From engineer to development leader: Mr. Achyut Luitel’s Journey
An inspiring journey of Nepal Advisory Board Member Mr. Achyut Luitel
By Naresh Newar
Mr. Achyut Luitel, a dedicated board member of One Heart Worldwide's Nepal Advisory Board, has a passion for improving lives that extends far beyond the boardroom. His journey began not in the world of healthcare but in the field of engineering. "I am trained as an engineer," Mr. Luitel shares, "but the health sector always fascinated me." This fascination, coupled with a deep-seated desire to contribute to social change, led him down a path that would eventually lead him to join One Heart Worldwide’s journey.
Starting as a government official, Mr. Luitel transitioned to the development sector, moving up quickly in various leadership positions in international non-government organizations since 1994. He was driven by a desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of rural communities. His early work addressed the critical lack of potable water and sanitation facilities, recognizing their fundamental role in public health.
A passion for community engagement
"The rural communities needed a lot of support," he recalls, highlighting the challenges faced by these underserved populations. His approach to community engagement was rooted in active listening and collaboration, ensuring that local voices were heard and their needs addressed. He worked alongside communities, understanding their unique challenges and aspirations and involving them in every step of the development process.
His passion for improving rural livelihoods then led him to infrastructural building, and he facilitated the construction of village roads and implemented livelihood programs. "We helped the government and local governments to make the village roads," he explains, emphasizing the importance of connectivity and economic opportunities for rural communities. Here, too, he prioritized community involvement, ensuring that projects were not only beneficial but also owned and sustained by the communities themselves.
Fostering teamwork and collaboration
Throughout his career, Mr. Luitel's leadership philosophy has centered on empowering individuals and fostering collaboration. "I really believe in people," he affirms, highlighting his commitment to building strong teams and creating supportive work environments. He emphasizes the importance of open communication, mutual respect, and recognizing individual strengths. "My door was always open for my colleagues," he shares, reflecting his approachable and inclusive leadership style. He believes in creating spaces where everyone feels comfortable sharing ideas, voicing concerns, and contributing their unique talents.
Engagement with One Heart Worldwide
Mr. Luitel's journey eventually led him to One Heart Worldwide, where he found our work aligned with his passion for improving health outcomes, particularly for mothers and newborns. Mr. Luitel shares how he deeply admires OHW’s work in Nepal, stating, "They are doing an amazing job...helping the government…establishing birthing centers, providing training and equipment." He believes our approach of strengthening existing healthcare systems and collaborating with local communities is key to creating sustainable and impactful change. This resonates with his own belief in the power of partnerships and community-driven development.
Mr. Luitel is particularly inspired by the positive feedback from local communities and healthcare workers who have benefited from One Heart Worldwide's initiatives. "They are very happy with the way...One Heart Worldwide was working with them," he shares, emphasizing the organization's commitment to community engagement and collaboration. He believes that true progress can only be achieved when communities are actively involved in shaping their futures.
His dedication to One Heart Worldwide stems from a deep understanding of the challenges faced by mothers and newborns in Nepal and a belief that everyone deserves access to quality healthcare. He urges donors to recognize the importance of investing in maternal and neonatal health, particularly in Nepal, where the need is significant.
"If you really want to help underprivileged people, then obviously more investments should be done in the health and education sector," he states. He highlights the alarming maternal and infant mortality rates in Nepal, emphasizing the urgent need for increased support. He believes that investing in organizations like One Heart Worldwide is crucial to addressing these challenges and creating lasting change.
Passion for innovation
Mr. Luitel's story is one of hard work, innovation, inspiring leadership, and a genuine desire to make a positive impact in his country. He is a strong advocate for innovation in development work, believing that it is essential for finding effective and sustainable solutions to complex challenges. "Innovation doesn't come easily," he acknowledges, "but you can really think about some new ideas when you brainstorm." He encourages drawing inspiration from local knowledge, collaborating with universities, and fostering a creative thinking culture. He shares his experience with Integrated Water Resource Management as an example of how innovative approaches can be successfully implemented and replicated to benefit communities.
Words of wisdom for young professionals
For young people aspiring to become development professionals, Mr. Luitel offers this advice: "You need to have passion," he emphasizes, highlighting the importance of dedication and a genuine desire to make a difference. He also encourages them to connect with communities, understand local contexts, and build trust. "You should speak their language, eat like them, sleep like them," he suggests, highlighting the importance of cultural sensitivity and empathy.
