“What if one decision could redefine not just your dreams but your entire outlook on life?”
That’s exactly what Huawei’s Seeds for the Future 2024 program did for me. This journey was more than just an opportunity—it was a profound experience that combined technology, culture, and collaboration. Along the way, I discovered the power of innovation and connection, leaving me with lessons to cherish for a lifetime.
The Beginning: Planting the Seed
The journey started in May 2024, when Huawei announced applications for their prestigious Seeds for the Future program. As a final-year Computer Engineering student, I was drawn to the program’s promise of exploring technology’s potential to solve real-world problems.
By June 13, I was thrilled to find my name among 30 selected candidates for the first round. What followed was a series of exciting milestones:
- June 18: A UNESCO workshop on AI ethics introduced us to the importance of ethical considerations in innovation.
- June 21: Visits to the Ncell Data Center and Incessant Rain Studios revealed how Nepal’s tech landscape is evolving.
- July 1: The final interviews tested our technical and non-technical skills, pushing us to articulate our visions for the future.
Finally, on July 12, the results came in. Six of us were selected to represent Nepal in the regional rounds in China. Team Nepal—comprising Samriddhi Karki, Sadhana Panthi, Angelina Ghimire, Aashish Karki, Sameep Aryal, and me—was ready to take on the world stage.
A Celebration of Culture and Connection
Our adventure in China began with the Global Village event. Dressed in vibrant traditional attire, we showcased Nepal’s rich heritage through dance, food, and stories. The event highlighted the beauty of cultural exchange, as we connected with participants from diverse backgrounds.
This celebration set the tone for the next chapter of our journey—one defined by creativity, collaboration, and competition.
Tech4Good: Innovating for Impact
The Tech4Good competition was the heart of our journey. For weeks, we brainstormed and refined our project, which we called UltraCare.
Designed to address maternal health challenges in rural Nepal, UltraCare offered:
- Solar-powered functionality for areas with limited electricity.
- Local language integration for accessibility.
- AI algorithms for early detection of obstetric complications.
Our hard work paid off when we won the People’s Choice Award. It wasn’t just a victory for Team Nepal—it was a testament to how technology, when guided by empathy, can create meaningful change.
Beyond the Competition: Unforgettable Experiences
China offered more than just the competition. The experiences we shared broadened our horizons and left us inspired:
- The Donguan Campus Visit: Walking through this enchanting campus felt like stepping into a fairy tale. From the serene library to the architectural wonders, every moment was magical.
- The Cruise Day: Under a starlit sky, we celebrated the end of our journey with laughter, tears, and heartfelt goodbyes. It was a bittersweet moment that captured the essence of our shared adventure.
Lessons for Nepal: Inspired by China
Reflecting on my time in China, several key lessons stand out:
- Invest in Talent: Nepal can address its brain drain by creating environments where individuals feel inspired to stay and contribute.
- Foster Local Innovation: China’s success with platforms like Baidu and TikTok proves the potential of homegrown talent.
- Prioritize Visionary Leadership: Political stability and entrepreneurial support are crucial for progress.
Above all, the collective culture of prioritizing the greater good over individual gains was deeply inspiring.
A Heartfelt Thanks
The eight days in China were nothing short of life-changing. Huawei ensured we experienced the best of everything, from world-class hospitality to unmatched learning opportunities. Special thanks to Ashit Dai, whose unwavering support made our journey smoother and more enjoyable.
To Huawei, the Asia Pacific Digital Talent Summit, and everyone who made this possible: thank you. Seeds for the Future wasn’t just a program—it was a turning point in my life.
“The most beautiful journeys are not about the destinations but the transformations they inspire within you.”
This is not the end but the beginning of a new chapter, one filled with hope, innovation, and the determination to make a difference.
Priyanshu Sharma
Aspiring Technologist | Dreamer | Doer
