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I was invited by CREASION Nepal to Khurkot, where, in collaboration with Golanjor Rural Municipality, they organized a plastic waste cleaning program. Together with Youth Cohorts, the Armed Police Force, Nepal Police, Traffic Police, and other stakeholders, they conducted a river cleanup campaign that prevented approximately 25 tons of plastic waste from entering the Sunkoshi river.

On May 31, more than 100 individuals in Khurkot, Golanjor-7, participated in the cleanup initiative organized by Project CAP (Collaborative Approach for Preventing Plastic Leakages in Rivers).

Ujjwal Upadhay, the team lead for Project CAP, shared with me, “We successfully relocated 24,575 kg of waste from the riverside to a designated landfill site using a loader, an excavator, and two trucks, each making 20 trips with a load capacity of 1.2 tons per trip. This effort not only opened a path to the new landfill site but also managed the remaining waste at the previous hotspot using standard waste management practices.”

Aanand Mishra, founder and president of CREASION, remarked, “We should not rely solely on external motivation or funding for crucial work like nature conservation. This commitment should come from within, ensuring a better future for Nepal. However, in some cases, such incentives are necessary for innovative solutions.”

Aasha Kumari Sah, a dedicated advocate for youth rights and education and the Bardibas Coordinator for the VFC-Youth Cohort, highlighted the importance of this initiative. “Our goal is to equip young people with the knowledge and tools they need to make a tangible difference in their communities. By fostering a culture of recycling, we can collectively work towards a cleaner, greener planet.”

I also spoke with Sujata Koirala, General Secretary of CREASION, representing the VFC-Youth Cohort initiative within Project CAP. She explained that through various campaigns, advocacy programs, and community outreach, they aim to instill a sense of responsibility and enthusiasm for recycling among the youth and the larger community.

Engaging with youths in the cleanup campaign was an inspiring experience that also motivated me greatly. Their energy and dedication to the cause were infectious, reinforcing the importance of community involvement in environmental conservation. Witnessing their commitment to making a tangible difference highlighted the power of collective action and the vital role young people play in shaping a sustainable future.

The LOD Club in Thamel, Kathmandu, hosted the exhilarating ‘Nepal Warriors Championship,’ an MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) event organized by Paradygm Sports Network. The event featured nine matches, including seven amateur and two professional bouts, drawing fighters from Nepal, India, and Australia. This marked the biggest edition of the event. The first two were held at Tapout Fitness Nepal in Maharajgunj, Kathmandu.

The championship drew many spectators, creating a vibrant and electric atmosphere. Enthusiastic fans and curious onlookers filled the venue, eager to witness the intense competition.

The highlight of the evening came in the form of professional matches. In the eighth match, Shahil Khatri of Nepal triumphed over Bishal Shahu of India, showcasing his superior skill and strategy. The final match saw another victory for Nepal, with Rabindra Dhant defeating Australia’s Korey Sutcliffee, further energizing the home crowd.

The amateur fights provided a platform for emerging talent, with fighters displaying impressive skill and determination. “There’s a lot of scope for growth in Nepal’s MMA scene. But we need better opportunities and sponsorships,” says Dhant. 

Paradygm Sports Network’s successful organization of the Nepal Warriors Championship highlighted the sport’s expanding reach and the talent within Nepal. The event demonstrated the importance of supporting local athletes to elevate their presence in the global MMA arena.

The Miss Pink Beauty Pageant Nepal, a vibrant celebration of diversity and inclusion, was recently held at the Rastriya Nachghar in Jamal on May 16. Organized by the Blue Diamond Society, this event marked the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Interphobia, Transphobia, and Aphobia, highlighting the ongoing fight for transgender and LGBTIQA+ rights in Nepal.

The pageant was a stunning display of talent and grace as transgender women took to the runway, showcasing their beauty and resilience. Participants, adorned in exquisite attire, graced the stage with performances that captivated the audience.

The pageant is more than just a beauty contest. It’s a crucial platform for transgender women to express their identity and advocate for their rights. The Blue Diamond Society's efforts in organizing this event underscore the importance of visibility and representation for transgender individuals in society. 

The pageant not only celebrates the beauty and talent of transgender women but also fosters a sense of community and belonging.

Anmol Rai was the winner, her poise and charisma earning her the coveted title. Sarosy Neupane was the first runner-up, while Aarohi Basnet secured the second runner-up position, both demonstrating exceptional charm and confidence.

As the newly crowned Miss Pink, Rai’s journey is set to inspire many within and beyond the LGBTIQA+ community, encouraging a more inclusive and accepting society. The event marks a significant step forward in the ongoing struggle for transgender rights and recognition in Nepal.

As the whistle blew and the green flags were waved near the start line outside the building of United Traders Syndicate Pvt Ltd, distributor of Toyota in Chabahil, 55 women who were seated in the driving seat cheerfully drove their cars along with their navigators. These women were there to participate in the Toyota Women’s Rally organized by United Traders Syndicate Pvt Ltd to celebrate women’s achievement in motorsports and promote safe driving.

As the checkered flag waved at the Gokarna Forest Resort the women were welcomed with a garland for completing the rally. The women had reached the resort after completing the 30 km distance that took the route of United Traders Syndicate building, Narayan Gopal Chowk, Bhatbhateni Temple, Jamal, Newroad, Bhadrakali Temple, Tripureshwor, Baneshwor, Tinkune, Airport, Gaushala, Chabahil Jorpati and Gokarna Forest Resort.  

Rajyalaxmi Shakya, bagged the first position and won Rs 50,000 cash, trophy and gift hampers. Rinchen Lama came in second and was awarded a purse of Rs 30,000, trophy and gift hampers. Similarly, Swastika Maharjan won the third prize with Rs 20,000 cash, trophy and gift hampers.

The winners were selected on the basis of fulfilling the criteria such as time limit, road safety standards and compliance with the traffic rules. The rally was judged by the officials of Nepal Automobiles’ Association (NASA).

Since its inception in 2004, the Toyota Women’s Rally in Nepal has been a beacon of progress—-celebrating women’s achievement in motorsports. It stands as a testament to breaking stereotypes and fueling inspiration in the country.

“The objective of organizing the event is to acknowledge the achievements of women. We see the great confidence, the willingness, the entrepreneurship of the women who are here and this is what we want the world to know,” said Ritu Singh Vaidya, managing director of UTS.

“I participated in the 2011 rally too and finished in a good spot. The event is more about women participation and empowerment. I believe women should not just compete in women-centric competitions. They should compete with men too. It is good to see the growth of women drivers. I loved the event,” said Saguna Shah, one of the participants.