Session VIII: Digi-Himalayas - Digitalization, Digitization and Digital Transformation
The digital landscape in the Himalayan region is evolving, presenting promising opportunities amidst unique challenges. While traditionally known for its natural beauty and cultural richness, this region is gradually embracing technological advancements, paving the way for several multifaceted opportunities. Leveraging these technological opportunities thoughtfully and sustainably holds the potential to empower communities, drive economic growth, and preserve the region's rich heritage and ecological diversity. This session will thereby discuss this very scope of digitalization, digitization, and digital transformation in the region, with experts from the sector sharing their experiences and discussing paths for the future.
Gayani Hurulle
Consultant - Digital Development
World Bank
Gayani Hurulle is a Consultant with the World Bank's Digital Development Global Practice. She is also a Senior Manager at LIRNEasia. She has led mixed-methods research projects, supported the drafting of national policies, and facilitated capacity building programmes for governments across South and Southeast Asia.
Abhishek Rungta
Founder & CEO
Indus Net Technologies
Abhishek Rungta is not only a business luminary but also a devoted mountain enthusiast. His passion for the majestic peaks goes beyond boardrooms, as he embraces the challenges of high-altitude adventures. His relentless pursuit of growth and success mirrors the elevation he seeks in both business and the Himalayas.
Rupesh Shrestha
Chief Operating Officer
XUNO Inc.
Passionate about Fintech innovation, as the COO at Xuno, Rupesh Shrestha focuses on delivering cost-effective, transparent, and seamless alternatives to traditional cross-border payment and banking solutions. With over twelve years of experience, he has taught courses in New Venture Creation, Entrepreneurship and Innovation at Kathmandu University School of Management (KUSOM) to MBA students. Rupesh also co-founded Idea Studio Nepal, a national-level entrepreneurship platform, and established the first academia business incubator in Nepal at KUSOM.
Tshering Cigay
Executive Vice President
SELISE Digital Platforms
Tshering Cigay, a technology thought leader with dual interests in engineering and social sciences, works as the Executive Vice President of SELISE Digital Platforms, a Swiss FDI software company in Bhutan. He is known for leading Thimphu TechPark, Bhutan’s first Technology Park since its launch in 2012 till January 2022 and making it a vibrant place employing hundreds of youths.
MODERATOR
Saloni Sethia
CEO
MAW Music Pvt. Ltd.
Saloni Sethia founded MAW Music, an Audio Visual design and implementation consultancy and a leading distributor of audio-video equipment and musical instrument brands in Nepal. Starting with a 500 sq. ft. store in 2016, she has grown the revenue tenfold, showcasing her can-do attitude. Starting her career at Google, she leads Growth and Operations at Vie Tec alongside MAW music. She also hosts a career podcast for women called Unheard with Saloni.