Kathmandu Deputy Mayor Sunita Dangol Selected as Young Global Leader 2025 by World Economic Forum

Kathmandu Metropolitan City’s Deputy Mayor, Sunita Dangol, has been selected as a Young Global Leader (YGL) for 2025 by the World Economic Forum (WEF). She is among 116 young leaders under the age of 40 selected globally across various fields such as culture, heritage, sports, business, social service, and politics.

From South Asia, only 11 individuals were chosen, with Dangol being the sole representative from Nepal. She is also one of 19 individuals selected globally from the political field. Other political figures selected include Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and India’s Minister of Civil Aviation, Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu.

The World Economic Forum's Young Global Leaders network is a prestigious platform that brings together exceptional individuals with a vision for a better future. Thousands apply each year, but only a select few are chosen.

Expressing her pride in being selected, Dangol said,

> “I am deeply honored to represent Nepal on such a global stage as a young leader. Youth are the real agents of change, and as someone who believes in the power of youth, I feel this selection is a representation of all young people.”

She added,

“This recognition brings greater responsibility and inspires me to do even better in my current role.”

Dangol, who won the title of Miss Newa 2011, is also known for her work in promoting and preserving indigenous scripts. Along with her team, she led public awareness campaigns using the Ranjana script, organizing workshops in neighborhoods, streets, and public spaces. These efforts expanded the reach of the script from the Kathmandu Valley to international platforms through the “Callijatra” movement.

Her leadership in preserving local scripts and heritage, along with her role as Deputy Mayor of Kathmandu, were key factors in her selection as a Young Global Leader. The selection committee noted her as:

“An energetic leader dedicated to promoting cultural heritage, empowering youth, and driving urban innovation—committed to inclusive governance and amplifying the voices of diverse communities in Kathmandu.”