Interview with Entrepreneurs in Mongar

Episode 1: Tashi Dorji – Preserving Bhutanese Handicrafts Q: Can you tell us about your journey as an entrepreneur in Mongar? Tashi Dorji: Certainly! I’ve always been fascinated by Bhutanese handicrafts, especially the intricate wood carvings and traditional paintings. My journey began with a desire to preserve these art forms and make them accessible to both locals and tourists. Starting a small shop in Mongar allowed me to showcase these cultural treasures and support local artisans. Q: What challenges have you faced in running your business? Tashi Dorji: One of the main challenges has been finding skilled artisans willing to pass on their knowledge to the next generation. It’s essential to maintain the authenticity and quality of our products while adapting to modern market demands. Additionally, logistics and reaching a broader audience beyond Mongar have been ongoing challenges. Q: How do you see the future of Bhutanese handicrafts in the global market? Tashi Dorji: I believe there’s a growing appreciation for handmade, culturally rich products globally. Bhutanese handicrafts have a unique appeal due to their craftsmanship and spiritual significance. By leveraging online platforms and collaborations with international partners, we can showcase our heritage on a global stage while ensuring fair wages and sustainable practices. Episode 2: Sonam Wangchuk – Promoting Sustainable Agriculture Q: What inspired you to start your sustainable agriculture initiative? Sonam Wangchuk: Growing up in Mongar, I witnessed the importance of agriculture in our community and the challenges farmers faced. Inspired by sustainable farming practices, I established an initiative to promote organic farming methods and improve crop yields while preserving our environment. Q: How has your initiative impacted the local community? Sonam Wangchuk: Our initiative has empowered local farmers with training in organic farming techniques and access to quality seeds and resources. By promoting sustainable agriculture, we’ve enhanced food security, reduced reliance on chemical inputs, and provided a platform for farmers to access fair markets for their produce. Q: What are your future goals for sustainable agriculture in Mongar? Sonam Wangchuk: Looking ahead, I aim to expand our outreach to more villages in Mongar and collaborate with educational institutions to incorporate sustainable agriculture into the curriculum. Ultimately, I envision a community where agriculture is not only sustainable but also economically viable and environmentally responsible. Conclusion Through these insightful interviews, we’ve gained a glimpse into the entrepreneurial spirit thriving in Mongar. From preserving traditional handicrafts to promoting sustainable agriculture, these entrepreneurs are not only driving economic growth but also preserving cultural heritage and fostering community development. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories and interviews with entrepreneurs who are making a difference in Mongar and beyond. Stay Connected: Follow us on social media for updates and more inspiring stories!