Vivek Singh Thakuri is a distinguished professional with nearly three decades of experience in strategic communication, research, and leadership. As the Executive Director of MITRA Samaj, he has exemplified exceptional leadership, guiding the organization in its mission to promote social change and development.
With a remarkable track record in both the private and non-profit sectors, Vivek has worked in senior leadership roles across well-respected organizations such as A C Nelson, Family Health International (FHI), Population Services International (PSI), and Britain Nepal Medical Trust (BNMT). His leadership acumen is complemented by his visionary approach to bridging the gap between the public and private sectors through his ventures, including Vision Three Sixty Pvt Ltd, a social enterprise, and Headline Nepal Media Pvt. Ltd., an influential media outlet.
Vivek’s leadership extends beyond organizational management; he has made significant contributions to research, social and behavior change communication (SBCC), and social marketing. His strategic direction in these areas has led to the successful development and implementation of various high-profile projects aimed at improving public health, sanitation, education, and gender equality. His ability to mobilize resources, influence policy, and advocate for sustainable change has garnered respect both nationally and internationally.
His expertise in SBCC has been instrumental in driving large-scale campaigns on issues like hygiene, sanitation, COVID-19 prevention, and girls' education. His role in guiding the development of social marketing strategies, especially in the health and sanitation sectors, highlights his comprehensive understanding of the intricacies of communication and its power to effect positive societal change.
In addition to his leadership in research and communication, Vivek has a wealth of academic qualifications, including a PhD candidacy at Singhaniya University in Rajasthan, India. His academic pursuits complement his hands-on experience, allowing him to contribute thought leadership to the fields of organizational performance and development.
Vivek Singh Thakuri’s leadership is characterized by a blend of vision, strategic thinking, and a deep commitment to social and behavioral change. His ongoing work continues to shape the landscape of development in Nepal and beyond, making him a key figure in fostering sustainable, positive change in the region.
Latshering Glan Tamang is a research and communication expert with over 17 years of progressive experience in leading, managing, and executing multi-sectoral research initiatives across Nepal. Currently serving as the Deputy Executive Director at MITRA Samaj, Latshering brings a unique blend of leadership, research proficiency, and media expertise to his work.
With an academic background that includes a Master’s in Mass Communication and Journalism and ongoing doctoral studies in Public Health Administration, Latshering has successfully led more than 38 research and evaluation assignments. His work spans diverse topics such as public health, social accountability, disaster risk reduction, and gender-based violence, with key collaborations involving international organizations like USAID, WHO, Save the Children, and WaterAid.
Latshering's leadership shines through his role in overseeing large-scale research projects and his strategic input into communication campaigns. He has directed several studies on critical issues like hygiene, health promotion, and family planning, while ensuring that research outcomes are impactful, ethical, and aligned with global best practices. His focus on social behavior change communication (SBCC) and media advocacy has helped drive significant behavioral shifts across communities, particularly in the areas of sanitation, health, and social inclusion.
In addition to his research expertise, Latshering has a strong media and communication background. As the former Editor of WAVE Magazine, Nepal’s leading English youth magazine, he directed the editorial vision for 96 successful issues. His extensive media experience also includes content creation, radio presenting, and media monitoring, where he worked on key campaigns in sectors like sexual and reproductive health, HIV/AIDS, and disaster response.
Latshering’s leadership, coupled with his solid research foundation and media expertise, positions him as a highly influential figure in driving social change through effective communication and evidence-based research.