By Akanchha Joshi, Global Shapers Kathmandu Hub
The Annual Meeting of the New Champions (AMNC) is the World Economic Forum’s flagship event for emerging economies and innovation. Held this year in Tianjin, China, it brought together over 1,500 leaders from around the world, including innovators, entrepreneurs, policymakers, and changemakers to explore how we can shape a more inclusive, sustainable future through entrepreneurship and technology.
I had the privilege of attending AMNC 2025 as one of 60 Global Shapers selected globally, and I still feel like I’m processing everything I experienced. Over three packed days, we dove into conversations on everything from AI and manufacturing to food systems and gamifying financial education. These weren’t just theoretical debates; there was a strong sense of urgency in every room. Leaders weren’t just imagining the future but actively building it.
As I sat in sessions about integrating AI into economies or reshaping education systems, one question kept surfacing for me: What does this mean for Nepal? How do we move forward in a way that works for our context, without copying models that don’t fit? It pushed me to think more deeply about the assets we already have which is our sense of community and how can we build from that.
But what made this experience truly special wasn’t just the ideas, it was the people. I met brilliant individuals working across sectors, all driven by a shared purpose: to create meaningful change. The late-night conversations, spontaneous collaborations, and the quiet moments of mutual understanding reminded me that we don’t have to do this work alone. Collaboration is not just helpful, it is essential.
I am returning to Nepal with fresh energy and a broader perspective. I’m deeply grateful to the Global Shapers Community and the World Economic Forum for the opportunity and the platform. It was a powerful reminder of what becomes possible when you bring thoughtful, committed people together in one room and now, the real work begins back home.
