Turning Challenges into Opportunities and Nurturing Bhutanese Products– (Pioneers Mugwort-based Products)
Jeewan Baral’s entrepreneurial journey is an inspiring tale of resilience, innovation, and the power of community support. After completing his Master of Business Administration degree in Australia, Jeewan returned to his homeland in 2016 with a burning desire to start his own business. His initial venture in the travel industry faced unprecedented challenges with the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic.
However, adversity presented Jeewan with an opportunity to explore new business ideas, leading him to discover the potential of Mugwort, a natural resource abundant in Bhutan https://www.themugwortsolution.com/. With determination, support from the government and various organizations, and a passion for entrepreneurship, Jeewan successfully pivoted his business, creating a line of green therapy products.
The Struggle and Determination:
Jeewan’s entrepreneurial journey began with the establishment of a small travel company in Bhutan. Despite facing initial challenges such as limited capital and a lack of business experience, Jeewan poured his heart and soul into building his dream. “I spent countless hours researching tour routes, negotiating with suppliers, and marketing to potential customers,” he said, adding that the dedication and determination Jeewan demonstrated during these early stages set the foundation for his future endeavors.
The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic:
Just as Jeewan’s travel company started gaining momentum, the travel industry was brought to a standstill by the COVID-19 pandemic. Bhutan closed its borders to foreign tourists, forcing Jeewan to temporarily shut down his operations. “The pandemic presented a challenging and uncertain time for me, but it also provided me with an opportunity to reflect, research, and explore new avenues,” he said.
The Discovery of Mugwort:
During this period of forced closure, Jeewan stumbled upon information about Mugwort, a plant species abundantly growing in Bhutan. He discovered that Mugwort possessed numerous health benefits and could be used as the basis for a range of products. “Driven by curiosity and a desire to innovate, I decided to pivot the business model and venture into producing Mugwort-based products,” he said.
The Birth of a New Venture:
Jeewan’s decision to start a company centered around mugwort-based products was not made lightly. He spent months conducting extensive research, testing recipes, and sourcing reliable suppliers. “In late 2020, armed with my newfound knowledge and dedication, I launched my new venture,” he said, adding that his product line included moxa floss, moxa sticks, herbal compress massage balls, and Mugwort foot soaking bags. “Each product was carefully crafted to harness the healing properties of Mugwort,” he said.
Overcoming Challenges and Building Support:
Jeewan’s entrepreneurial journey has been far from easy, but he credits his growth and development to the challenges he has faced along the way. Recognizing the crucial role of support, Jeewan approached the Department of Industries for assistance in setting up his production unit.
The department provided him with a workspace at the Startup Center and facilitated funding through the Industrial Development Grant Scheme. The Ministry of Agriculture also supported Jeewan through the YERE Project, and as his business expanded, he received further aid from organizations such as the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and Employment, UNDP Bhutan, Loden Foundation, and the Ministry of Trade. The collaborative efforts of these entities provided Jeewan with the necessary training, funding, mentorship, and support for branding, packaging, and marketing.
The Power of Government and Nonprofit Support:
The assistance Jeewan received from various government departments and organizations played a pivotal role in the growth of his business. “The support and guidance I received instilled confidence in me, allowing me to persevere with my entrepreneurial vision,” he said, adding that these partnerships helped transform his small startup into a thriving business, enabling him to showcase the untapped potential of Bhutan’s natural resources.
Words of Wisdom for Young Entrepreneurs:
Jeewan Baral shares his wisdom with young entrepreneurs embarking on their own entrepreneurial journeys. He emphasizes the importance of, “persistence, learning from mistakes, and maintaining unwavering determination.”
Jeewan advises aspiring entrepreneurs to develop a solid business idea that addresses a genuine problem and to thoroughly research their target market. He stresses the significance of “building a supportive team, focusing on execution, and maintaining a deep passion for their chosen path”.
Jeewan Baral’s entrepreneurial journey exemplifies the spirit of resilience, adaptability, and innovation. From the challenges faced in the travel industry to the discovery of Mugwort and the successful launch of his green therapy products, Jeewan’s story is a testament to the power of entrepreneurship and the positive impact it can have on individuals, communities, and economies.
As an entrepreneur, Jeewan shared that he really want to acknowledge Entrepreneurship Development Institutes of India (EDII) for almost a month training – New Enterprise Creation and Skill Upgradation Programme for Bhutanese Youth on Impact Enterprise (Oct-31 – Nov 25) 2022.
“I am truly grateful for the comprehensive curriculum that covered various aspects of entrepreneurship, including business planning, market research, financial management, marketing strategies, and sustainable development practices,” he said, adding that the hands-on approach and interactive sessions allowed our youth to apply their learnings in real-world scenarios, encouraging innovation and critical thinking.
He also added that, “I would like to extend my sincerest thanks to the Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India for their unwavering commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and empowering the Bhutanese youth,” adding that the contributions of EDII have made a lasting impact on our community and will continue to shape the future of our nation.
About Team
In February 2022, four passionate individuals came together to establish The Mugwort Solution,https://www.themugwortsolution.com/ an organization dedicated to utilizing the abundant mugwort plants in Bhutan to create additional opportunities for farmers, promote the use of natural products, and provide potential remedies for various diseases. This visionary team is committed to transforming traditional practices and modernizing the application of mugwort for a healthier and more sustainable lifestyle.
Leading the way is Jeewan Baral, the Founder and Marketing Specialist of The Mugwort Solution. With a Master’s in Business Administration, Jeewan brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his role. His responsibilities encompass developing and executing the company’s marketing strategies, building brand awareness, forging new partnerships, and overseeing all promotional materials. Jeewan’s global outlook and expertise in international markets play a crucial role in expanding The Mugwort Solution’s https://www.themugwortsolution.com/reach beyond domestic borders.
Mrs. Juni Kharka, another founder, contributes her expertise in accountancy and finance to the organization. With a Master’s in Professional Accounting, Juni is responsible for managing the financial aspects of The Mugwort Solution. Her goal is to improve the livelihoods of rural farmers in Bhutan by leveraging mugwort’s potential as a source of income. Juni’s dedication and financial acumen are instrumental in ensuring the organization’s success and making a positive impact on the lives of rural communities.
Mr. Tshering Nidup, the third founder, is a driven individual committed to innovating and modernizing the use of mugwort. With a background in research, Mr. Nidup has extensively explored the plant’s potential and its various applications. He plays a pivotal role in the research and development of new mugwort-related products, showcasing the plant’s versatility and efficacy. Mr. Nidup’s pioneering work has revealed that mugwort is more than a folk remedy—it possesses immense potential in promoting health and wellness.
Completing the quartet of visionaries is Ugyen Dorji, who joined forces with the founders to create employment opportunities for local communities. Ugyen’s mission revolves around sourcing the highest-quality raw materials and natural herbs from farmers. Through his efforts, The Mugwort Solution has become a leading supplier of natural herbs and raw materials throughout Bhutan. Ugyen’s dedicated work in procuring quality ingredients directly from small-scale farmers has not only contributed to the success of The Mugwort Solution but has also provided valuable employment opportunities to local communities.
Together, these four individuals embody the spirit of The Mugwort Solution https://www.themugwortsolution.com/. Their collective vision and unwavering dedication to modernizing traditional practices and harnessing the potential of mugwort have been the driving force behind the organization’s success. By incorporating innovation, advanced research, and a commitment to sustainable practices, The Mugwort Solution is revolutionizing the use of mugwort and empowering farmers, while offering effective and reliable natural products for a healthier and more fulfilling lifestyle.
The Mugwort Solution stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, passion, and the transformative potential of natural resources. As they continue their journey, their impact on farmers, communities, and individuals seeking healthier alternatives will undoubtedly grow, creating a brighter future for all.
By Kinley Yonten
