Yume Towhida is a dynamic global professional currently based in Japan, blending cross-cultural perspective with innovation leadership. She holds an MBA in Innovation Management from Hosei University and has rapidly emerged as a community builder and program lead at Venture Café Tokyo, as well as Community Manager at Tokyo Innovation Base.

Yume has completed rigorous training including the Le Wagon Tokyo software development program and brings strategic insight into entrepreneurship, technology, and ecosystem development. Passionate about building bridges between Bangladesh and Japan, she writes and speaks on economic partnership, trade, and global collaboration. Her journey reflects resilience, curiosity, and commitment to international impact.

Samanata Thapa is a dynamic social entrepreneur and gender advocate based in Kathmandu, Nepal. As the Co-founder and Head of Programs at Startup Discovery Asia (SDA), she designs and leads innovation programs focused on climate-tech, circular economy, and youth entrepreneurship across South Asia.

With over eight years of experience, Samanata has been instrumental in professionalizing Nepal’s domestic labor sector through Project Redefine and promoting ethical fashion via Haushala Creatives. A dedicated mentor, she serves on the boards of AIESEC in Nepal and the Women Leadership Summit, committed to building inclusive ecosystems that empower women and sustainable startups.