Our Speakers

Bibhusan Bista

Executive President

YoungInnovations

Bibhuan Bista is a seasoned leader in the tech industry, currently serving as executive president at YoungInnovations Pvt. Ltd. and Coding Mountain Pvt. Ltd. With over a decade as CEO of YoungInnovations, he has led the company to become a top provider of innovative software solutions worldwide. His expertise extends to guiding projects that enhance public sector accountability and promote open data initiatives in Nepal. Bibhuan actively participates in international conferences, advocating for technology's role in social progress. With a strong academic background and proficiency in various programming languages and management skills, Bibhuan is dedicated to using technology for positive change, making him a valuable asset in the digital landscape.

Dr. Ekramul Islam

Academic and Development Professional

BRAC University, Dhaka

Dr. Ekramul Islam is an expert in climate finance, sustainable business, and policy research. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of Louisville and an MBA from the University of Dhaka. As an Assistant Professor and Director of Executive Education at BRAC University, he has designed programs on Climate Finance, SME Leadership, and Digital Marketing. His initiative Uddokta 101 has trained and mentored over 250 women entrepreneurs. He has served as a consultant for the International Finance Corporation (World Bank Group) in over 20 countries. His research on climate and urban policy has been published in peer-reviewed journals and presented internationally.

Dr. Sarah Louisa Birchley

University Director of International Exchange

Toyo Gakuen University

Dr. Sarah Louisa Birchley is a seasoned consultant, researcher, trainer, and lecturer with 22 years of experience in Japan. As the director of international education programs, she has developed and facilitated internships and study-abroad opportunities in countries worldwide. With strong intercultural communication skills, Dr. Birchley has presented globally and created innovative online exchange experiences through COIL. Her research, supported by grants from the Japanese Government, focuses on Japanese Diaspora Entrepreneurs in Latin America. She is also a business consultant, empowering small and midsized companies in Japan and the UK to think globally.

Dr. Syed Mahbubur Rahman

Distinguished academic and researcher

BRAC University, Dhaka

Dr. Syed Mahbubur Rahman is a Professor at BRAC Business School, BRAC University, Dhaka. He has taught and conducted research at institutions across Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. He holds a PhD in Global Environmental Studies from Kyoto University, Japan, along with an MEngr from Trier University, an MS from Ritsumeikan APU, an MBM, and a BBA. His research interests include climate change adaptation, cobenefits, climate finance, energy policy, health policy, and sustainable development. Dr. Rahman has contributed to leading journals such as Energy Policy and Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews. His global academic background and interdisciplinary expertise guide his impactful work in addressing pressing environmental and policy challenges.

Er. Umesh Kumar Gupta

Executive Director

Industrial Enterprise Development Institute

Umesh Kumar Gupta is an experienced project management professional specializing in supply chain and logistics. With a demonstrated history of working across government, development, humanitarian, and commercial sectors, he brings expertise in warehousing, inventory management, procurement, contract management, and emergency preparedness. His leadership in humanitarian logistics and supply chain operations has contributed to efficient resource management and crisis response. Holding an MBA and an MPH, along with a foundational background in engineering, he combines strategic planning with technical acumen to drive impactful solutions in Nepal's industrial and economic development initiatives.

Janne Karjalainen

Senior Lecturer and Project Manager

Oulu University of Applied Sciences

Janne Karjalainen is an expert in interdisciplinary education, project-based learning, and transformative education practices. With a focus on experiential and reflective learning, Janne leads workshops and training sessions on teaching project-based courses, curriculum design, and design thinking. He specializes in lean startup methods, product management, and team communication. As part of the project BUCSBIN, Janne also contributes to teacher education, facilitating skill-building sessions in project communication and presentation.

Mr. Rajan Sharma

Specialist in Trade Facilitation, Logistics, and Value Chain Analysis

FNCCI

Rajan Sharma is a seasoned expert in cross-border trade, logistics, and value chain analysis with leadership experience in major Nepali trade organizations. He has served as President of the Nepal Freight Forwarders Association and held executive roles at FNCCI. Currently, he advises FNCCI, NEFFA, and the European Economic Chamber and consults for The World Bank on regional trade connectivity. He is CEO of Quality Freight Service and a promoter of Excel Development Bank. Rajan is also active in climate resilience initiatives with UN ESCAP and is a certified Quality Champion by ITC Geneva. He contributes to academia and policy through teaching, training, and published articles on trade and logistics.

Naina Bhardwaj

International Business Advisor

Dezan Shira and Associates

Naina is an International Business Advisor at Dezan Shira and Associates, where she channels her expertise to drive strategic business expansions into India and offers crucial guidance to global investors navigating the complex regulatory landscape. With a background in law and economics, she is dedicated to championing the interests of companies venturing into the Asian market. Her journey to this role was marked by a significant tenure as the Senior Business Editor at Asia Briefing. Here, she curated and disseminated invaluable market intelligence across multiple platforms, empowering companies seeking to broaden their footprint in Asia. These resources serve as a cornerstone, providing enterprises with pivotal insights for informed decision-making in their expansion endeavours. Before Asia Briefing, Naina worked as a dedicated researcher, collaborating closely with Indian politician and policymakers across an array of domains encompassing the economy, internal security, international relations, and polity. Her extensive experience also spans serving as a legal counsel, specializing in corporate and taxation laws. Naina's educational achievements include a Master's degree in Law, an Executive Degree in Global Business Management from IIM Indore, an Advanced Diploma in Media Laws from NALSAR, and an Honors degree in Economics from Delhi University. She is actively engaged as a speaker and representative for DSA at various national and international events, showcasing her commitment to fostering thought leadership and global engagement.

Pavitra Gautam

CEO & Co-founder

Karkhana

An engineer by education, an entrepreneur by profession, and an educator by passion, Mr. Gautam is the CEO of Karkhana, a platform revolutionizing education through maker-based learning to develop critical thinkers for the 21st century. A champion of entrepreneurship, he has served as Past President of NYEF Kathmandu and led the Start-Up Committee at NYEF's National Governing Council. Recognized as Nabil Skill Hero 2020 in Science and Technology and one of Business 360's "10 People to Watch in Education," he is also a two-time TEDx speaker.

Pranaya Sthapit

Project Director

Data for Development, The Asia Foundation

Pranaya Ratna Sthapit is a seasoned project management practitioner and researcher with expertise in innovative, data-driven project oversight. With extensive experience in designing research methodologies, training teams, and managing data collection and analysis, Pranaya has contributed to numerous surveys across Nepal. He holds a B.A. in Information Management, an MBA with an IT concentration, and a Graduate Diploma in Social Science. Pranaya is certified as a Registered Open Data Trainer and has participated in various advanced training programs, including Six Sigma and ethnography for monitoring and evaluation.

Prof. Dr. Jaagz Bajaj

Education & Trade Diplomacy, International Affairs & Public Policy

UNESCO- Climate Pact Ambassador

Prof. Dr. Jaagz Bajaj is a seasoned expert in Education & Trade Diplomacy, International Affairs, and Public Policy with over 20 years of experience. He has served in various diplomatic roles, including Economic Advisor, National Focal Point, Country Head, and Goodwill Ambassador. Currently, he is the National Focal Point for IBE UNESCO in the Balkan region and Head of the International Taskforce for Education on Teachers at UNESCO in North Macedonia. Additionally, he represents the European Union as a Climate Pact Ambassador, advocating for sustainability and climate action. Dr. Bajaj has authored several books, delivered keynotes, and presented at over 100 global conferences across Asia, Africa, and the EU. He holds a triple doctorate in Community & Social Work, International Affairs & Diplomacy, and Public Policy & Diplomacy. With extensive experience working with international organizations like the UN, UNESCO, and the World Bank, he is highly regarded for his expertise in trade diplomacy, rural development, and educational programs.

Prof. Satyajit Majumdar

Professor

Social Entrepreneurship

Prof. Majumdar is the former Director of the TISS Incube Foundation and an expert in entrepreneurship, social innovation, and strategic management with over 42 years of experience. He is co-chair of national biotechnology programs and mentors startups and social enterprises. Recognized with awards like the Dr. V.G. Patel Memorial Award (2023), he is a distinguished educator, consultant, and global speaker committed to fostering entrepreneurial talent and innovation.

Sanchit Aggarwal

Co-Founder

Thynaa Healthy Naturally Pvt. Ltd.

Sanchit Aggrawal is an accomplished Data Scientist turned Agripreneur, co-founder of Thynaa Healthy Naturally Pvt. Ltd., dedicated to promoting chemical-free farming. With over 12 years of startup experience, including key roles at Squadstack and Innoplexus, he combines deep tech expertise with a passion for sustainability. He developed QUALT, an AI- and IoT-based crop monitoring system under the BIRAC Social Innovation Fellowship, and completed natural farming training via NCONF. Sanchit also trains farmers through SSIAST and the Art of Living Foundation, and mentors data science students through UpGrad. A serial entrepreneur, he previously founded Ayata Intelligence, which created AI-powered glasses for the visually impaired—earning patents in India and the US and funding from SINE, IIT Bombay. He’s been supported by top incubators like Venture Center, TiE, and TISS. Through his YouTube channel Vishuddhi Vibes, Sanchit promotes holistic living, reflecting his broader mission to integrate technology, well-being, and sustainable agriculture.

Sixit Bhatta

Founder

Vriddhi, Digital Public Infrastructure

Sixit is an entrepreneur and former co-founder/CEO at Tootle, the ridesharing application from Nepal. He is a cross-functional professional with a background in ICT, education, telecom, and financial services industries. His experiences range from project management, operations, and business development to marketing and product definition. He is also the founder of vriddhi, digital public infrastructure. Over the past years, he has focused exclusively on integrating technology into education, leading a team of highly innovative and talented individuals. He holds a master's in business administration, with gold medals awarded by the Prime Minister and President of Nepal for educational excellence. He is also the president of Everest Toastmasters Club and has been a member of Toastmasters International for the last seven years.

Sunita Nhemaphuki

Founder

R & D Innovative Solution Pvt. Ltd.

Sunita Nhemaphuki is an experienced agricultural entrepreneur with over 10 years of leadership in the agro-based social enterprise sector. As the founder of R & D Innovative Solution Pvt. Ltd., she runs flagship programs across the entire agriculture value chain. A member of the Agriculture Sector Skill Committee (SSC), Sunita's work focuses on enhancing the agricultural ecosystem and the impact of occupational mapping on the sector.

Ulla-Maija Tormala

Lab Master (Dev-Lab)

OULU University of Applied Science

Mrs. Ulla-Maija Tormala is a Master of Science (MSc) in Health Sciences from the University of Jyväskylä. She has also education in occupational therapy (BSc, reg.) as well as psychotherapy (Special Level Family Therapy). She is also trained as a teacher. Ulma Seppänen has worked in mental health mostly with adolescence and their families, both policlinic and ward. Currently she is working in Oulu University of Applied Sciences (Oulu, Finland) as Senior Lecturer and LAB Master of Oulu DevLAB at Oamk LABs. She is also Head of Pedagogy at Oamk LABs. She is experienced both giving keynotes and workshops about the pedagogy of the LAB studio model, project-based learning, and intercultural and interprofessional learning.

Vedika Murarka

Co-Founder

Educase

Vedika Murarka is the co-founder of Educase, a women-led social enterprise providing innovative school bags that transform into desks for students in marginalized communities of Nepal. A graduate in Innovation and Entrepreneurship from the London School of Economics, Vedika combines her passion for problem-solving and impact with experience in public policy and business development.

Yogesh Kumar

Founder

Even Care

Yogesh is an engineering graduate with a master degree in social entrepreneurship and Public Administration with over a decade of experience. He is the Founder of Even Cargo, India’s first women-only e-commerce logistics company, a social enterprise that employs women from resource-poor communities by training them for employment opportunities in non-traditional livelihoods sectors. His work has garnered national and international recognition from media outlets like The New York Times, BBC, and NDTV. With a gold medal in Social Entrepreneurship from TISS, Yogesh also holds degrees in Engineering and Public Administration from Harvard University. He regularly consults on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and is a visiting faculty at Ambedkar University,Delhi. Yogesh’s vision is to see an India empowered by women, and his work continues to break barriers, advocating for gender parity in the workforce.