The Challenge:

In the lush yet vulnerable southwestern provinces of Bhutan, landslides and flash floods have not only disrupted lives but also hindered economic stability. Amidst this turmoil, the youth faced limited job opportunities and a bleak economic future, exacerbating their struggle to rebuild their lives and communities. Click here to verify

"The recurring disasters left us with little hope for a stable career in our own land," - Tashi (Local Youth)

The Solution:

Hope resurfaced when Kinley, an enterprising young local, learned about Gaza999’s Youth Entrepreneurship Programs. Designed to turn adversity into opportunity, these programs provided the tools and support necessary to foster a new generation of entrepreneurs ready to face the challenges of the modern economy.

"It was a revelation—realizing that we could create our own opportunities despite the odds," - Kinley (Aspiring Entrepreneur)

The Implementation:

The journey began with comprehensive entrepreneurship training tailored to the unique needs of young Bhutanese. Kinley, along with dozens of peers, attended workshops focusing on business planning, marketing, and financial management. Experienced mentors were matched with these budding entrepreneurs, guiding them through the nuances of business development.

Efforts were made to ensure access to essential resources, with partnerships formed with local financial institutions to provide seed funding. Business incubation centers sprang up, offering a supportive environment complete with office spaces and tech facilities.

Networking events were organized, connecting these young visionaries with potential markets and partners, thus paving the way for robust business ventures grounded in local needs and global standards.

"The support transformed us from novices to confident business owners, ready to contribute to our community’s resurgence," - Sonam (Program Participant)

The Impact:

The program catalyzed the creation of over 50 new businesses within a year, significantly reducing youth unemployment in the region and contributing to economic diversification. These enterprises brought innovation and stability, creating jobs and new services that were resilient in the face of environmental challenges.

"Our new businesses have not just survived; they have thrived, injecting new life into our economy," - Pema (Local Business Owner)

Lessons Learned:

• Tailored Entrepreneurial Education: Customizing training to address the specific challenges and opportunities in disaster-affected areas proved crucial.

• Mentorship and Community Support: Strong mentorship and community support were key in helping young entrepreneurs navigate the initial challenges of business ownership.

• Strategic Resource Allocation: Effective partnerships and resource allocation were essential to providing young entrepreneurs with the start-up capital and tools needed for success.

• Market Integration: Helping new businesses integrate into the local and global market from the outset ensured sustainability and growth.