Cover Bhutan to host its inaugural Innovation Forum in October
Bhutan to host its inaugural Innovation Forum in October
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Set in Paro, Bhutan, the upcoming forum will bring together over 80 global thought leaders
In December 2023, the Kingdom of Bhutan announced its latest concept, Gelephu Mindfulness City. Set to be the world’s “modern Buddhist lifestyle destination” for spirituality, wellness and rejuvenation, the city will be founded on Bhutanese values and the kingdom’s Gross National Happiness philosophy. His Majesty King Jigme shares that the city hopes to “foster conscious and sustainable businesses”.
Hoping to generate ideas and chart pathways for this ambitious vision, the kingdom has introduced the inaugural Bhutan Innovation Forum. A first of its kind, the Forum will take place from October 1 to 3 at Dungkar Dzong in Paro. This event brings together thought leaders from around the globe, including scientists, philosophers and investors to explore the intersections between mindfulness, innovation, entrepreneurship and sustainability.
In case you missed it: Unveiling Bhutan: 5 things you may not know about this Himalayan Kingdom
Above Dungkar Dzong in Paro, Bhutan
Dungkar Dzong in Paro, Bhutan
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Over 80 distinguished speakers will discuss diverse topics ranging from leveraging blockchain for knowledge economies to integrating mindfulness into education and leadership. Some speakers include co-founder and chief executive officer of Snap Inc Evan Spiegel; member of the UK House of Lords Nicholas Stern; and economist and Nobel laureate Joseph R Stiglitz.
Stiglitz highlights the transformative potential of the Forum. He shares: “The Bhutan Innovation Forum could redefine society’s most critical asset—our collective learning capabilities. It’s poised to cultivate human capital and build a learning society, all while remaining true to Bhutan’s commitments to mindfulness and collective well-being.” On top of keynote speakers, the forum will also offer dynamic workshops, fireside conversations, networking sessions and more.
One of the event’s keynote speakers, Spiegel shares: “I’m honoured to join the inaugural Innovation Forum in Bhutan, inspired by His Majesty’s vision for nurturing the next generation of entrepreneurs and innovators. I’m excited to discuss how mindfulness can create space for innovation and how technology can play a supportive role in this process.”
Tickets for the Bhutan Innovation Forum are available on its official website.
Credits
Images: Department of Tourism, Bhutan
Amanda Goh was the former senior writer for Tatler Singapore.
