A Journey of Leadership and Service: Honoring Som Nath Sapkota at the NRNA Global Conclave 2025

The NRNA Global Conclave 2025 was a proud moment for the global Nepali diaspora, bringing together leaders, delegates, and community builders from across the world. Among the highlights of the event was a special recognition ceremony where the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) honored all founding presidents of NRNA National Coordination Councils (NCCs). This historic gesture acknowledged the foundational role played by early leaders in building the NRNA movement around the globe.

Among the distinguished honorees was Som Nath Sapkota, recognized by Prime Minister of Nepal, K.P. Sharma Oli for his pioneering contributions in establishing and strengthening NRNA’s presence across Europe.

A Lifelong Commitment to NRNA

Som Nath Sapkota’s formal engagement with NRNA began in 2005, when he served as an Executive Member of NRNA NCC Portugal. Inspired by the vision of unity and collective effort, he became a founding general member of NRNA and has since played a leading role in nurturing its mission of empowering the global Nepali diaspora.

In 2009, he founded NRNA NCC Denmark, serving as its Founding President (2009–2010). For him, this was more than institution-building—it was about creating an inclusive platform where Nepalis in Denmark could connect, advocate, and contribute meaningfully to both their host society and their motherland. His leadership later extended to the formation of additional NCCs in Sweden, the Czech Republic, and Malta, underscoring his vision for a strong and united diaspora across Europe and beyond.

What sets Som Nath Sapkota apart is not just the positions he has held, but the causes he has championed. Despite having a background in student leadership during his time in Nepal, he has consistently maintained a non-political stance throughout his NRNA journey. When nominated as a Mahadhiveshan delegate from Denmark, he respectfully declined to uphold NRNA’s non-political integrity.

His visionary leadership is especially evident in the area of tourism promotion. As Chair of the NRNA Nepal Tourism Promotion Committee, he has worked relentlessly to elevate Nepal’s global tourism profile. He has served as the Honorary Public Relations Representative (HPRR) for Denmark and Malta, and in 2022, he was appointed Tourism Goodwill Ambassador to Wales by Nepal’s Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation. Today, he continues this work as Tourism Promoter for Wales, bridging international interest with Nepal’s heritage and natural beauty.

Championing Education and Welfare

Equally significant are Mr. Sapkota’s contributions to education and social welfare. As a leader of the NRNA e-Library Project, he has facilitated the establishment of over 120 digital libraries in schools across Nepal—especially in communities where NRNs once studied. These libraries have opened new doors of learning and opportunity for countless students.

He also served as Chair of the Foreign Employment Relief Fund, advocating for the rights and dignity of Nepali migrant workers, especially those in legal distress or imprisonment. He has worked closely with the Government of Nepal to highlight these issues and bring about practical solutions for affected individuals and families.

A Global Citizen with a Heart in Nepal

Having lived in Europe for nearly 30 years, including in countries like Portugal, Denmark, and the United Kingdom, Mr. Sapkota continues to lead with purpose. He resides in Europe with his family and remains actively engaged in diaspora affairs across the continent. He is also an entrepreneur, personally invested in Nepal’s hospitality sector, and is a passionate advocate for greater NRN involvement in Nepal’s development through responsible investment.

An Honest, Straightforward Leader Promoting Unity

Som Nath Sapkota is widely known as a clear, honest, and straightforward leader with a friendly, approachable personality. Deeply respected for his non-political nature, he is often described as a “data bank of NRNA”—someone deeply connected to NRNs across the globe and consistently well-informed on community dynamics and concerns.

At a time when internal conflict and division have challenged the unity of the NRNA, Mr. Sapkota has emerged as a bridge-builder, actively working to restore trust, foster unity, and steer the organization back to its founding values of inclusion, service, and collective strength.

A Legacy in the Making

Som Nath Sapkota is more than a leader—he is a visionary who embodies the core values of unity, service, and accountability. His journey is a testament to what committed individuals can achieve when driven by integrity and a deep love for their homeland.

As the NRNA moves forward, voices like his will remain vital in guiding the organization through changing times. His recognition at the NRNA Global Conclave 2025—as part of a broader tribute to all founding NCC presidents—is not just a celebration of past achievements, but a call to action for future generations of NRNs to lead with heart, humility, and vision.