Written by Dridhata Silwal

Kalpana Adhikari is an Integrity Icon winner in Nepal whose remarkable journey from doubt to becoming a champion of integrity is a shining example of resilience, perseverance, and believing in oneself. Her story is not just a personal triumph but an inspiration for all who face challenges in pursuing a meaningful and ethical career. Kalpana’s journey is a testament to the power of integrity, the importance of empathy, and the transformative potential of dedication to a higher purpose.

Turning adversity into opportunity

Kalpana’s choice to enter the government sector was filled with doubt. She dreamed of entrepreneurship but found herself navigating a different path due to family expectations. However, what could have been a mere compromise became an opportunity for growth. A pivotal moment came when she led an all-women team on a road-widening project in Kathmandu. The project’s initiation was met with skepticism from the local community, who doubted their ability to succeed. But Kalpana and her team’s determination exceeded expectations and shifted the perception of those who had doubted them, winning the community’s respect. This experience ignited Kalpana’s passion for a more gender-inclusive bureaucratic system.

Significance of finding common ground with the public

Kalpana’s philosophy of bureaucrats as facilitators of solutions rather than authoritative figures reflects her commitment to empathy and understanding. Regardless of their position, their primary role is to execute the assigned tasks. Listening to the public’s concerns, acknowledging their needs, and addressing their issues have become her guiding principles. She sees “listening” not as a formality but as a genuinely powerful tool to grasp the core of the challenges at hand. While she was in Palpa, Kalpana listened to the stories of the locals who had given up their agricultural land to construct a road on Mandrang Hill. The project began eight years ago, but the previous staff were discouraged from working on the project due to the difficult terrain and risks involved. After listening to the locals’ stories and challenges, Kalpana and her team worked relentlessly, avoiding the risks with the locals’ help, and completed the construction of the road, reviving the community’s hopes. This empathetic strategy has proven invaluable in resolving conflicts, finding innovative solutions, and creating a more cooperative and productive environment.

Integrity Icon as a shield against the unethical approach

The recognition of being an Integrity Icon has had a significant impact on Kalpana’s professional life. It has bolstered her confidence and serves as a shield against unethical practices. She quotes, “I have seen the difference after Integrity Icon, contractors don’t even dare to delay the work nor can they make unethical proposals.” This positive influence has created a ripple effect, encouraging her colleagues and subordinates to uphold ethical values in their work. Kalpana’s commitment to integrity is not just a personal virtue; it’s a force for positive change in the professional sphere.

Way forward strategies; promoting research and innovation 

Kalpana’s dedication extends beyond her journey. She envisions a future where continuous learning, accountability, and empowerment create a virtuous progress cycle. She recognizes that Nepal has the potential to contribute significantly to the global knowledge landscape, but there’s a need to foster research and innovation. By encouraging and supporting research endeavors within her field, Kalpana aims to unleash Nepal’s potential and inspire a new generation of thinkers and innovators.

Drawing strength from the network: upholding integrity together

Kalpana understands the importance of unity and shared values. She draws inspiration from her fellow Integrity Icons, learning from their experiences and applying those lessons to her work. She recognizes that the legacy of the Integrity Icon campaign is a collective effort, and even the slightest misstep could undermine the trust placed in her and the entire network of good-doers. This awareness drives her to constantly improve and ensure the continued positive impact of the campaign.

Kalpana Adhikari’s journey isn’t just a personal story; it’s a beacon of hope, showing that one can make a difference with integrity, determination, and transformation. Her story connects with the desire for a meaningful impact, proving that a single individual can change the world for the better, step by step. Kalpana’s journey encourages us all to embrace challenges, champion honesty, and become agents of positive change in our spheres of influence.

Dridhata Silwal