Meet the team

Kamal, our dynamic Logistics Coordinator, brings a hands-on approach and international expertise to Impact Hub Kathmandu and FabLab Nepal. With a passion for farming and a talent for tinkering, he honed his skills during three years in Qatar’s AC manufacturing industry. Now back in Nepal, Kamal oversees site management, maintenance, training, and logistics, playing a key role in empowering local innovation. His dedication and enthusiasm make him an invaluable asset as he blends his passion with experience to strengthen Nepal’s innovation ecosystem.

Aarati is passionate about empowering startups by sharing her expertise in organizing and managing business operations. She specializes in coaching startups on financial management and effectively utilizing seed funds to drive revenue growth. Currently, she manages the finances of Impact Hub Kathmandu and collaborates with the global team on the organization’s strategic initiatives. With a proven track record of supporting five cohorts of startups and established organizations, Aarati has helped optimize resources, enhance financial literacy, and achieve long-term financial goals. An MBA graduate from Western International University, University of Phoenix, India Campus and with a short stint in Nepal’s banking sector, she brings deep knowledge in financial management, strategy, and operations.

Bibek Kumar Paswan is a mechanical engineering graduate currently working as a Technical Assistant at Impact Hub Kathmandu. He is passionate about applying engineering principles to solve real-world manufacturing challenges. His work includes operating and maintaining 3D printers, CNC laser cutters, and CNC routers, as well as CAD modelling and product prototyping. He is eager to learn new technologies, improve his technical skills, and contribute to innovative projects that have a positive impact.

Working alongside the experienced technical team at the FabLab provides me with valuable opportunities to enhance my practical skills and gain hands-on experience with advanced fabrication technologies. I am passionate about applying my engineering knowledge to real- world projects and contributing to innovative solutions. I am very excited to collaborate with creative individuals and be part of programs that use technology and innovation to create a positive impact in our communities.

Hailing from Tanahun, he brings over a decade of expertise in financial management, budgeting, tax compliance, and operational efficiency. His diverse experience spans non-profits, construction, and financial institutions, where he has streamlined processes, ensured regulatory compliance, and built strong stakeholder relationships. With skills in financial systems management, reporting, budgeting, HR, and administration, he has a proven track record of enhancing organizational performance. He holds a Master’s in Social Science and a Bachelor’s in Business Studies from Tribhuvan University.

Brijesh Bhattarai is a Finance and economics enthusiast with a BBA in Finance and an ongoing Master’s in Economics. Proficient in SQL, data analysis, and market research, I blend technical expertise with a passion for solving complex business challenges. I previously worked as a Financial Analyst at Hathway Investment Limited, where I honed my skills in risk management, financial modelling, and strategic decision-making. Published researcher and finance case competition veteran, driven to leverage data-driven insights for optimizing financial performance.

Denjing Tamang is a mechanical and design engineer working as a Technical Assistant at Impact Hub Kathmandu | FabLab Nepal. He specializes in 3D design, digital manufacturing, STEAM education, and Net Zero initiatives. Passionate about applying academic knowledge to real-world challenges, Denjing is committed to promoting FabLab’s potential and supporting impactful community programs. He is passionate about biomimicry, using nature’s principles to inspire sustainable and innovative solutions. He focuses on projects that blend technology, design and sustainability to create lasting impact.

Melina Tuladhar is a motivated Electronics Engineer blending technical expertise with a passion for innovation. With a postgraduate degree in ICT from the Asian Institute of Technology, Thailand, and a bachelor’s in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from Assumption University, Thailand, she has researched IoT applications in aquaponics systems and worked as an R&D Electronics Engineer at Cal-comp Electronics, Thailand. At Impact Hub Kathmandu, she designs and refines FabLab workshops on electronics and coding, specializing in STEAM education, sustainable design, and grassroots innovation. With initiatives like “Making Spaces” and “Open Societal Challenge STEAM Education,” Melina uses technology to empower underserved areas.

Padmakshi Rana is the Executive Director and Co-founder of Impact Hub Kathmandu, where she supports startups and MSMEs in sustainable and resilient business innovation. With expertise in purpose-driven business models, systems innovation, and CSR, she has dedicated her career to the intersection of business impact and innovation. Previously, Padmakshi co-founded The Inceptery, a sustainability-led innovation consultancy in Singapore, and served as a research associate at the University of Cambridge’s Institute for Manufacturing. She holds a PhD in Manufacturing Management and an MPhil in Environment, Society, and Development from the University of Cambridge. Her preceding educational qualification includes an MBA, followed by a marketing career in ecotourism.

Palistha Manandhar holds a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Engineering from Kathmandu University and Master’s in Business Administration from King’s College. She has previously contributed to projects focused on solid waste management, circular economy, environmental sustainability, and green job creation. Currently, she serves as a Program Officer, where she will be supporting program development and implementation, strengthening technical and business aspects, managing operations and outreach, and facilitating workshops and capacity-building activities. Outside of work, she enjoys painting and sketching.

A Thinker, Maker, and Innovator, he brings over a decade of experience in CAD, product development, and engineering design. Formerly a Guest Engineer at HONDA R&D Japan, he now leads FabLab Nepal, pioneering digital fabrication, STEAM education, and sustainable innovation. As a key figure in establishing Nepal’s first FabLab, he has driven projects in plastic recycling, assistive technologies, and digital safety, collaborating with entrepreneurs to turn ideas into reality. With a Master’s in Engineering Design and Manufacturing and as a FabAcademy alum, he’s passionate about sharing knowledge through workshops and hands-on training. Beyond work, he enjoys art, travel, movies, and engaging conversations. Always ready to bring ideas from head to hand, he’s someone you’ll want to connect with.

Rashi Maharjan, a Policy Researcher and graduate in International Relations and Peace Studies from Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University, Japan, has contributed to studies on Nepal’s Rural Telecommunications Development Fund and Trade Protection Measures for Nepal. In 2023, she received the Women Entrepreneur Award from Atelier Platform through Sakshyam 2.0 for her initiative “Learner’s Room,”. Her interests span policy research, DEI, education, and youth empowerment, and she is multilingual, speaking five languages. Currently, she works as a Programs and Research Officer at Impact Hub Kathmandu. If not working, you will find Rashi singing or buried behind the books she purchases but can never seem to read.

Riddi Paudel is currently working as a Jr. Finance Assistant, where she contributes by managing Tally Entries, maintaining accurate records of financial transactions, processing invoices, receipts and payments as well as organizing financial files and providing administrative support to the finance manager and team. She is also pursuing MBA in Finance from Pokhara University with Bachelor’s degree in Business Studies from Tribhuvan University and has developed strong skills in accounting, MS Office applications and problem solving. As a fresher, she is eager to gain hands-on experience, enhance her professional knowledge and contribute meaningfully to the organization. Beyond her academic and professional journey, she enjoys cooking, painting and dancing which reflect her creative side.