On an inspiring day, December 17, 2024, Engineers Without Borders Nepal (EWB Nepal) welcomed Sanjiv Indran, the youngest-ever President of Engineers Without Borders International (EWB-I) and President of Engineers Without Borders Malaysia (EWB Malaysia). The informal meet-and-greet session was a vibrant exchange of ideas, filled with insights, stories, and a shared passion for creating sustainable change.
The event was made even more special by the active participation of representatives from EWB Nepal’s university chapters. Their presence underscored the enthusiasm and dedication of young engineers across the country. It provided an invaluable opportunity for these emerging leaders to engage directly with Sanjiv, learning from his experiences and gaining inspiration to drive impactful initiatives within their own chapters.
During the session, Sanjiv addressed a common misconception about Engineers Without Borders, emphasizing that EWB is not just for engineers. He encouraged everyone to embrace the “Without Borders” ethos, highlighting the inclusivity that defines the organization. Sanjiv shared how EWB welcomes individuals from all disciplines, uniting people with a shared passion for making a difference and fostering innovative solutions.
Sanjiv also shared his journey from being a university student in Malaysia to becoming a global leader. With a passion for experiential learning, he co-founded EWB Malaysia during his university days, combining meaningful work with hands-on experiences. Recognizing the potential of university students to stay engaged longer than professionals, Sanjiv spearheaded initiatives that built practical skills while benefiting communities. Through trial and error, his team refined their approach to project implementation, ensuring consistent impact. Projects in the Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) sector stand out as transformative examples of their dedication.
Reflecting on his motivations, Sanjiv shared that the driving force behind his work is the lives he impacts. He emphasized the importance of waking up with happiness and passion for one’s work, reminding everyone that this spirit is essential to creating lasting change. His words resonated deeply, inspiring all those present to find purpose and joy in their endeavors.
Sanjiv also offered practical advice on volunteer retention; a challenge faced by many organizations. He shared strategies for fostering a welcoming and engaging environment, including team-building activities like movie nights, treks, and informal gatherings. By creating a sense of camaraderie and belonging, EWB Malaysia has successfully cultivated long-term commitment among its volunteers—a model that resonated strongly with the attendees.
Adding a personal touch, Sanjiv recounted his recent trek to Everest Base Camp, where he reached an altitude of 5,364 meters on December 8, 2024. His adventurous spirit reflects his bold and resilient leadership style, inspiring attendees to approach challenges with determination and a sense of exploration.
The session was a testament to Sanjiv’s humility, passion, and authenticity. His assurance of continued collaboration and support for EWB Nepal was deeply encouraging, strengthening the connection between EWB chapters and reinforcing the shared mission of creating sustainable solutions.
The involvement of EWB Nepal’s chapters, combined with Sanjiv’s inspirational journey, made the meet-and-greet a memorable and impactful event. It served as a reminder of the power of collaboration and the importance of nurturing young leaders in driving meaningful change.
EWB Nepal is grateful for the opportunity to host Sanjiv and to learn from his insights and experiences. As we look ahead, we are more motivated than ever to continue our work, inspired by the passion and perseverance that define leaders like Sanjiv Indran. Together, we will engineer a brighter future for Nepal and beyond.
