Back Ugan Manandhar National Coordinator More than a cumulative of 2 decades of working experience in the climate adaptation and mitigation change, natural resources management, biodiversity conservation and energy sector that focused on international policies and negotiations (UNFCCC and CBD), assessing impacts, and mainstreaming and implementing the array of projects in the above-mentioned sectors. A strong and clear understanding on forest resources, management, water resources management and climate change adaptation in Nepal. Able to plan and innovate programs and undertake policy advocacy in climate change, forest resources management, water resource management and biodiversity conservation. More than a half a decade of field experience in developing, designing, and executing hydropower projects in Nepal, Bhutan, India and Myanmar, solar projects in Nepal and Myanmar and biogas projects in Nepal and advocate Cumulative Impact Assessments. Have demonstrated leadership roles in the climate change and energy arena both nationally and internationally and uptake of carbon financing programs (energy and forestry). Strong experience in undertaking community and government engagements. Working on bioplastics to phase out plastics. Worked as a mentor for youth on climate change and developing curriculum for schools (grade 6-8 and 9-10) and undergraduate and graduate programs of the Environment Science. Share Profile Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Copy link

Back Dr. Pooja Chopra National Coordinator Biodiversity Pooja brings over two decades of extensive expertise spanning domains including biodiversity interpretation, community-based ecotourism, climate change education, social development & transformation coaching across both private and government sectors. She is Founder Director of Orlina Ventures Pvt. Ltd., dedicated to creating immersive and educational spaces that facilitate a deeper understanding and appreciation of the natural world. Holding a Ph.D. in Management from the esteemed Faculty of Management Studies at the University of Delhi, India, her research focus was dedicated to advancing the promotion of Ecotourism in India. Additionally, she boasts an MBA in Marketing and second master's degree in Forestry & Environment Management from Yale University, USA. In addition to being an entrepreneur since July 2005, her corporate repertoire encompasses training, brand promotion, market research, business development, and strategic marketing, demonstrating a proven track record in navigating diverse market landscapes. From the inception of ideas to their concrete implementation, Pooja adeptly steers projects towards success, leveraging her comprehensive skill set and profound industry knowledge. Her passion for sustainable practices and community engagement underscores her commitment to driving positive change within her field. Share Profile Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Copy link

Back Swayamprabha Das National Coordinator Marine Conservation Swayamprabha holds a Ph.D in International Relations from Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, and is a Climate Reality Fellow (2015) and a Hubert Humphrey fellow (2007). Her area of work has been environment and development, with an emphasis on Gender and climate change. With an experience of over 24 years, she is proficient in programme management, policy advocacy and knowledge management. She has a wide experience working with the Government, International organisations, NGOs and private sector. She is passionate about travelling and talking about oceans and marine conservation. Share Profile Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Copy link

Back Neeraj Chawla National Coordinator Clean Energy Mr. Neeraj Chawla is an industry leader, who has about 30+ years of industry experience in India and overseas. The idea of establishing a solar venture dedicated to the cause of promotion of integrating Clean Energy with sustainable development was triggered by his motivational ambition of self-driven entrepreneurship and Winnerspitch took shape in 2012 as a consulting organization and 2014 as an interventionist. His organization has been focused on the singular problem solving in energy domain – rooftop solar(industrial, institutional, schools and residential) sharply focused on ESG mandates Co2 footprint reduction by providing agile intervention strategies: Going renewable means employing energy sources that are carbon neutral- focus on Solution Rooftop for energy hoggers - energy conservation visionaries- futurist users. Asset Management - ‘Internet of Things (IoT) or Industry 4.0 technologies that lower carbon footprints across assets burning fuel and helping optimizing Energy Consumption along with Energy Auditing Green off-grid EV charging stations The foundation is to work along with the client from problem identification to solution implementation, demonstrating the promised results. Including consulting partners, auditors, and implementation partners are how are organization develops a trusted partnership with any organization. Share Profile Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Copy link

Back Prajun Chapagain National Coordinator With a Master's in Environmental Management and prior experience as a research assistant, I'm positioned to contribute significantly to disaster risk reduction. My expertise lies in assessing environmental vulnerabilities, engaging communities, and developing evidence-based policies. Through research, I've honed skills in data analysis and trend identification, crucial for identifying at-risk areas and devising mitigation strategies. Moreover, my adept interpersonal communication allows me to effectively engage with communities, fostering collaboration and empowering them in disaster preparedness efforts. I bring a proactive approach to capacity building, where I aim to share knowledge and empower stakeholders in disaster-prone regions. By facilitating training programs and workshops, I can enhance skills in preparedness, response, and recovery, thus bolstering community resilience. Ultimately, I'm committed to leveraging my education, research background, and passion for environmental solutions to contribute to innovative strategies that mitigate risks and build resilience against climate-related disasters. Share Profile Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Copy link

Back Sheetal Antil National Coordinator Nature Based Solutions Sheetal Antil is a seasoned professional with a strong background in nature-based solutions, climate change education and awareness, and sustainability. She currently works as a Manager for Nature-Based Solutions at South Pole, where she focuses on sourcing projects that promote nature conservation and restoration in the South Asia and Middle East regions. Her goal is to channel climate finance to these projects and provide access to carbon markets. Before her current role, she worked as a Program Manager at The Climate Project Foundation, where she managed climate change education and awareness programs. As a part of Climate Reality (trained Climate Reality Leader 2015), she has organized various campaigns and education programs related to climate action and has extensively worked with teachers, youth, and school community members. She has also gained significant experience in the field of conservation and sustainability through her work with organizations such as the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and Capgemini Invent. Additionally, she is a CII certified expert in climate change and sustainability, and part of ESD expert net. Sheetal holds a Master's degree in Biodiversity and Conservation and a Management degree in International Marketing from the Indian Institute of Foreign Trade. As a Green Jobs National Coordinator, she is committed to sharing her experiences and empowering young minds to take climate action by making green choices. Share Profile Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Copy link

Back Alka Tomar National Coordinator Media She possesses an illustrious background spanning more than two decades in the domains of climate change, environmental education & communication, biodiversity, natural resources, water, sanitation, and broader developmental imperatives. In her distinguished role as President at the Centre for Environment Communication (CEC), and at the helm of the Centre for Youth (C4Y) as Chairperson, Alka has consistently demonstrated an unwavering dedication to sustainability and impactful initiatives. She is 2015 Cohort Climate Realty Leader. Alka's diverse professional background has enabled her to collaborate with various stakeholders nationwide, including youth, educators, educational institutions, government ministries, panchayats, and civil societies. Her efforts in climate change communication encompass sustainable energy solutions, decarbonisation initiatives, carbon-neutral city projects, low-carbon campaigns, and climate resilience initiatives. Furthermore, Alka contributes her expertise as a member of the Governing Board of Climate Action Network (CANSA) South Asia and is affiliated with the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Academically, she holds degrees in Environmental Sciences and has certifications in Sustainable Business Strategy from Harvard Business School Online and Strategic CSR from Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs (IICA). Alka's journey gains fortitude from her participation in transformative fellowship programs, including the LEAD India Fellowship Programme on community connect and the US Department of State International Visitors Leadership Programme (IVLP) on Climate Change and Clean Energy. Her dedication to education and global collaboration is evident in her completion of the intensive Environment Education Training Programme (TEE). Alka's remarkable journey reflects her steadfast commitment to driving positive change and fostering sustainability on both national and global levels. Share Profile Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Copy link

Back Phurpa Lama Country Coordinator Phurpa Lama is from Nepal, a dedicated climate activist and educator hailing from Nepal, boasting over 13 years of expertise in addressing climate change issues. His journey began in Denmark, where he was selected to attend the come2gether Climate Ambassador Conference in 2009. Further enhancing his knowledge, he earned a degree in Crossing Borders Global Studies from Krogerup Hojskole in Denmark, focusing on environmental sustainability, climate change, and UN Sustainable Development Goals. Between 2012 and 2015, he served as a Resource Person at the NEFIN Climate Change Partnership Program in Nepal. In 2013, he underwent training by former US Vice President Al Gore and officially became a Climate Reality Leader for the Climate Reality Project. His commitment extended to numerous performances on climate change in isolated Nepalese villages, accompanied by over two dozen training sessions on climate change and REDD+ issues for various Indigenous Peoples organizations. His efforts aimed to empower communities with knowledge about the climate crisis, fostering meaningful actions for change. Notably, he initiated the "Light Up A Life For A Better Nepal" project after the devastating earthquake in 2015. This project, launched shortly thereafter, focused on supplying solar power lamps to villages devoid of electricity, concurrently raising awareness about the harmful impact of petrol-powered lamps. The primary objective is to introduce solar systems to hundreds of homes currently without electricity, replacing fossil fuel-based lighting systems in Nepal's remote mountain villages with sustainable alternatives. His advocacy extends globally, as he mentored during Climate Reality Leadership Corps events held in New Delhi, Florida, Philippines, and Pittsburgh. Share Profile Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Copy link

Back Pradeep Karuturi National Coordinator E Mobility With over a decade of experience in public policy, Pradeep has extensively worked on climate change-related issues, including sustainable mobility, Indigenous community welfare, and disaster relief management. His journey has taken him across various organizations in India and internationally, honing his expertise in these critical areas. In his full-time role, he leads policy advocacy in India, promoting sustainable mobility in cities through electric vehicles with the policy research think tank OMI Foundation. Additionally, Pradeep is a Global Shaper Alumni, an initiative by the World Economic Forum, and has undergone training in the Climate Reality Leadership Program. He holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Urban Environment Management and Law from the National Law University of Delhi. He has also been selected for the Global Solvers Accelerator Program by the Melton Foundation for the 2024 cohort. Share Profile Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Copy link

Back Sushila Regmi Adhikari National Coordinator Sushila Regmi Adhikari has 13+ years of extensive working experience in multiple sectors, from government to non-governmental organizations (NGOs), academia, and the development sector. She is a seasoned environmentalist with academic credentials in environmental science and law with a specialization in environmental law. Highly motivated and committed to environment conservation and sustainable development. As she worked in diverse arena she holds good knowledge and a multifaceted perspective to her advocacy efforts. Her experience in solid waste management involving youth and communities together, putting new aspects and approaches in it was exceptional which was also appreciated by the communities as well as the MoFAGA and DIFID by offering the best performance award. She has collaborated with inter/national agencies, government, NGOs, and other stakeholders to develop and initiate innovative ideas to addressing solid waste management issues. She has the verge of knowledge and exposure in policy crafting, program designing, and facilitating training/workshops. Holding a deep sense of responsibility toward Mother Earth and future generations, Sushila inspires others to join her, to traverse towards a more sustainable and habitable world. Share Profile Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Copy link

Winners of Youth for Earth 2023 Junior Category 1st Position Project - Neeraja Project Neeraja from Tribal Residential School, Rohile, Trimbakeshwar, Nashik, Maharashtra. The groundbreaking initiative under Project Neeraja is dedicated to watershed development by constructing continuous contour trenches and loose boulder structures. They addressed the problem of severe soil erosion in Rohile village which is a heavy rainfall area. Their steadfast climate commitment is praiseworthy. We anticipate that with the active participation of students and the local community, they will devise more innovative ideas for a sustainable future. 2nd Position Project - BacWP Project BacWP from The Iconic School, Bhopal came with a big, bold idea of making biodegradable sanitary pads aiming to drive systemic change for menstrual hygiene & proper waste decomposition. They used readily available natural resources such as water hyacinth, bagasse and papaya fiber for making napkins. This project has the potential for combined benefits like safe disposal, decomposition & hygiene. Their climate co-benefits as the outcome of this project with bare minimum resources is commendable. Such inventive attitudes of youth are admirable & we expect they will scale up in future. 3rd Position Project - Passionately Natural Project Passionately Natural from TVS Academy Hosur advocated organic farming with the aim to create a kitchen garden, minimizing the use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides towards a sustainable food system. They also ensured the farmers community participation by using ‘Panchagavya’ which boosts growth & immunity in the plant system and ‘Jeevamrutham’ that enhances soil fertility. Their effort is applaudable for spreading awareness about organic farming. We expect they will explore the future possibilities of climate smart agriculture with their ingenious approach. 4th Position Project - BeejGole Project Beejgole from the students of Adarsh Vidyamandir Satara, Maharashtra came with an idea of maximizing the seed germination rate & recommendation for an easy way of growing trees. They made the seed balls, where seeds were wrapped in a mixture of clay, cattle dung or compost to protect the seeds from predators. They selected 10 native species with the help of the village community & local Joint Forest Management Committee. It’s a laudable effort having great future potential to support climate informed conservation. 5th Position Project - Finobadi The Project Finobadi from Govt. Sarvodaya Bal Vidyalaya came with the productive idea of a circular economy. ‘Finobadi’ is the combination of finance, innovation and kabadiwalas to address the critical problem of inefficient waste management and its harmful impacts on the environment. They made an online platform to connect individuals and businesses with trusted kabadiwalas for waste collection and recycling. Such innovative ideas of waste to wealth creation is the need of the hour for achieving net zero target against the climate crisis. Senior Category 1st Position Project - Tamira SES Project Tamira from Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and Environment advocated a big bold idea for river restoration & rejuvenation of Tamiraparani. They ensured community engagement with a hyper local approach. They explored the interplay between its hydrological, ecological and socio-cultural dimensions with an active participation of the fishing community. Such a responsible attitude of youth towards climate action is praiseworthy & we anticipate that they will devise more innovative green solutions for a sustainable future. 2nd Position Project - Nirmiti We all know that Nature Based Solutions (NBS) are often described as ‘no regret’ options, providing benefits to people in a range of scenarios. Project Nirmiti from St. Josephs’ University conceived an objective of ‘Bioenzyme cleaners’ to combat disposal issues of toxic household cleaning products into water bodies. Their future objective of developing a climate sustainable business model for ‘Bio-enzymes’ has an amazing capacity to rejuvenate contaminated water. Their efforts towards green growth are commendable. 3rd Position Project - Polyfueler Nowadays, waste plastic has become a global concern, leading to pollution and posing significant threats to human health and nature. The revolutionary idea of waste management by transforming diverse plastic waste into fuel can be a long-term solution for the environment and for society's energy needs. Their practice of transition towards cleaner & greener future, fostering sustainable practices and contributing to a circular economy is applaudable through the project Polyfueler from Sershah Engineering College, Sasaram. 4th Position Project - Beat Plastic Pollution Plastic pollution-free world is not a choice but a commitment to life & a commitment to the next generation. Team Beat Plastic Pollution from Earkai Paathukaappu Sangam (Nature Protection Society) conducted several awareness campaigns, plastic waste collection drives, waste processing or recycling units & restricted the plastics entering into the ponds and ocean. They were guided by local forest rangers & also ensured community participation. Such an action-based approach by the team is applaudable. They have also launched Project PAD ATMs in association with the Glad Bharath, in which they distributed biodegradable sanitary napkins. 5th Position Project - Our Common Future Project Common Future from Charusat University came up with an idea of strengthening resilience and adaptive capacity to climate related disasters, focussing on food security and impacts of climate change on it. They conducted several surveys, interviews with local communities, sharing ideas of climate-smart agriculture etc. We truly appreciate their efforts, though this project is in its nascent stage. We hope it will grow with time, strengthen their implementation and make remarkable changes. Go Back

Back Nikhil Kamath National Coordinator Communications Nikhil Kamath is a Brand & Content Strategist working with small businesses to enable them to expand their digital presence and generate leads. Being a storyteller at heart, he has been documenting his food and travel escapades on his blog, 'The Salt and Pepper Food Guide', for over a decade, which inspired him to publish his first novel, 'It Was You...Always'. He has also co-authored the poetry anthology 'Dastaan-e-Kalam'. He trained as a Climate Reality Leader during the August 2020 Virtual Global Training and was also a part of the Climate Ambassadors Cohort at the Global Youth Climate Network (GYCN). Nikhil started his journey as an Educator in 2018 and has since mentored 5000+ school and college students on topics such as Entrepreneurship, Climate Action & Sustainability. Content Writing and Storytelling. Share Profile Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Copy link