Som Prasad Paneru

Biography

Som Paneru is the president of Nepal Youth Foundation, a 501 (c)(3) non-profit from the USA. He is a Social Entrepreneur from Nepal who has been working with NYF since 1995. The NYF focuses on empowering underprivileged children and youth in Nepal through initiatives such as providing access to quality education and healthcare, child protection, and youth empowerment. A standout achievement under Som's leadership was his leading role in spearheading a successful anti-slavery movement in Nepal. This movement targeted the Kamlari Practice, liberating over 12,000 young girls from slavery and advocating for its abolition. Som emphasizes sustainable solutions to social problems, evident in initiatives like setting up Nutritional Rehabilitation Homes, establishing vatious schools and creating the Olgapuri Children’s Village along with a Vocational School. The newest project he is leading is the Caste Equality Project which is a comprehensive community development to uplift lives of Dalits.