Written by Oshin Maharjan
In Nepal, where stories of resilience and leadership often emerge from the everyday lives of its people, Manamaya Pangeni is a shining example of inspiration. Recognized as one of Nepal’s Integrity Icons, her journey is not just about remarkable achievements. Still, it is deeply rooted in the values instilled by her family and the profound lessons learned from the challenges she faced.
Manamaya’s understanding of integrity finds its roots in the nurturing environment of her home. Her parents laid the groundwork, imparting the essential values of honesty and ethical conduct. Childhood stories and moral narratives at school further reinforced the significance of integrity, shaping the foundation of her character. This narrative challenges the notion that extraordinary beginnings are necessary for leadership; instead, it highlights the transformative power of everyday lessons learned at home.
The pivotal figures in Manamaya’s life extend beyond her immediate family to her parents, maternal uncle, and grandparents. Figures like Keshav Prasad Regmi, who exemplified integrity and good governance, became her role models, guiding her toward ethical leadership. Yet, it’s not just the prominent figures that shape her leadership; the quiet support and motivation from her husband and mother-in-law inspire her to lead with humility. This serves as a reminder that genuine connections and shared values in everyday life often lay the groundwork for authentic leadership.
A Bold Stand Against Injustice
Manamaya’s journey takes an early turn towards justice during her teenage years. Witnessing societal injustices, from domestic violence to dowry-related murders, she took a bold step during her mid-teenage years. Despite facing threats, she reported a case of domestic violence in her neighborhood to the police. This early commitment to justice and integrity set the tone for her future endeavors, revealing a leadership style focused on making a real difference where it matters most rather than seeking the spotlight.
Empathy-Fueled Leadership and Impactful Moments
At the core of Manamaya’s leadership lies a profound sense of empathy. Advocating for dignified menstruation and addressing challenges women face in remote areas, her approach is marked by a genuine understanding of people’s struggles. Her leadership is not about dictating solutions; it’s about listening, understanding, and finding impactful solutions that resonate with the lives of those she serves.
Throughout her career, her commitment to integrity translated into transformative actions. From educating rural communities to personally rescuing a pregnant woman in critical condition, Manamaya exemplifies the profound impact of ethical leadership. As a Chief District Officer (CDO), her tenure included promoting gender-friendly decision-making processes and showcasing how integrity in leadership can bring positive change.
Overcoming Challenges with Grace
Manamaya faced the challenge of having her concerns ignored as the only woman in the office. Her belief in the power of her voice led to significant achievements, especially in advocating for dignified menstruation and addressing challenges faced by women in remote areas. Her leadership style emphasizes gender equality, motivation, and balancing work and personal life.
Becoming an Integrity Icon in 2021 opened new horizons for Manamaya. The campaign and Accountability Lab provided a platform to connect with new generations, motivate others, and share experiences as a keynote speaker. The most valuable aspect for her is the social recognition of being an Integrity Icon.
Leadership as a Journey, Not a Destination
For Manamaya, leadership is an ongoing journey, not a destination. The significance lies in the small, impactful moments that leave lasting impressions. A reprimand delivered to an official mistreating service seeker corrected the official’s behavior and marked a positive transformation in his life. Similarly, small gestures like offering a lift to a woman with speech impairment challenge conventional norms.
Manamaya offers valuable advice to young Nepalis who are considering a government career. Emphasizing the importance of in-depth studies on social media influences, she encourages recognizing one’s potential and transforming weaknesses into opportunities. Collaboration, innovation, and motivating others are crucial for meaningful change in government service.
Future Aspirations
Looking ahead, Manamaya aspires to take on more responsibilities while adhering to ethical principles. Her goal is to inspire the next generation and contribute to positive change. Her journey showcases the transformative power of integrity and leadership, proving that even small efforts can create a significant impact. Her down-to-earth nature serves as a reminder that true leadership begins with a genuine connection to the hearts and lives of the people you serve. Rooted in family values and shaped by personal experiences, Manamaya’s journey paints a vivid picture of dedication, resilience, and positive impact. She stands not just as an Integrity Icon but as a testament to the transformative potential of everyday leadership.