Every year, on October 23, we celebrate the International Day of the Snow Leopard. 7 years ago, the Bishkek Declaration on the Conservation of the Snow Leopard was adopted. As a result, 12 nations are committed to ensuring the well-being of snow leopards. Dwelling near snowy peaks, the snow leopard serves as an indicator of the "health" of mountain ecosystems.

Unfortunately, at present, the snow leopard is on the verge of extinction and requires, as part of biodiversity, close attention from the international community for its conservation. UN Convention on Biological Diversity notes the need for action “in developing educational and public awareness programmes, with respect to conservation and sustainable use of biological diversity”.

Snow leopard has a sacred meaning in the history and traditions of Asian peoples, being a symbol of freedom and independence. History knows great personalities, whose names are proudly associated with animals and plants. Take for example Barsbek Kagan, the ruler of the Yenisei Kyrgyz in which “bars” means snow leopard.

The influence of a name on a person’s fate has been known since long ago. We all know that a name is an integral part of a person, his or her "business card" in society. We all believe to a greater or lesser extent that a name reflects the character and aptitudes of its bearer, defines his or her world view and influences his or her relationship with the environment.

In this regard, we would like to know how people with names associated with "Snow Leopard" have evolved and whether they have become more environmentally conscious and committed to protecting and preserving snow leopards, flora and fauna in general.

To this end, as part of the International Snow Leopard Day, we launched a contest among owners of such names, which include the word “bars” ("snow leopard"). We appeal to the owners of such "bars" names to take part in the contest and share their history.

What is needed for this?

А. Think about how your "bars" name has influenced your life, how it has shaped your worldview and character, how it has influenced your attitude towards these unique animals - snow leopards,

Б. Tell us about it in your small video with 1-2 min length,

В. Share your post in social networks (Facebook and/or Instagram).

Conditions:

1.      post your video on Facebook or Instagram between October 23 and November 6 (inclusive), 2020.

2.      use hashtags #МенинАтымБарс, #МеняЗовутБарс, #MyNameIsBars and remember to tag @undpkg. To participate, the profile must be public.

3.      send a link to your video to mirlan.dyikanbaev@undp.org

On a competitive basis, we will select three winners - producers of the most creative videos, and give smartphones and gifts.

The results of the contest will be announced on November 10, 2020.

Join the contest, tell us about your name and share your story.