KATHMANDU: Fashion enthusiasts, young entrepreneurs and the media got an opportunity to interact with fashion designer from Nepal whose creation was adorned by none other than the first lady of US Michelle Obama. Designer Prabal Gurung, who successfully launched his own line ‘Prabal Gurung’ in 2009 after five years as Design Director in New York-based fashion house Bill Blass, was the guest speaker at an interaction organised here by Entrepreneurs for Nepal today. Introducing him, Ambica Shrestha, President Dwarika’s Group of Hotels and Resorts, encouraged those present saying, “I know you are fed up with the darkness around, but all I want to say is move ahead and let these things not stop you from getting what you want — go ahead and be successful like this guy.” Starting on a rather modest note, Gurung said, “I have just started and I don’t know if I am equipped enough to give advice to young entrepreneurs, but what I can do is share my story.” He gave credit to his family for always being an immense support in his life, saying, “What I am as a person is all because of my family. I’m blessed to have an encouraging family who believed in me.” Advocating a pro-creativity approach to education, he said, “I am a very pro-fine art and pro-creativity person, so I hope in the future, schools out here will also encourage such creativity and not just method study.” Though based in New York, Gurung is in touch with the reality of Nepal. He said, “I know there are problems like load shedding, traffic, pollution... I have lived my life here. But stating the obvious is so boring. What we should focus on is how to make a change. That is what interests me. The biggest responsibility of ours is: ‘How are we going to give back to Nepal?’ I am very proud of my heritage and my country, so I make sure I mention Nepal in all my interviews. This is my contribution to my country.” Answering a question on the need of the hour of Nepali entrepreneurs, Gurung said, “One thing I would like to suggest to Nepali entrepreneurs is to start thinking globally and also take in the tradition of celebrating each other’s success. I am successful today means that doors are opening for other Nepalis.”