The opportunity to engage and collaborate with Japanese students was truly an exciting and enriching experience. From the initial virtual orientation to the in-person interactions, this program was filled with exchanging traditions, learning, and innovation.

Our journey began with a virtual orientation, where I met Mae, Koharu, and Yuki for the first time. We were all eager to learn about each other and even struggled a bit with getting our names right at first! As days passed, we began sharing insights into our respective communities, offering each other glimpses into both local and global perspectives of Nepal and Japan.

One of the most memorable aspects of this phase was learning about Japanese horror stories and common expressions. This experience sparked my love for the Japanese language, making me even more curious about their culture and traditions.

The real excitement unfolded as we eagerly waited to meet in person on the first day. A warm welcome awaited us with delightful snacks and origami gifts, setting a cheerful tone for the program. I must mention—I am still trying to master the art of balancing the ball from the origami set!

One of the unexpected but wonderful realizations was that neither I nor my Japanese friends had explored Newari cuisine before. This led us on an exploration of Patan, a city rich in history, culture, and flavors. The experience was nothing short of delicious!

Beyond food, the architectural wonders of Patan left me in awe. Observing how people in the past sculpted an entire temple from a single rock, with intricate designs carved into every tiny corner, was truly fascinating. It deepened my appreciation for Nepal’s artistic and cultural heritage.

The heart of the exchange program revolved around researching and understanding social enterprises. Our industry visit to Dochaa Nepal was an insightful experience, where we interacted with a passionate team dedicated to representing Nepalese identity through footwear.

Meeting the Co-founder and CEO was a privilege. Their kindness, open-mindedness, resilience, and encouragement inspired us all. The enterprise, run by three young co-founders, is not just about shoes—it is about telling stories, preserving culture, and empowering diverse communities, especially women and ethnic minorities.

An interaction with Co-Founder of Dochaa Shoes at their factory

This experience triggered my curiosity about how arts and crafts can be integrated into entrepreneurial ventures. As we brainstormed ideas on the whiteboard, I realized that innovation is about bridging creativity with purpose—a lesson that will stay with me.

This exchange program was more than just learning and visits—it was about blending cultures, and what better way than celebrating Holi together? The energy and excitement of my Japanese friends were infectious, so much so that I broke my personal streak of not celebrating Holi. Dancing and grooving to the music, immersed in colors, made me realize the immense value of curiosity and joy in learning, sharing, and innovating.

This exchange program was a journey of cultural immersion, collaborative learning, and personal growth. From understanding different traditions to engaging in meaningful discussions about social enterprises, every moment was valuable. More than anything, I take away the spirit of curiosity and excitement, which, I believe, is the key to unlocking new experiences, knowledge, and ideas for the future.

Naulo Koseli

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