Yugesh Pradhanang

Yugesh is a seasoned development professional with over 20 years of expertise in urban development, local governance, and climate resilience. He has successfully led transformative projects for UNDP in crisis and middle-income countries such as Afghanistan, Ukraine, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Georgia. His work focuses on strengthening community resilience, enhancing sustainable livelihoods, promoting gender equality, and fostering climate adaptation in urban settings.

Currently serving as an International Programme Manager at UNDP Bangladesh, Yugesh has led a large urban programme to tackle urban poverty and improve climate resilience in 19 cities and municipalities. His efforts have mobilized four million urban poor, empowered local women leaders, promoted sustainable livelihoods, and developed innovative, community-led infrastructure that enhances climate resilience. He has pioneered affordable housing models, enabling low-income households to access secure and climate-resilient homes.

Yugesh's technical background in civil engineering, combined with a Master's degree in Sustainable Energy Systems, enables him to blend engineering solutions with strategic development approaches. He is widely recognized for his exceptional leadership, influence in policy development, and ability to mobilize resources for impactful projects. 

His proven track record of fostering stakeholder collaboration, engaging in high-level policy advocacy, and managing large-scale programs has consistently resulted in significant, long-lasting outcomes for vulnerable communities. He has also played a key role in the development of the National Urban Policy and delivered evidence-based models, including poverty mapping and vulnerability assessments, to guide effective planning in Bangladesh. With extensive regional expertise, an inclusive approach, and a steadfast commitment to sustainability, Yugesh drives urban and local development strategies that build climate resilience, improve governance, and enhance the well-being of marginalized populations globally.