September 22, Kathmandu
The Global Shapers Community Kathmandu (GSCK), in collaboration with the GRAPE Project, concluded its 9-month-long GRAPE project with its fourth and final Global Talk Series on Climate Adapted Farming: Adapting Agriculture to Changing Climates on Friday. The event brought together more than 100 changemakers, policymakers, and community leaders to address one of the most urgent questions of our time—how can agriculture in Nepal adapt to our rapidly changing climate?
This series highlighted the importance of localized solutions for global problems, with speakers like Alisha Madhavi Magar, Founder and Chairperson of Himalaya Agroecology, Jill Leaness, Global Youth Programs Director at The Climate Reality Project; Jennifer Fei, Senior Associate for the Global Shapers Program; the session delved into the practical steps needed for sustainable, climate-adapted farming. The event also launched the Impact Paper documenting the outcomes of the whole project.
Jennifer Fei emphasized the importance of collective responsibility in addressing climate change. She said, “Reducing emissions means ending the fossil fuel era that got us here and accelerating a just transition to clean energy, which will create millions of jobs and open the door to a better life for us all.”
Her call to action highlighted the role of public-private partnerships (PPP) in financing a just transition, noting that sustainable practices like regenerative agriculture can support farmers while reducing greenhouse gases.
Jill Leaness delivered an inspiring message to the youth in attendance, reminding them of the power of individual action.
“You don’t need to be an expert to contribute to climate action. We all must play our part—small efforts can lead to significant change,” she said, adding, “Even university students can fight greenwashing and push for more transparent, impactful solutions.”
Meanwhile, Alisha Madhavi Magar shared insights from her grassroots work at Himalaya Agroecology, where they’re leveraging nature-based solutions to empower rural farmers in Nepal.
“By promoting bio-fertilizers and empowering farmers with accessible, data-driven tools, we’re not just enhancing food nutrients; we’re building a resilient future,” said Magar.
In closing, Aakash Silpakar, Project Manager of the GRAPE project for the GSCK project left the audience with a vision of hope and possibility.
“Imagine 100, even thousands, of small businesses rooted in sustainable agriculture, creating jobs and fostering resilient communities across Nepal. This is not just a project; it’s a movement,” said Silpakar.
