RUZAIK FAROOK
COLOMBO — The Nepal Cultural and Heritage Centre under the Embassy of Nepal in Sri Lanka, in collaboration with International Youth Alliance for Peace (IYAP), successfully hosted “Voices at the Table-Nepal Edition: Beyond the Himalayas-Stories of Culture, Education & Connection” today, 28 October 2026 at the Embassy premises.
Chargé d’ Affaires Vijay Kumar Raut in his opening remarks said: “This Embassy building is not just an office. It is a Nepal, Sri Lanka. and today, I am so happy to see it filled with young voices.”
“When the world hears Nepal, they think of Sagarmatha/Mount Everest. But Nepal is much more than mountains. Nepal is a story of more than 120 castes and languages, and Multi-religions living together like a family.” “The strongest connection between Nepal and Sri Lanka is depending on people-to-people engagement. It is Lord Buddha-Born in Lumbini, Nepal, and his message has been preserved and protected by Sri Lanka for more than 2000 years.” “The Himalayas are high, but the dreams of youth are higher. Do not let borders limit your dreams.”
The program featured Ms. Siyathama Malvindi, South Asia Foundation Scholar, who shared her inspiring story “Three Years Away From Home”- her experiences of studying and living in Nepal, providing insights into Nepal’s culture, religion, people, education and opportunities as well as overall aspects of Nepal.
A special perspective from the Nepali community was shared by Ms. Hubika Joshi, a Nepali national married and living in Sri Lanka, on bridging two cultures and living as a family between Nepal and Sri Lanka.
Ms. ThiruKumar, President of IYAP, shared appreciation to the Embassy and the team, and emphasizing the power of youth voices in building peace.
The interactive “Voices at the Table: Open Conversation” and Q&A was moderated by IYAP and made the event truly meaningful, significant and impactful with enthusiastic participation from youth, students and members of the Nepali and Sri Lankan community.
Vote of Thanks was delivered by Sagar Bhandari, First Secretary, Embassy of Nepal. The Embassy sincerely thanks IYAP, all speakers and participants for making the Nepal Edition a great success.
Experience Nepal: People-Culture-Education- Opportunities
