Inspired To Explore

Stephanie is a lifelong educator, program leader, and desert adventurer with two decades of nonprofit and outdoor experience. Whether managing off-grid glamping retreats, developing environmental curricula, or hiking deep into the backcountry, her work centers around one thing: connecting people to place.

Dr. Rachel Knotts, a Newark-based leadership coach, speaker, and Academic Counselor at Delaware Technical College, joins Inspired to Explore as a volunteer member of our Leadership & Wellness team. Her expertise in coaching, training, and DISC assessment will enhance our nature-powered productivity offerings and expand our impact in communities worldwide.

Ang Dawa Sherpa has spent his life in the mountains. Born and raised in a remote Himalayan village, he became a world-class high-altitude guide, community leader, and a proud representative of Sherpa culture.

Prabin Pandey is a passionate advocate for community engagement with over a decade of experience in the nonprofit sector. He enjoys outdoor activities and exploring new places, often seeking opportunities that bring people of all ages together. Driven by a strong commitment to making a positive impact, Prabin dedicates his work and personal interests to building stronger, more connected communities.

Melina Dhital is an undergraduate student at Penn State University pursuing a B.S. in Biology with a minor in Psychological Sciences. She is a student-athlete specializing in long-distance running on the women’s cross country and track & field team. Melina serves as a Project Coordinator at BCH, contributing to suicide prevention and mental health initiatives, while also working as a Patient Care Technician at UPMC Harrisburg. In addition, she is a licensed real estate agent and the founder of Snap My Moments, a photography business fueled by her creative passion.

Bhim Bhattarai is a passionate outdoor enthusiast and community leader, currently serving in a management role at Inspired 2 Explore. He helps organize inclusive hiking events that connect people of all experience levels with nature. Bhim is also pursuing both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Cybersecurity at Penn State, with plans to graduate in just four years. Committed to self-improvement and lifelong learning, he thrives on new challenges and meaningful connections.

Sayuj Shakya is a Nepali-American community leader whose journey from Kathmandu to New Hampshire reflects a lifelong commitment to service, resilience, and personal growth. With a background in human services and a passion for the outdoors, he brings both compassion and leadership to his volunteer role at Inspired to Explore, where he supports program development and event management. A certified Wilderness First Responder, Sayuj blends outdoor expertise with a deep dedication to helping others navigate challenges and connect with nature.

Manju Gurung is a licensed Property & Casualty Insurance Agent and Nail Technician whose career blends expertise in insurance and beauty with a passion for personal care. A resilient adventurer who thrives on solo hikes and adrenaline-filled experiences, her journey from a refugee camp to professional success reflects strength, growth, and heart.

Hementa Adhikari who goes by Hemi loves outdoor adventures and believes in the power of exploration to inspire personal growth and resilience.

From refugee to IT leader, the journey of Tika Sapkota (who goes by "Ankit") is one of resilience and transformation. Ankit fuses his technical skills with a dedication to spiritual growth and outdoor adventure, culminating in a commitment to guide others towards fulfilling careers and mental wellness. He believes in the power of "Spiritual Science" to heal the mind, body and soul.

With a background in healthcare and a heart shaped by resilience, Dom bridges his professional knowledge with his passion for connection. He brings people from different generations and walks of life: educators, artists, clinicians, students, into dialogue with each other and with nature itself. For Dom, the wilderness is not an escape but an invitation: to reflect, to heal, and to imagine new ways forward.

Neil Bhandari is the visionary founder of Inspired to Explore, a nonprofit born from his own journey of transformation—from refugee to entrepreneur, and from personal struggle to outdoor advocate. His life reflects the belief that nature heals, challenges empower, and purpose-driven exploration can unlock resilience in us all. Through Inspired to Explore, Neil leads a vibrant community toward growth, connection, and the joy of discovering what lies beyond the summit.