OUR CREATIVE TEAM

Min Bahadur Shahi
Admin Manager
Min Bahadur Shahi is the Administrative Manager at Kopila Valley Sewa Samaj and has been a dedicated member of the team since its inception. Originally from Accham, where access to education was limited, his perseverance led him to earn a law degree from Tribhuvan University. Min began as Assistant Principal at Kopila Valley School, later serving as Acting Principal, and then as Administrator for BlinkNow Nepal in 2015. His journey reflects strong leadership, resilience, and commitment to education. Outside of work, Min enjoys reading, spending time with family, and playing soccer. He continues to inspire through his dedication and integrity.

Ram Raj Khakurel
Finance Manager
Ram Raj Khakurel joined Kopila Valley Sewa Samaj as the Finance and Compliance Manager on May 13, 2024. He brings over 20 years of experience in financial management and administration across both corporate and NGO sectors. He previously served as Finance Manager at Nyaya Health Nepal for six years and worked for 12 years as an Account Administrator at Special Trading Company WLL in Doha, Qatar. With a Master’s Degree in Management, Ram Raj specializes in strategic financial oversight, compliance, and sustainable systems development. Passionate about value-based impact, he also enjoys music, spirituality, and exploration beyond the workplace.

Ganesh Budha
Procurement and Logistics Officer
Ganesh Budha is the Procurement and Logistics Officer at Kopila Valley School since December 27, 2023. With over a decade of experience in both the social development and government sectors, he brings deep expertise in operations and coordination. He previously served as an Employment Coordinator under the Prime Minister Employment Program at Chandannath Municipality and spent five years with KIRDARC Nepal in Jumla. Ganesh also has ten years of teaching experience in science and math across private and government schools. His diverse background and dedication make him a valuable asset in ensuring smooth and efficient program delivery at KVSS.

Pratikshya Bhandari
Program Coordinator
Pratikshya Bhandari is the Program Coordinator for the Futures Team at Kopila Valley since October 2023. Originally from Rajapur, Bardiya, she holds an MBA in Non-Profit Management from King's College and a Public Health undergraduate degree. A Teach for Nepal alumna (2015–2017), she brings over four years of experience in designing and implementing education and health projects. At KVSS, she leads programs on career counseling, scholarship planning, and alumni engagement. Previously, she served as Program Manager at Bloom Nepal Foundation. Passionate about empowering youth and creating lasting social impact, Pratikshya enjoys reading and traveling in her free time.

Sunita Bhandari
Associate Manager Sustainability
Sunita Bhandari is the Sustainability Coordinator at Kopila Valley Sewa Samaj. Originally from Chapakot, Syangja, she holds a Master’s in Environmental Science from Tribhuvan University. With over four years of experience, she leads sustainability initiatives focused on education, food systems, and youth-led environmental solutions. Sunita has been actively involved in networks like NYCA, YUWA, and NES, where she serves as a provincial coordination member. In 2023, she was honored with the EE 30 Under 30 award by the North American Association for Environmental Education. Deeply passionate about people and the planet, Sunita works to cultivate positive, lasting environmental change.

Rishi Ram Dahal
Repair and Maintenance Coordinator
Rishi Ram Dahal is the Repair and Maintenance Coordinator at Kopila Valley School, where he has worked since May 2022. Originally from Changunarayan, Bhaktapur, he brings extensive experience in electrical, plumbing, and site maintenance. Prior to joining KVSS, Rishi held roles at The British School, IOM, Mirage Lords Inn Hotel, and Premier Inn Hotels in Dubai. He holds an electrical diploma and various certifications in fire safety, first aid, and compliance. Known for his professionalism and problem-solving skills, Rishi ensures facility safety and functionality at KVSS. Outside of work, he enjoys music and traveling, reflecting his dynamic and dedicated personality.

Navraj Joshi
HR Coordinator
Navraj Joshi is an experienced HR professional with over six years in sourcing, recruitment, and HR operations. He joined Kopila Valley Sewa Samaj bringing a strong passion for building and strengthening HR systems. Navraj previously worked as a Senior People Operations Officer at Nyaya Health Nepal for three and a half years and managed HR for 450+ staff at a British heavy equipment franchise in Kathmandu. Before KVSS, he was with Mercy Corps Nepal. He holds an MBA from Pokhara University and is known for his strategic HR insights and dedication to team development. Navraj enjoys traveling and reading in his free time.

Amar Shahi
Associate Manager Finance
Amar Bahadur Shahi is the Finance Coordinator at Kopila Valley Sewa Samaj, where he has served since 2014. Originally from Achham, Nepal, Amar cherishes his childhood memories of nature and play in his village. He holds a Master’s degree in Human Resources with a finance specialization from Midwestern University. At KVSS, he leads budgeting, financial reporting, grant management, and compliance. Known for his expertise in financial analysis and forecasting, Amar collaborates across departments to ensure sound financial practices. He holds certifications in finance and accounting and was recognized for his key contributions during the green campus construction of Kopila Valley School.
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Binita Shrestha
Enrichment Coordinator
Binita Shrestha is the Enrichment Coordinator at Kopila Valley Children’s Home, bringing over a decade of experience in teaching and child welfare. Passionate about creating safe and nurturing spaces, she specializes in designing age-appropriate enrichment programs that support children's academic, emotional, and social growth. At KVSS, she collaborates with caregivers, educators, and health professionals to ensure each child’s developmental needs are met. Binita holds an M.Ed. in English, a bachelor’s in law, and a postgraduate degree in psychology and counseling. She enjoys traveling and engaging in art and craft activities with children, reflecting her creative and child-centered approach.

Nitesh Joshi
Admin and Finance Officer at KVCH
Nitesh Joshi is the Admin and Finance Officer at Kopila Valley Children’s Home, bringing nearly nine years of experience in administration and finance. He holds a bachelor's degree in Business Administration with a focus on Marketing and Finance from Tribhuvan University. Nitesh has worked with several NGOs including Ecards Nepal, Caritas Nepal, and SUAAHARA – Good Nutrition Program. His experience also includes roles in the Global Fund’s HIV Prevention Program and the MOFA Japan-funded Disaster Program. He has also worked in the private sector with Bhawani Design and Engineering Solution. In his free time, Nitesh enjoys traveling with friends.
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Dinesh Sapkota
Agriculture Officer
Dinesh Sapkota is an Agriculture Extension professional from Birendranagar-11, Surkhet, who joined Kopila Valley Sewa Samaj in January 2025. With a bachelor’s and master’s degree in Agricultural Science (Extension) from Tribhuvan University, he brings years of experience in teaching, project coordination, and sustainable agriculture. Dinesh has served as an Agriculture Technical Officer, Project Coordinator, and Assistant Professor at institutions like Interdependent Society Surkhet and Mid-West University. Passionate about organic farming, vermicomposting, and landscape gardening, he focuses on agri-entrepreneurship and empowering youth. Dinesh is committed to bridging science, education, and field practice to build a more sustainable agricultural future.

Sita Shah
Women and Family Counselor
Sita Shah is a Women and Family Counselor at Kopila Valley Sewa Samaj, serving under the Health and Wellness Program. A permanent resident of Birendranagar–3, Surkhet, she holds a Master’s in Health Education from Tribhuvan University, along with CMA certification and psychosocial counseling training. With over 15 years of experience in both government and non-government sectors, Sita has worked in roles such as psychosocial counselor, lecturer, and health post in-charge. Her work has focused on women, children, and marginalized communities. Sita is deeply committed to social service and plays a vital role in advancing KVSS’s mission of empowerment and well-being.
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Dinesh Pandey
Social Mobilization Officer ( Social Worker)
Dinesh Pandey is a dedicated Social Worker at Kopila Valley Sewa Samaj, originally from Birendranagar–01, Surkhet. Holding BSW and MSW degrees, he brings strong experience in both field and office-based social work, including work with leading NGOs/INGOs as an enumerator. He currently leads the Family Development and Community Support Programs, focusing on child protection, case management, psychosocial and crisis support, and community empowerment. Dinesh collaborates across various KVSS programs, keeping children at the center of his work. He first joined Kopila Valley as an intern in 2020 and returned in 2021, driven by a passion for service. He enjoys photography and traveling.

Mohan Khadka
Nutrition Officer
Mohan Khadka is the Nutrition Officer at Kopila Valley Sewa Samaj, with around seven years of experience in the development sector. He holds a bachelor's degree in Nutrition and Dietetics and is pursuing a Master's in Sociology from Tribhuvan University. Mohan previously served as Project Coordinator at Nepal Public Awakening Forum, leading programs in Nutrition, WASH, Mental Health, and Gender-Based Violence prevention. His expertise lies in addressing child malnutrition through a multidisciplinary and behavior-change approach. Passionate about empowerment and equal opportunity, Mohan is committed to improving community health. In his free time, he enjoys cycling, dancing, reading, and spiritual activities.

Sachyam Sharma Upadhay
Children’s Home Associate Manager
Sachyam Sharma is the Associate Manager of Kopila Valley Children’s Home, where he oversees the daily care and emotional well-being of over 50 children and more than 30 graduates. His journey began in 2015 as a Dashain Camp Volunteer, and the children’s joy inspired him to join full-time in 2016 as a Caregiver. Known affectionately as "Brother" by the children, Sachyam brings warmth, support, and guidance to the home. A spiritual person at heart, he practices and promotes meditation and yoga among the children. His dedication and love make him a cherished and inspiring presence at Kopila Valley Children’s Home.

Poonam Pokhrel Sapkota
Associate Manager
H&W Program
Poonam Pokhrel Sapkota is a seasoned health professional with nearly 20 years of experience in nursing, education, and public health. She holds master’s degrees in Public Health, Education, and Sociology, and is currently pursuing an MPhil-PhD in Inclusive Education at Tribhuvan University. Before joining Kopila Valley Sewa Samaj, she served as Program Incharge at Balkumari College and worked as a nurse at B.P. Koirala Memorial Cancer Hospital. Poonam is passionate about health literacy, cancer prevention, and inclusive education. A Lions Club volunteer since 2008, she also enjoys hiking, cycling, and eco-friendly crafts, championing health and education as tools for lasting change.

Prateek Koirala
Senior HR officer
Prateek Koirala is the Senior HR Officer at Kopila Valley Sewa Samaj, where he has been contributing since 2023. He holds an MBA in Human Resources from Ace Institute of Management and brings over five years of diverse HR experience across the private, IT, and development sectors. Prateek has also served as an Adjunct Faculty, teaching Strategic Management and Business Environment Analysis at the undergraduate level. Passionate about the development sector, he believes KVSS is the ideal place for both personal and professional growth. Known for his empathy and eagerness to learn, Prateek is committed to making a meaningful impact.

Padam Subedi
Mental Health Counselo
Padam Subedi is a dedicated Mental Health Counselor at Kopila Valley Sewa Samaj, supporting the emotional well-being of students, staff, and occasionally the wider community. With over 17 years of experience, he specializes in mental health assessments, psychoeducation, and individualized counseling. Trained in CBT, Trauma-Focused CBT, Mindfulness, and Narrative Exposure Therapy, Padam uses diverse therapeutic approaches and relaxation techniques. He also conducts mental health trainings and emotional support sessions across the organization. Rooted in compassion and professionalism, his work promotes mental well-being and challenges stigma, making a meaningful impact at both individual and community levels through psychological care and awareness.

Udya Nepali
Senior Repair & Maintenance Assistant
Udaya Nepali is the Senior Repair & Maintenance Assistant at Kopila Valley Sewa Samaj, where he has been serving since April 30, 2019. An SLC graduate, Udaya has received technical training in welding, plumbing, and building electrical systems, along with Basic First Aid training from the Nepal Red Cross Society. He has also completed basic training from Agni Nathan. Dedicated and hardworking, Udaya continuously works to improve his skills and performance in maintaining the facilities at KVSS. His commitment to safety, reliability, and quality service makes him a valuable member of the operations team at Kopila Valley.
Our Board

Jharna
Rana
Chandra
Shahi
Shanti
Tolangi
Gogan Bahadur Malla
Pawan
Pandey
Punam
Shahi
Saraswati Budha

Our Founders
Maggie Doyne and Tope Malla
Maggie and Tope co-founded the Kopila Valley Children’s Home together in 2007. After meeting at Ramana’s Garden in India, a children’s home primarily serving Nepali refugees, the two decided to enter into a partnership to serve the needs of Nepal’s children back in Tope’s home country. The two have been a dynamic duo ever since, running the organization side by side. When Maggie and Tope founded the Children’s Home in Surkhet in 2007, they named it Kopila Valley—“kopila” means “flower bud” in Nepali. Now, “Kopila Valley Sewa Samaj" implements that dream in Surkhet.