Irina Sthapit is one of the judges for this year’s hackathon, a senior e-learning specialist at Ohio State University, co-founder of Ajis, and a powerhouse behind Nepali Women+ in Computing.
Her story? It’s one of curiosity, resilience, and a whole lot of giving back.
🔧 From Torchlight Helper to Tech Trailblazer
Irina’s journey started in Nepal — not in a computer lab, but by holding a flashlight for her dad, a mechanical engineer. She didn’t know it at the time, but those early moments tinkering with tools lit the first spark of what would become a lifelong passion.
She pursued Electronics and Communication Engineering at Kathmandu Engineering College and took her first professional leap at Khaanpin, an ed-tech company. That’s where she found a new calling — making STEM education fun and accessible for kids.
From designing robotics and coding workshops for middle schoolers to realizing how transformative education could be, Irina discovered that engineering wasn’t just about fixing things — it was about empowering people.
🎓 From Kathmandu to Stanford (with a Few Bumps Along the Way)
Irina took a leap and came to the U.S. to earn her Master’s in Learning Design & Technology from Stanford University. The transition wasn’t easy.
“It was a roller coaster. Life in the U.S. — the education system, work culture — it’s all so different.”
But she pushed through, even navigating COVID-era uncertainties that sent her briefly back to Nepal. She worked with Fusemachines before returning to the U.S., where she now works at Ohio State University, helping faculty build better online learning experiences.
👩🏽💻 A Voice for Nepali Women+ in Tech
Outside her day job, Irina co-founded Nepali Women+ in Computing — an initiative that began out of necessity.
“We didn’t see many women who looked like us, who did what we did. So, we created the community we needed.”
From mentorship programs to monthly story features of Nepali women in STEM, the organization is all about visibility and support. Irina’s especially proud of the 30+ inspiring stories archived online — a growing database of relatable role models for the next generation.
🌍 Representing Nepal on the Global Stage
Irina’s voice goes far beyond the tech community. She’s represented Nepal on global platforms like the UN, Asia Foundation, and U.S. State Department’s International Visitor Leadership Program, sharing insights about women in STEM and advocating for more inclusive, collaborative futures.
“I realized I had a voice — and I needed to use it to uplift others.”
🧠 Why She Said Yes to Judging the Hackathon
When asked why she joined the Nepal-US AI Hackathon as a judge, Irina didn’t hesitate.
“It was a no-brainer. The passion, the purpose, the idea of building what matters — I had to be part of it.”
🔎 What She’s Hoping to See From Participants
Irina is most excited to see diverse ideas with a clear sense of purpose.
“Don’t just tell us what you’re building — tell us why. Who are you building for? Why does it matter right now?”
She wants to see teams back their ideas with real user insight, inclusivity, and intention.
🌱 Her Advice to First-Time Hackers
Nervous? That’s okay. Irina has a simple message for you:
“One day or day one — your choice. If this is your first hackathon, kudos to you for showing up. Just do your best, keep learning, and don’t stop here.”
Irina’s story reminds us that you don’t have to stay in one lane. You can explore, evolve, and make space for others along the way. From torchlight days in Nepal to judging AI innovation in the U.S., her journey is proof that when you lead with curiosity and heart — amazing things happen.
We’re incredibly lucky to have her as a judge. And we can’t wait to see what this year’s hackers build — especially when role models like Irina are watching