A Powerful Journey : From Upper Mustang to Leading Conservation in Nepal
Every month, Glocal Pvt Ltd hosts an inspiring event called Coca-Cola Presents Youth Dialogue. It is not just a talk show, it is a place where stories turn into motivation and experiences turn into lessons. Young minds gather to connect with passionate leaders who share their journeys, struggles, and the mindset that shaped them. This month, the event took place at Kathmandu Model College, Lalitpur, where the guest speaker was Dr Ghana S Gurung, the Country Representative of WWF Nepal. His life story touched every heart in the room, leaving the youth full of energy, hope, and inspiration.
From Mustang to Making a Mark
Dr Gurung began his session by sharing his humble beginnings in Upper Mustang, a remote and beautiful part of Nepal. He recalled how he had to travel all the way to Pokhara to appear in his SLC exams. Even as a child, his mind was curious and fearless. He shared a story from when he was in Grade 4. He once asked his teacher, “What is the biggest profession?” The teacher replied, “Doctor, Engineer, or CA.” He then asked again, “Is there anything even bigger?” The teacher responded, “PhD.” That moment planted a seed in his heart. He decided he would become a PhD holder one day. And he did. But the journey was not easy.
Obstacles and Determination
When Dr Gurung applied to study in New Zealand, he failed the English proficiency test. But instead of giving up, he promised himself that he would never let obstacles define his future. He studied harder, kept believing in himself, and eventually succeeded.
He reminded the audience, “If you want something from the bottom of your heart, nothing can stop you. Not failure, not fear.” He also challenged the common belief that people from remote places cannot reach high positions. Coming from Upper Mustang, he said, there were many doubts about his potential. But today, he proudly represents Nepal at the global level, proving that with strong will, anything is possible.
A Voice for Nature and Wildlife
As the Country Representative of WWF Nepal, Dr Gurung has been leading many important conservation projects. One of the most remarkable achievements under his leadership is doubling Nepal’s wild tiger population, a success story that the world praises. He spoke passionately about protecting Nepal’s forests, rivers, and animals. He explained that conservation is not just about saving tigers or rhinos, it is about saving ourselves and our future. He encouraged the youth to care for nature and take small steps like reducing waste, avoiding plastic, and respecting wildlife.
Engaging Q&A Session
The most exciting part of the event was the Q & A session, where students asked brilliant questions. One student asked, “How can we conserve tigers, and how is the Nepal government supporting it?” Dr Gurung answered that the Nepal government has worked together with WWF and other partners to protect tigers. This includes stopping poaching, creating safe habitats, involving local communities, and enforcing strong laws. Because of this teamwork, Nepal has been able to increase its tiger population instead of losing it.
Another student asked,
“How can we become familiar with wild animals and understand them better?”
Dr Gurung replied with a smile, “Spend time in nature. Visit national parks. Observe animals with respect. You do not need to be a scientist to understand wildlife. You just need curiosity and care.” He added that when we understand wild animals, we stop fearing them. Instead, we start protecting them.
A Message to the Youth
Dr Gurung ended the session with a powerful message:
- Believe in yourself even when no one else does
- Be consistent and honest in your efforts
- Use your common sense and do what is right
- Let your actions speak louder than your words
He said that success does not come from where you are born, but from how you choose to live. Every young person has the power to dream big, act boldly, and make a real difference. From the valleys of Mustang to global conservation leadership, Dr. Gurung’s powerful journey reminded us that self-belief, discipline, and hard work can shape our paths. His inspiring words ignited a spark in every young mind present – to dream big and protect our planet.
Coca Cola Presents Youth Dialogue once again proved that stories have the power to change lives. Dr Gurung’s journey showed us that the road to success is never straight or easy. But with belief, purpose, and courage, anything is possible.
