Global lessons in sustainability: UniSQ student’s insights from Nepal

Much like the majestic peaks of the Himalayas, Katie Small’s study journey at the University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ) has been a climb towards new heights of knowledge and global experience.

The Bachelor of Business student recently travelled to Nepal, joining nine other students from three UniSQ programs –Bachelors of Business, Accounting, and Aviation – to gain hands-on experience in sustainable business practices.

Funded by the prestigious New Colombo Plan Mobility grant, the trip was designed as part of the final year business capstone course, MGT3303 The Equipped Graduate and led by UniSQ business academic Dr Anup Shrestha.

Students were given the opportunity to work on sustainable business solutions for real-world challenges by collaborating with a local social enterprise and co-build solutions that can help the business to adapt to environmental and social sustainability needs.

As well as studying part-time, Katie works as a Senior Agile Delivery Lead at Woolworths Group, where she was able to directly apply the lessons and experiences from her trip into her professional practice.

We caught up with Katie to talk more about her experience.

What was the most memorable experience from your time in Nepal, and why?

There are so many memorable experiences from Nepal – spending time at a monastery, being able to see a Kumari (a living goddess), and having the opportunity to experience the Everest Mountain Flight are just a few of the many incredible experiences.

Many memorable experiences were through interactions with Nepali people – one of the most memorable interactions was at Swayambhu stupa, also known as the monkey temple. There, I had an interaction with a young man who had lost both his legs in a farming accident. When he shared his story, I was filled with such emotion and appreciation of all the opportunities that I have been lucky enough to have access to. I only study part-time, but it reignited such a desire for me to apply myself more to my studies and to think about ways I can use my work experiences and degree once I graduate to be able to make a difference.

What inspired you to take part in the New Colombo Plan mobility trip to Nepal?

I was excited to be able to be a global citizen by being involved in the Business mobility trip to Nepal. I loved the idea of being able to provide support to The Green Intelligence, who partnered with us for the business case and to add meaningful value to the Nepali community. Of course, the opportunity to immerse myself in the Nepalese culture and experience the cuisine and the Himalayas inspired me to apply for the New Colombo Plan trip to Nepal.

How did working with organisations like The Green Intelligence and local farmers shape your understanding of sustainable business practices?

The Green Intelligence (GI) is a social enterprise founded in 2020 with the vision to increase biodiversity and land productivity, fostering a mutually beneficial relationship between humans and the rest of nature.

By working closely with GI and spending time in the field with local farmers, I was able to directly connect theoretical sustainable business practices with their real-world applications. This experience highlighted the importance of supporting local businesses and understanding the direct impact they have on their communities and the environment.

A real highlight was seeing how GI brings their mission and vision to life by balancing people, planet, and profit, all while positively impacting the local community. This experience helped me better understand the need for any business to find a similar balance.

You were able to meet the Australian Ambassador to Nepal! What insights did you gain from that experience?

Meeting the Australian Ambassador to Nepal provided invaluable insights into the diplomatic and economic ties between Australia and Nepal. I gained a deeper understanding of how international relations influence trade, education, and development programs. The Ambassador highlighted the importance of cultural awareness in business and in study, as well as the role of government in facilitating cultural exchange and education opportunities. This experience reinforced how diplomacy shapes global business environments and the opportunities available for collaboration between nations.

How did visiting the Australian Embassy in Kathmandu deepen your understanding of international trade and business relations?

Visiting the Australian Embassy in Kathmandu helped me understand the practical role of embassies in supporting Australian businesses operating overseas. The discussions emphasised the importance of trade policies, investment strategies, and the challenges businesses face in emerging markets like Nepal. I also learned about the embassy’s role in fostering sustainable development projects and how Australian businesses can engage in ethical trade practices that benefit local communities.

What challenges did you encounter during the trip, and how did you overcome them?

One of the main challenges I faced was adapting to a different cultural and business environment. Nepal operates on a relationship-based business culture, which differs from the more transactional approach common in Australia. Overcoming this required active listening, patience, and an open mind.

Another challenge was navigating group dynamics while travelling with a diverse range of students. With different personalities, expectations, and approaches to problem-solving, it was sometimes difficult to find common ground. I overcame this by practising clear communication, being adaptable, and focusing on collaboration rather than differences. Respecting each person’s perspective and maintaining a positive attitude helped create a more cohesive and enjoyable group experience.

How has this experience influenced your perspective on global business and sustainability?

This experience highlighted the importance of sustainable business practices, especially in developing economies like Nepal. I saw firsthand how businesses can have a direct impact on local communities, both positively and negatively. It reinforced the idea that companies must balance profitability with social and environmental responsibility. I also gained a greater appreciation for global supply chains and the role of ethical business practices in ensuring long-term success.

What advice would you give future UniSQ students considering a New Colombo Plan mobility trip?

My advice to future UniSQ students would be to embrace the experience with an open mind and a willingness to learn. Be prepared for cultural differences and approach them as opportunities for growth. Networking is key – connect with local businesses, embassy representatives, and fellow students to gain a well-rounded perspective. Lastly, take time to reflect on how the trip aligns with your career goals, as it can provide valuable insights and professional opportunities that may not be immediately obvious.

Participating in a mobility trip has given me a fresh perspective and a deeper appreciation for the opportunities available to us. Stepping outside my comfort zone has revealed my capabilities, fostering both personal and professional growth. This experience has ignited a newfound motivation to excel in my studies and broadened my horizons for life after graduation.

Learn more about our New Colombo Plan to see where it could take you.