"Kapil Dev Regmi: Transforming Education, Communities, and Global Connections"

Born and raised in Syangja, Kapil Dev Regmi has made it his life’s mission to empower communities and foster global collaboration. His journey is marked by an unwavering determination and deep-rooted passion for education and social impact. Regmi's academic pursuits laid the foundation for his endeavours. He pursued an MBA and later an MPhil in Educational Leadership at Kathmandu University. These years ignited his desire to make a tangible difference in the world and set the groundwork for the individual he is today.

With a vision to provide quality education, Regmi established Kathmandu Don Bosco School and College in 1998. The institution grew to become one of Nepal's top educational institutions. But Regmi wanted more, he wanted to create a forward-thinking institution that blends traditional Nepali values with global perspectives, and that gave birth to Kanjirowa National School.

In this issue of Business 360, Regmi shares the five things that have had an impact his work and life.

Failure taught me resilience and shaped my approach to challenges

My journey in life has been a testament to the transformative power of education, perseverance, and a vision for positive change. After completing my School Leaving Certificate (SLC), I moved to Kathmandu to study at Shanker Dev Campus where I laid the foundations for my career. Following my studies in business, I pursued an MBA and later an MPhil in Educational Leadership at Kathmandu University. Those years were formative, not just academically but personally, setting the groundwork for the person I am today.

In 1998, I established Kathmandu Don Bosco School and College, a decision that marked the beginning of my lifelong commitment to education. It was a thrilling and daunting undertaking, but over time, our institution became one of the top ten schools in Nepal. After a period of growth, we rebranded as Kanjirowa National School. This name represented our commitment to Nepal and our broader vision of providing world-class education within our own borders. However, I wanted to do more than just run a successful school; I wanted to pioneer something innovative. Later, we opened Kathmandu Pragya Kunja School.

As time went on, I noticed a shift. In the education sector, as in life, names carry immense power. Many schools in Nepal were opting for foreign names to signify their aspirations, and we, too, initially adopted a name with international appeal. But over time, it became clear that our pride in our Nepali identity deserved a place in our institution’s name. So, Kanjirowa National School was born, proudly Nepali yet forward-looking. It was a significant step for us, embodying our goal to offer an education rooted in local values but global in perspective.

My educational journey wasn’t without its challenges. The path was often steep, filled with hurdles that demanded hard work and resilience. When I reflect on my early years, I remember how much effort it took to succeed academically. During college, transitioning from Nepali-medium government schooling to taking exams in English was no easy task. I spent countless hours preparing, sometimes studying 8-10 hours a day. Despite failing my SLC exam the first time, the setback only fueled my determination. I eventually passed, but that experience of failure was pivotal, teaching me resilience and shaping my approach to challenges.

Leadership is not just about titles but about mindset

My life took another exciting turn when I connected with Engineers Without Borders International, a global network dedicated to advancing engineering solutions worldwide. I had always been interested in contributing to Nepal's growth, and this organisation represented a path to do so. Though I am not an engineer by training, I reached out to their leadership and proposed a partnership with Nepal. The director from Israel, whom I first contacted, encouraged me, saying that leadership is not just about titles but about mindset. With that, I joined the Engineers Without Borders International, where we are working with a diverse team of professionals, including representatives from Nepal’s LGBT community and various academic institutions like Kathmandu University and Pokhara University.

Three years ago, I never imagined I would be part of such a global initiative. But as I travelled to various countries, engaging with engineering boards across Europe, I realised how much potential Nepal holds. I met with presidents and teams of engineering boards who showed genuine interest in contributing to Nepal’s development, whether through infrastructure projects or educational exchanges. Recently, the president of the Swiss Board of Engineers visited Nepal, signalling the growing global interest in our country’s potential. Through these collaborations, I saw the opportunity to bring international knowledge and expertise back home.

Another initiative that is close to my heart is STARS – For Leaders of the Next Generation, an organisation based in Switzerland that brings together influential figures from business, industry and policymaking across the globe. In 2018, I attended their symposium in Switzerland and found the experience so inspiring that I proposed hosting a similar event in Nepal. This year, we are organising a study tour under the theme ‘Envisioning Nepal 2030’, which I believe will open new doors for our country. With respected figures like Anil Chitrakar participating, it promises to be a platform for sparking innovative ideas and building international partnerships.

Throughout my journey, I have also felt deeply connected to the diplomatic community in Nepal. I believe in working closely with embassies to create a synergy that benefits all involved. The diplomatic missions in Nepal represent a bridge between our country and the world, offering opportunities to collaborate on sustainable projects that uplift communities and spur growth. My goal has always been to showcase Nepal not merely as a recipient of aid but as a vibrant partner capable of contributing to global initiatives. I have friends in Europe and the United States who encourage me to keep exploring and deepening these international ties.

Alongside my work in education and international partnerships, I am also working to support people with cerebral palsy through a self-help group. For the past 12 years, I have served as treasurer for this initiative, advocating for social entrepreneurship that makes a tangible difference in people’s lives. Recently, we launched Green Card Investment, an investment company, envisioning a model that allows Nepalis living abroad to invest back home. This initiative, though in its early stages, promises to create jobs and foster economic resilience in Nepal.

Every day, I feel fortunate to work with an incredible team within the International Dialogue Forum, where we engage with leaders from diverse fields to spark ideas and drive change. Over 30 alumni from around the world are participating in STARS, and they will bring their expertise back to Nepal, helping us address the unique challenges we face as a country. Our vision is not just about economic growth but about creating opportunities for a wide range of people, including those who have historically been marginalised or overlooked.

My father inspired my curiosity about the world

Reflecting on my journey, I often think of my father, who used to listen to BBC news, and how he inspired my curiosity about the world. I remember him talking about East and West Germany and the Berlin Wall, which sparked my desire to see the world beyond Nepal. Today, I am humbled to have visited Germany and many other European countries multiple times, forging connections that I hope will benefit Nepal in the years to come.

As I look back on my life, I realise that ambition isn’t always about having grand plans from the start; sometimes, it’s about making the best of each opportunity and striving to bring positive change wherever you are. From humble beginnings, I have found myself on a journey I could never have anticipated, a journey that has taught me the importance of education, resilience and a spirit of service. I may not have achieved everything I set out to do but I am grateful for each experience and the privilege to contribute to my country in any way I can.

If there is one lesson I would like to share, it is that no matter where you start, dedication and a commitment to learning can take you far. Nepal may be small, but our dreams and potential are boundless, and I am honoured to be part of this journey to build a better future for all.

Personal growth and transformation are constants in my life

Reflecting on my journey, I see that personal growth and transformation are constants in my life. In my 20s, I thought I understood the world, but my perspective was limited. Today, with experiences abroad and rich connections across cultures, I have gained not just knowledge but the ability to appreciate diversity. This diversity, I have come to realise, is a source of beauty and strength. Every encounter has helped me grow, teaching me that different interests and perspectives are vital to a fuller life.

I find myself gravitating toward social entrepreneurship rather than financial gain. For me, wealth is not about money but about impact. Inspired by my father, a man deeply respected in our community, I often ponder: how many lives will feel my absence when I am gone? My father's legacy in community service continues to guide me. It reminds me that true success lies in uplifting others and making a difference that resonates beyond oneself. This belief drives my work, especially in community-focused projects that prioritise social impact over profit.

One project I am particularly proud of is our initiative in community upliftment. Through this, we work to support underprivileged communities worldwide, reaching regions across Asia, Africa and beyond. Many organisations, particularly in the western world, see this as an opportunity for cultural exchange and learning. They come to understand the challenges others face, recognising their own privilege in the process. This project isn't merely about development; it is about building empathy and bridging worlds.

At the heart of our work are community schools. We have set up innovation labs that serve as hubs for environmental projects, technology development and entrepreneurship training. Our activities span tree planting to tech education, tackling local issues while fostering creativity and resilience among the youth. The idea is to nurture minds that can think critically and contribute meaningfully to society.

In reflecting on my values, ‘people, planet and profit’ emerge as guiding principles. People come first because human connections are fundamental. Everything we do must benefit humanity as a whole. Planet follows, as it is our responsibility to leave a sustainable world for the next generation. This world is livable now, and with conscious effort, we can make it even better for those who come after us. The last, profit, serves as a reminder that while financial sustainability is essential, it should never come at the expense of people or the planet.

Thinking broadly about humanity's journey, I feel optimistic. Looking back over centuries, the world today is a vastly better place. Despite our current challenges, we have overcome wars, famine and extreme hardship, and each generation has made strides toward a more compassionate and interconnected world. In my youth, we rarely encountered people who lived past their eighties. Today, lifespans have increased, quality of life has improved, and even in remote areas, technology has brought about enormous changes. This shift isn't unique to Nepal; it is a global trend. While challenges like climate change loom, I am hopeful that innovation and a renewed focus on sustainability will guide us through.

It is an exhilarating time, too, with advancements in AI and technology. They open up endless possibilities, not only in efficiency but in enhancing quality of life. For instance, countries like Israel have leveraged technology to revolutionise agriculture, achieving food self-sufficiency with minimal labour. If we can adopt similar models, there is no limit to what our communities can achieve. I believe the next generation will have even more tools to shape a prosperous, balanced future.

True leadership is collaborative

Leadership, in my view, is less about power and more about teamwork and empowerment. True leadership is collaborative; it is about bringing people together, aligning them with a shared vision, and fostering a sense of belonging and purpose. I do not see myself as a leader in the traditional sense. Instead, I aim to create a team dynamic where every member feels valued and heard. Happy, engaged teams can accomplish more than any individual effort.

Finally, my life philosophy centres on relationships and empathy. I strive to view situations from others' perspectives, not just my own. In business and in life, this approach fosters understanding and collective growth. As Dale Carnegie said, most people spend 90% of their time focused on 10% of negativity. I choose instead to focus on the good, investing my energy where it can uplift and inspire.

When I reflect on my sources of inspiration, my father’s legacy stands out. His compassion, integrity and dedication to community service continue to motivate me. I want to honour his contributions by expanding his impact on a global scale. His life reminds me that the mark we leave on others is the truest measure of a life well-lived.

Every step in my journey has been a learning process, filled with mistakes, resilience and gratitude. I wake up each day with a sense of purpose, embracing the life I have been given. I hope to make the world a little brighter, one small act at a time, and to inspire others to do the same. This journey is ongoing, and I am eager to see where it leads.

As I look back on my life, I realise that ambition isn’t always about having grand plans from the start; sometimes, it’s about making the best of each opportunity and striving to bring positive change wherever you are. From humble beginnings, I have found myself on a journey I could never have anticipated, a journey that has taught me the importance of education, resilience and a spirit of service. I may not have achieved everything I set out to do but I am grateful for each experience and the privilege to contribute to my country in any way I can.