Students who successfully complete their Fellowship program are welcomed to join the Alumni Network.
Program
Amrit Ghimire is a highly resourceful, flexible, innovative, and enthusiastic individual who possesses a considerable amount of knowledge regarding administrative and office procedures. He is currently working as Administrative and Finance Officer at the Siddhartha Social Development Center (SSDC), an organization that works in social, economic and climate related projects in Kapilvastu, Lumbini. Amrit is a quick learner who can absorb new ideas and is experienced, planning and organizing a wide range of administrative and marketing activities. Amrit is a well organized and an excellent team player with a proven ability to work proactively in a complex and busy office environment. Looking for a career advancement opportunity with a company that will challenge my problem-solving skills and allow me to further develop my potential.
Amrit is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Business Administration at the Indira Gandhi Open University, India.
Anita Panthi is a chemical engineer who has a strong passion for promoting sustainability and gender equality. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Chemical Engineering from Kathmandu University and is currently pursuing a Master’s in Business Administration from Herald College Kathmandu. Currently, she is employed as a chemical engineer in the Special Economic Zone Authority.
Throughout her career, Anita has worked with both government and private organizations to implement sustainable practices, using her expertise to help businesses reduce their environmental impact. She firmly believes that equal opportunities should be available to everyone and is dedicated to creating a more inclusive society.
Outside of her professional work, she is an ardent traveller who loves to explore new cultures and meet new people. She loves to hike and explore new places. Anita believes that personal connections and experiences are the best way to build understanding and empathy, she tries to engage with people from different backgrounds wherever she goes.
Born in Dang, Deukhuri, Bhumika Tharu currently resides in Kirtipur, Kathmandu. She has an interest in art, literature, music, and theatre. She has worked in some movies and plays, and also has experience working in radio dramas. With a preference for reading and writing poetry, she based her play ‘Pinjadaki Chari’ (A Little Bird in a Cage) on the poem ‘Ma Ek Kamalari’ and staged it at Sarwanam Theater in 2019, directed by French director Maxime Sechaud (Maxime Sisad).
She feels that the voice of the Tharu community is still suppressed and she wants to amplify the voice of her community. She wants to explore new places and study about her community. Bhumika has an interest in writing about the pain and stories of her community in the future, and is currently working in online media, covering news for the program ‘Naya Pusta’ by the Nepal Forum of Environmental Journalists (NEFEJ). She is also a founding member of the Tharu Authors Association of Nepal (TAN).
Bibek Pant is a final semester computer science student at the Far Western University- Nepal. Moved by the situation of computer science in his province, he has spent most of his time building and mentoring technical communities in his district- Kanchanpur. He believes that without proper exposure, we are limited in our understanding of possibilities and goals.
Bibek was once shy and introverted, but now he loves meeting and talking with new people. His friends know him as cheerful, funny, and sometimes absolutely fanatic for his crazy ideas. Over time, he has become more philosophical, empathetic, and kind. He loves the beauty of uncertainty and the unknown aspects of life. He believes that the universe is listening and cheering for us to take the next step that we sometimes question, overthink, doubt, and fear pursuing. His happiness lies in serving the highest purpose of life, which is greater than us. He loves The Shawshank Redemption, The Alchemist, and snowy mountains.
Buddhikala BK is a dedicated social mobilizer at the Indreni Rural Development Centre (IRDC) Nepal. The organization has a crucial mission of fostering sustainable development in rural communities of Nepal by effectively utilizing local resources, and employing locally developed technologies. Buddhikala is currently pursuing certification as a facilitator in entrepreneurship development from CTEVT (Council for Technical Education and Vocational Training).
Throughout her career, Buddhikala has primarily focused on conducting Livelihood and Entrepreneurship Development (LED) courses, specifically tailored for marginalized communities, with the aim of facilitating resource access and enhancing the commercial productivity of agri-livestock-based entrepreneurship. Recognizing the importance of her role, she has chosen to pursue the EDF course at CTEVT Level-2.
Working within a rights-based project, Buddhikala considers it crucial to raise awareness among project rights holders about their entitlements and ESC (Economic, Social, and Cultural) rights. Human rights, ESCR, and advocating for the voiceless are key concerns for her. Buddhikala is committed to fighting against injustice faced by marginalized communities, continuously seeking to enhance her advocacy practices. Participating in this fellowship program will undoubtedly be a significant milestone in her future career.
Deepika Paswan holds B.A./LL.B degrees from the esteemed Kathmandu School of Law, where she is presently engaged in pursuing an LLM degree. She has actively participated in notable campaigns such as ‘Women Rights Start at Home’ and has undertaken significant projects focused on areas like Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRHR), Child Marriage, and Quality Education. Additionally, Deepika has played a pivotal role in various legal literacy programs organized by the Kathmandu School of Law. Deeply committed to fostering positive change in society, she firmly believes in the power of personal agency, emphasizing that everyone bears the responsibility to contribute to constructive transformations. As a passionate advocate for the youth, she firmly asserts that it is their duty to take the lead in bringing about the changes they aspire to witness.
Dipa Rai was born and brought up in Doti, even though her family comes from Sankhuwasabha. She is a confident individual and a firm believer of women empowerment. She is a delightful worker with a broader dream of making a difference in society and in people’s lives. As a student of law, she firmly believes in and works tirelessly towards advocating for equality and justice. She is a Co-Founder of Panchi Nepal, a project with a mission to improve sexual and reproductive health in Nepal. She is also a human resource executive of an organization called G17 UAC Nepal, which advocates for Sustainable Development Goals. She also worked with Women LEAD Nepal to make positive change in society.
She is a package as she is kind, helpful, empathetic, but she will also question you and give suggestions, and firmly intervene, if required. She is a people-person and strongly stands with the idea that change is possible and every individual has the power to work towards it. You just need to ask her for help and she will give her everything to help become a Changemaker. Aside from her advocacy work, she brings joy to those around her. She is not just a passionate advocate but also a talented dancer
Heriz Bista is a passionate Computer Science student pursuing his undergraduate degree. He possesses a wide range of skills that go beyond just technical knowledge. He loves technology, business, entrepreneurship, and caring for the environment. Heriz has a proven track record of being a great leader and working well in teams, especially when organizing events for the community and his college.
Heriz is a big football fanatic, particularly of Manchester United. When they play, he gets excited, and it changes his mood completely. He also enjoys watching Formula 1 races, even though his favourite team does not always win. It does not stop him from watching every race and hoping for the best.
Something interesting about Heriz is that when it is midnight, he imagines being Edgar Alan Poe and tries to write poems. He sees himself as a great explorer, sometimes wondering if he could be even better than Marco Polo. Heriz likes to talk a lot, and you might think he talks too much, if you see him from far away. But if you get closer, you will realise that there is a reason for all his conversations, and you might even enjoy talking with him.
Heriz Bista’s story is a unique tapestry of creativity and wonder. As he continues his journey, he invites others to discover their colourful threads and embrace the beauty of their individuality.
Iesha Bhandari is a dynamic young woman who is carving a unique path for herself in today’s complex world. Hailing from Nepal, Iesha is a BA/LLB student at Nepal Law Campus, where she is striving to gain a comprehensive understanding of the law and its practical implications.
Her interests extend far beyond legal academia, however. As a member of various social organizations, including Naya Yuba Naya Soch Nepal and Youth Lead, Iesha has honed her leadership skills and developed a deep passion for community engagement. She has also interned with the Inter-Religious Dialogue Fellowship in 2023, where she has demonstrated her commitment to interfaith dialogue and understanding.
Iesha’s diverse interests also include politics, where she displays a keen interest in learning and unlearning to form her own opinions on the critical issues facing her society. When she is not immersed in her studies or community work, Iesha enjoys exploring the world around her. She has a particular interest in reading novels, travelling to new destinations, and engaging with people who have unique life experiences. She is a curious, driven, and ambitious individual who is poised to make a significant impact in her community and beyond.
Kamal KC is an enthusiastic youth who aspires to learn new things. He has a particular interest in subjects like mass communication, journalism, political science, mental health, spirituality, public relations, and digital media. He always strives to make a positive impact on society. Currently, he holds a proficiency certificate in health sciences and is studying journalism, mass communication, and political science in the second year at Tribhuvan University.
He is currently working as an Assistant Editor for ‘IT Samachar Dot Com,’ an online media platform, where he is involved in various aspects of information technology, entrepreneurship, startups, and digital literacy. From creating news, stories, features, interviews, and profiles to editing, he is actively engaged in his work.
MD Sadik Reza Siddiki is a 2nd year student of Bachelor in Public Health at the Central Department of Public Health, IOM. He is a sincere, motivated, energetic and passionate youth dedicated to bringing equity in health services and justice for the optimum positive well-being. He comes from Kaudena– a rural part of Sarlahi district, and is currently living in Sanepa, Lalitpur. He is currently engaged with different organisations including YUWA, Nepal Health Corps, and NPHSWS.
Sadik loves travelling, watching cricket, music, and reading biopics books. As a youth, he is excited to learn, acknowledge work with the diverse group of ALIN Solutions Fellowship, expertise for enhancing his skills and knowledge to grow as a professional.
Niraja Bhitrikoti is currently pursuing bachelor’s degree in Business Administration at Kathmandu University School of Management. Upon completion of her study, she envisions herself working in the field of organizational leadership, human resource management, and entrepreneurship.
In addition to her academic endeavours, she has participated in various training, workshops, and volunteer activities. She has taken a yearlong LEAD Course from Women LEAD, during which she led a 3-month school leadership program for Grade-9 students and a 2-week long advocacy project on mental health. She was chosen as one of the panellists for ‘With and For Girls’ to pick the Asia-Pacific region’s award recipient. She has previously worked as a junior associate for the resale store-Antidote Nepal- and has taught English for 2 years.
She believes that Experience is what you have at the end of the day; and actively looks for opportunities to learn and develop, both for herself and the people around her. Her concern for freedom is unwavering, and she aspires to live and help build a society where everyone can unapologetically be themselves. Apart from this, she loves reading fictional books and has a knack for writing stories that are compelling enough to inspire societal change.
Nirmala Chaudhary is currently a Board member of Freed Kamlari Development Forum (FKDF), an organisation that focuses on socio-economic and overall development of freed Tharu girls and young women from indentured slavery. She has been with the FWLD for four years now.
Nirmala is currently in high school in law, in Deukhuri, and is looking forward to expanding her knowledge and experience as much as possible. She is a good communicator, a quick learner and is able to work in a team. She considers herself honest, reliable and loyal with high professional standards.
Pratisha Joshi is currently pursuing her Masters Degree in Sociology from Central Department of Tribhuvan University. Having had a Bachelors degree in Physics, she had always aspired to work for social campaigns, research, and advocacy. Following her aspirations, she has been involved in various organizations, proving her worth.
Recently, she was a part of Stree Shakti Project (an initiation from the Fulbright Alumni Association of Nepal). Also, she completed her fellowship from YECAP (Youth Empowerment in Climate Action Platform), an Asia-Pacific venture from UNDP. She also actively worked for organizations like Raleigh International Nepal, Women LEAD Nepal, Movers Programme, and Smart Club. Besides, she is a public speaker and debater, serving as a Board Director for Debate Network Nepal (DNN). In the future, she wants to continue her work, reach more youths, and empower & collaborate with them in addressing a socio-economic cause including Climate Action and Economic Empowerment.
Radhika Pariyar holds a Master’s Degree in English from Tribhuwan University and is currently pursuing another Master’s Degree in Sociology at Tri-chandra College. With a deep-rooted passion for social development, Radhika is committed to achieving professional growth that promotes learning, creativity, and excellence. Her dedication to her field is evident in her role as a Programme Officer at ‘The Story Kitchen’, where she actively contributes to impactful programs. Her experience in the ‘Women, Peace, Security and Humanitarian (WPSH)’ sector has provided her with valuable insights and skills to make a positive difference in the lives of marginalized communities. Throughout her academic and professional journey, Radhika has developed a diverse set of skills, including expertise in project management, research, advocacy, and capacity building.
In addition to her academic and professional pursuits, she finds joy in engaging with personal interests. She enjoys reading books and doing research on social issues; she also writes op-eds on social issues. She firmly believes in empowering young people to raise their voices on various issues, nurturing a generation of changemakers who can create a more inclusive and just society.
Rahul Yadav is a 21 year-old BBA student at Shanker Dev Campus. As an oGX Stakeholder of AIESEC in Kathmandu, he demonstrated exceptional leadership skills. He has volunteered in various national events, showcasing his passion for community services. For the past four years, he has been imparting knowledge as a CMAT Instructor and has also been a motivational speaker. He has worked as an Event Manager in Midpoint Academy and Executive Director at AARNAV Educational Foundation. As the Head of Marketing and BD, he superheaded innovative campaigns for the Hult Prize at Shanker Dev Campus.
Through these roles, he has always advocated for the importance of providing young people with high-quality skills, especially related to entrepreneurship and leadership. In free time, he loves to recite poems and keep people aware through his articles.
Ram Sharan Raidas is the Executive Director of the Dalit Social Development Center (DSDC) in Kapilbastu, Lumbini. DSDC focuses on making aware and organizing dominated Dalit Community as well as women, adolescents, the poor and disadvantaged communities for their rights and in advising them to minimise their poverty. He has been working in the social sector for over 16 years now, in various capacities through numerous organisations. He has worked extensively on projects affecting Dalit, Women, Disability issues from the lens of human rights.
He has a Master’s degree in Sociology and a Bachelor’s degree in English from Kanpur University.
19-year old Rita Kumal resides in Gadhawa Rural municipality, Ward 6, Dang. She has completed her intermediate- level education and currently in pursuit of her career. Despite her young age, she possesses the drive and determination to accomplish her goals. Rita is a hard-working individual who continues in her academic pursuits.
Outside of her studies, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends. In the future, Rita hopes to become a successful professional and contribute positively towards her community.
As a dedicated student pursuing a degree in Public Health at the esteemed Central Department of Public Health, IOM, Simran KC is an excellent communicator, a skilled listener, and a sharp analytical thinker. She has a fervent passion for writing, which she masterfully uses to express her thoughts and ideas. Simran likes to maintain a daily journal and contributes regularly to blogs and articles, where her unique perspective and captivating prose are sure to intrigue any reader.
As a peer educator of Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) and a passionate youth activist for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), Simran has gained extensive experience working with youth-led initiatives and community engagement. With a track record of impactful contributions to organizations such as YOSHAN and YUWA, she is committed to effecting positive change in society.
Beyond her professional endeavors, she is an ardent volunteer and an active member of several community-based organizations, embodying the spirit of service and dedication to social causes. Her exemplary work ethic, commitment to excellence, and passion for social justice make her a promising leader in her field and a true inspiration to all those around her.
Smarika Pokhrel is a 20-year old college student currently pursuing Bachelors of Social Sciences at National College affiliated to Kathmandu University. She completed her school education from Laboratory Secondary School, which is an integrated high school accommodative to students with and without visual disability. She then joined the A- levels program at Saipal Academy, where the critical, analytical, descriptive, explanatory and challenging course requirements led her to widen her perception and understanding.
Born disabled to disabled parents, her experiences growing up may have been slightly different from other people of her generation. The instances of being denied the access of compatible course books, opportunities, perceived image by the school administration regarding visual disability and their prospects, obstacles of assignment submission due to poor subsistent arrangements and various other hurdles led her to develop an ambition for change making. Despite facing obstacles like limited access to education and discrimination, she developed a strong desire for change. Through her studies and her personal experiences, she realised that social divisions and injustices still persist, such as the caste system and gender inequality. Inspired by these issues, she aims to advocate for gender, disability, and social inclusion.