Coca-Cola Nepal concludes Saksham 2.0 Mentorship Program

KATHMANDU, AUGUST 27: Coca-Cola, in collaboration with Atelier Platform, has recently concluded the "Saksham 2.0 Young Women Entrepreneurs Accelerator and Mentorship Program." This initiative is a significant part of Coca-Cola Nepal's Women Empowerment Program, Saksham, which aims to provide comprehensive support and guidance to women-led startups and potential ventures in Nepal.

The program received applications from over 1000 women entrepreneurs from Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan districts. Among the applicants, 8 finalists were chosen based on the uniqueness of their concepts and the potential for the success of their ideas. The selected finalists are as follows: Ms. Brinda Dewan from Kehikrafts, Ms. Menuka Gurung from Duluwa Outdoors, Ms. Prakriti Basyal from South and Southeast Project, Ms. Rashi Maharjan from Learners Room, Ms. Rozina Baral from Searched, Ms. Sarala Maharjan from Sakal Naturo Multi-Purpose Cleaner, Ms. Shanti Rai from Greenspace Nepal, and Ms. Yaju Maharjan from Swachha Mahinawari.

Mrs. Ritu Gurung, the Founder of Atelier Platform, expressed her satisfaction with the program, highlighting that it offers young female entrepreneurs the opportunity to turn their aspirations into reality rather than merely dreaming about them.

The Saksham Training Program concluded on August 18th, 2023, at Maya Manor Boutique Hotel in Kathmandu. The finalists presented their innovative concepts and business plans to a distinguished jury comprising accomplished professionals. The judging panel included Ms. Prasanna Basnet, Founder of Cotton Mill Nepal; Ms. Sneh Rajbhandari, Public Affairs, Communication, and Sustainability Director at Coca-Cola Beverages Nepal; and Ms. Trishagni Shakya, Executive Director of KGH group.

After a thorough evaluation by the judges, the winners were announced. Ms. Menuka Gurung from Duluwa Outdoors, Ms. Rashi Maharjan from Learner's Room, and Ms. Sarala Maharjan from Sakal Naturo Multi-Purpose Cleaner received a monetary reward of NPR 100,000 each. The top three winners were granted equal financial support to further their initiatives and bring them closer to fruition.

Mr. Deepak Senthil Nath, Managing Director of Bottlers Nepal Limited, highlighted the program's alignment with their commitment to promote women's entrepreneurship and contribute to sustainable growth in Nepal. He emphasized that empowering female entrepreneurs is crucial for holistic community and economic development.