your instincts. You know your children better than anyone else. While advice is valuable, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to parenting. Your intuition, combined with love, will guide you through the highs and lows.

In the end, it’s not about having a perfect life but about creating a life full of love, understanding, and beautiful memories. So, take a deep breath, enjoy the journey, and know that you are doing an incredible job.

Rupesh Lama, 21

First, take a breath. You’re doing fine, and you’ve got so much ahead of you. Embrace the uncertainty, it’s where the magic happens. Don’t stress too much about having everything figured out. Life’s a journey, not a checklist.

Travel when you can. It doesn’t have to be far or extravagant, but exposing yourself to different cultures and perspectives will change you in ways you can’t imagine. So, save a bit of money, pack a bag, and go see the world. Don’t compare your journey to others. Social media can be deceiving, and everyone’s on his/her own unique path. Your worth isn’t determined by the number of likes on a post or what your peers are doing.

Learn to manage your finances. It’s not the most exciting thing to think about, but in the future, you will thank the present you for being responsible. Budgeting is your friend, and credit cards are a double-edged sword.

Lastly, be kind to yourself. You’re going to make mistakes, and that’s how you grow. Don’t be too hard on the person you’re becoming, you’re a work in progress. Enjoy this time of self-discovery and embrace the opportunities that come your way. You’ve got this.

Sami Shakya, 47

Reflecting on my 47 years of life experience, I’ve come to recognize the profound importance of certain principles that have shaped my journey. One key piece of advice I would offer to my younger self is to prioritize education and skills development.

Education forms the bedrock of knowledge while honing specific skills ensures relevance and competitiveness in an ever-evolving world. Understanding the competitive nature of the future, I would emphasize the need for a serious approach to certain aspects of life, especially regarding career and personal growth. Striking a balance between enjoying life’s moments and approaching key areas with a sense of gravity is crucial.

Moreover, the wisdom gained from learning through mistakes is invaluable, yet the gravity of certain missteps underscores the need for patience and the cultivation of strong decision-making capacities. Navigating the complexities of life requires a harmonious blend of passion, perseverance, and strategic thinking, traits that can significantly impact one’s journey toward a fulfilling and successful future. 

Rijan Maharjan, music producer

Dashain, the most prominent festival in Nepal, is deeply rooted in tradition and family values. It involves family reunions, feasts, and the exchange of new clothes and gifts. The Nakhtyaa feast, popular among the Newar community, brings families closer through card games, kite-flying, and quality time. Cleaning and decorating homes are essential customs, along with the worship of Goddess Durga. Swinging on decorated swings and temple visits add to the festive spirit. Preserving these traditions is crucial for younger generations to maintain their cultural identity. I believe it’s important to celebrate Dashain responsibly while cherishing its rich heritage.

Bibek Waiba Lama, singer

Dashain is a time of great cultural significance, and it’s wonderful to be a part of the celebrations through music. I enjoy doing household chores, and helping my family with things that need to be done around the house. Dashain is also the time when I get to connect with my audience on a deeper level, invoking emotions and nostalgia through the power of music. I get to narrate the festival’s deeper meanings, emphasizing the victory of good over evil, through my songs. My role as a singer during Dashain celebrations is not just about singing songs; it’s about being a cultural ambassador. I aim to evoke emotions and nostalgia, educate the audience about our cultural heritage, and create an immersive experience that brings the essence of Dashain to life. It’s a privilege and a responsibility that I love.

Shakshi Singh Bhandari, actress

The festival begins with a collective effort to clean and decorate our home, creating an atmosphere of purity and festivity. I actively engage in the ritual of preparing Jamara, meticulously caring for the barley seeds, and ensuring their growth during the festival. The most cherished moment is the tika ceremony. I also love singing traditional songs and dancing with friends during this time of the year. The essence of Dashain lies in family gatherings, where I bond with my loved ones, and relish in stories, laughter, and the scrumptious traditional meals that are an integral part of the celebration. Throughout these festivities, I keenly observe and participate in various rituals, respecting their significance. Whether it’s the solemnity of worship or the joy of community gatherings, Dashain is a time when I can wholeheartedly embrace my cultural roots and showcase the diversity of our traditions.

Are there any specific challenges you face in accomplishing your daily activities, and how do you overcome them? Everyone has a preferred method for handling challenges in their daily life. Evana Manandhar of ApEx interviewed three professionals to find out how they get things done.

Sichu Manandhar, Assistant-Operation Standards Department, Himalaya Airlines

In my daily activities, whenever I encounter difficulties or impediments, I view them as chances for growth and knowledge acquisition. One specific challenge I encounter is balancing multiple priorities effectively. To overcome this, I meticulously plan my tasks, set clear goals, and prioritize based on deadlines and importance. In order to facilitate effective teamwork and mutual support, I also keep open lines to interact with my coworkers. I also actively seek feedback so that I may improve my strategy and increase my effectiveness. Accepting challenges has improved my problem-solving abilities while also developing a proactive and adaptable mindset that has helped me complete a variety of activities successfully.

Prasanna Dhungel, Founder at Digital Everest Pvt Ltd

Effective time management is a key component of my daily routine as the founder of an IT firm who also works part-time as an A-level computer science teacher. It can be difficult to strike a balance between the rigors of running a business, which can sometimes feel like an endless sprint, and the accuracy necessary for fostering young brains through education. I’ve learnt how to use time and mind management strategies like being in the right mindset for a particular task. I am able to maximize productivity and have a loose sense of work-life balance because of this disciplined method.

A constant challenge for me is to keep up with technical advancements. As an IT startup founder and a tech enthusiast, I always remain updated with current information by taking online courses, going to conferences, and networking with others in the sector.

Though the daily challenges are formidable, the rewards of entrepreneurship and education are equally enriching. Effective time management, continuous learning, stress management, and personalized support are the cornerstones that enable me to thrive in these dual roles, making each day a journey of growth and achievement.

Saksham Shrestha, MCC Trainee Engineer, Himalaya Airlines

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I often used to find myself procrastinating over either a personal or professional goal and would struggle to achieve them. Learning to manage time has led me to overcome this habit resulting in drastic changes in my daily activities.

I usually spend my morning time preparing my schedule for the day and try my best to stick to it. This not only helps me to realize the amount of time I spend on accomplishing a certain goal, but also to prioritize the tasks. With this practice, simple tasks like completing a report at work or grocery shopping can be easily accomplished. Similarly, I have also learnt not to multitask at the same time. I focus on one task at a time and don’t jump into another one unless I complete it. This has also helped me achieve my daily goals in an unimaginable way. Therefore, time management has become a part of my daily routine that has helped me accomplish my daily activities.

Inflation and economic crises are two connected phenomena that can have a big impact on the economy. Inflation stunts the purchasing power of consumers, meaning transactions decline, and when goods and services are no longer bought or sold, the economy slows down. It affects consumers as well as business owners. As Nepal grapples with economic downturn, Evana Manandhar of ApEx talked with three business owners to know how they are faring during these trying times.

Ajab Prasad Gupta, 38

Inflation and the economic crisis have significantly affected my life. The rising prices of goods and services have made it harder for me to purchase the inventory I need for my business. For instance, the cost of raw materials and ingredients I use for my street food business has gone up, squeezing my profit margins. Moreover, many potential customers are feeling the pinch of the economic crisis, and they have less disposable income to spend on street food and other non-essential items. This has led to a decline in sales, making it challenging for small business owners like me to make ends meet. I’ve had to adapt by offering smaller portions or searching for cheaper suppliers, but it's been tough maintaining a steady income.

Ramila Manandhar, 45

The impact of the ongoing economic crisis has been felt by all, and my business is no exception. One of the most significant hurdles has been the sharp decline in demand and sales, leading to a noticeable dip in profits. Customers have been cautious with their spending, and the uncertainty surrounding the pandemic has made it difficult to predict market trends accurately.

Another critical issue we’ve faced is a decline in the quality of some suppliers, products, or services. The disruptions, first caused by the Covid-19 pandemic and now by the Russia-Ukraine war, have led to inconsistencies in the supply chain, affecting the overall quality and reliability of our products and services. Maintaining a high level of quality has become a constant struggle. While navigating these unprecedented challenges has been far from easy, it has also been an opportunity for growth and adaptation. The experience gained during these trying times has equipped my business with resilience and resourcefulness that will serve us well in the future.

Dinesh Shresthacharya, 53

Inflation and the economic crisis have had a significant impact on my life. The rising costs of goods and services have made it more expensive to restock my store, eroding my profit margins. Moreover, customers who are feeling the financial strain due to the economic crisis are spending less on non-essential items, leading to a decline in sales. On a personal level, the increased cost of living has made it challenging to manage my household expenses, including rent and utilities. It’s a constant struggle to adapt to these economic challenges and maintain a stable business while ensuring my own financial stability. Additionally, the uncertainty stemming from the economic crisis and inflation has made long-term planning for my business and personal life increasingly difficult. It’s challenging to predict how the market will evolve or when economic conditions might improve. This instability has created a sense of anxiety and stress, affecting both my work and personal well-being.