Meet the team

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.

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.

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.

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.

Passionate about driving positive change through effective program and project coordination, Rohan Shrestha is a competent professional with an academic background in Environmental Science and has a keen understanding of environmental issues, sustainability, and climate change. He is dedicated to making a lasting impact and believes collaboration is key to achieving success in every aspect. Building strong networks and organizing community events with meticulous monitoring and reporting are his key strengths. In Impact Hub Kathmandu, he is involved in the role of Program Officer, responsible for program designing and implementation, management, business incubation focused on introducing and integrating the concept of circular economy, monitoring and reporting. Adding to this, he comes with experience in facilitating training and capacity-building workshops focused on youth and women. He proudly expresses his concerns about the importance of leveraging education and advocacy to promote environmental sustainability, climate resilience, and social responsibility. Besides this, Mr. Shrestha enjoys spending his spare time gardening and is a nature enthusiast.

Rohan Shrestha is a dedicated professional with a background in Environmental Science, specializing in sustainability and climate change. As a Program Officer at Impact Hub Kathmandu, he designs and implements programs, manages business incubation, and promotes circular economy initiatives. His strengths include building networks, organizing community events, and ensuring effective monitoring and reporting. With experience in facilitating training for youth and women, he advocates for education and sustainability. Passionate about collaboration, he believes in driving meaningful change through advocacy and social responsibility. In his free time, he enjoys gardening and exploring nature.

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.

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.

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.

Selisha Shrestha is a program assistant who joined Impact Hub Kathmandu as an intern. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Studies from St.Xavier’s College. Her academic journey has equipped her with a strong foundation in business principles, preparing for the diverse professional challenges. Beginning her career as a CSM (Civil Society and Media)  intern, Selisha is developing her skills in community engagement. She has a deep interest in arts and fashion. In her leisure time, she is an avid reader and cherishes moments spent with family and friends. She is perpetually driven to broaden her knowledge and enhance her skills.

She is a finance professional from Lalitpur with expertise in financial analysis, risk assessment, and strategic planning. With over a decade of experience in non-profits, financial institutions, and banking, she ensures regulatory compliance and strengthens stakeholder relationships. Her skills include financial modeling, managing financial systems, reporting, and handling VAT and tax compliance. She holds a Master’s in Finance from Purbanchal University 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.