Meet Akram Hussain Khan, a skilled data professional with a versatile background in data analysis. As a Research Assistant at the Institution for Inclusive Finance and Development, Akram excels in data cleaning, efficient categorization, and translation of complex case studies. Holding an M.Sc. in Statistics from Jahangirnagar University, he is committed to continuous learning and staying updated on the latest data management techniques. In his role at Cognitive Solution Bangladesh, Akram conducted rigorous data cleaning, applied advanced labeling techniques, and provided valuable insights through comprehensive data analyses. With a talent for creating visually compelling visualizations, he supported clear communication of complex information and contributed to data-driven decision-making.

Akram's strong communication skills, commitment to confidentiality, and dedication to continuous learning make him an invaluable team member. With a strategic approach to problem-solving, he brings a unique blend of academic excellence and practical experience to the team, poised to contribute significantly to the company's success and growth.

In his current role as a Statistician and Data Analyst, Akram Hussain Khan excels in data cleaning, real-time reviewing, and extraction of key insights. Leading teams in quantitative analysis interpretation, he ensures quality assurance, supports RFPs, conducts field research, and maintains high standards of confidentiality and timely delivery.

Bibeka Thapa is an accomplished GESI and development researcher with over a decade of experience leading inclusive, rights-based studies and Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) initiatives across South Asia. Her research covers a broad spectrum of development themes including gender-based violence, unpaid care work, labor migration, masculinities, LGBTIQ+ rights, and inclusive governance. She has led and co-led research and evaluations for UN Women, UNICEF, UNDP, The Asia Foundation, Plan International, VSO among others. Bibeka specializes in GESI-integrated M&E frameworks, participatory methodologies, and intersectional policy analysis. She has authored several publications on gender themes, labor migration, and violence, contributing to both academic discourse and development practice. In addition to her research roles, she serves as a part-time lecturer at the Central Department of Gender Studies, Tribhuvan University.

Bibhav is a visionary and impactful business person and M&E expert with over 19 years of experience in diverse fields. Bibhav's expertise spans business management, education, disaster risk reduction, gender equality, child protection, and livelihood. His leadership has spearheaded transformative projects and business globally. He holds a PhD in social impact leadership and has numerous op-eds and publications enrich the professional discourse. Bibhav’s business leadership is characterized by his exceptional ability to strategize and innovate globally across multiple domains. His years of management experience, spanning international projects and diverse thematic areas, highlight his adeptness in driving impactful initiatives and fostering sustainable growth.

Faith Mueni Musango is a qualitative researcher and field supervisor with substantial past experience in qualitative research implementation, field coordination, and data quality assurance within social and development research contexts. Her background includes extensive engagement in community-based studies, applying participatory and ethical qualitative approaches to generate credible and contextually grounded evidence. In her current role as Qualitative Researcher / Field Supervisor with Progress Inc., she is responsible for supervising qualitative fieldwork, training and guiding field teams, coordinating field logistics, and ensuring adherence to approved methodologies and ethical standards. Her skills and knowledge encompass in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, field supervision, data validation, and contribution to thematic analysis and reporting.

Her future goals center on advancing rigorous qualitative inquiry in evaluations and impact-focused research to support evidence-based programming and policy decisions. Her professional interests include gender equality, child protection, social inclusion, and rights-based research. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in International Business, Finance and Marketing and a Postgraduate Diploma in Project Management. Her country experience is in Kenya, and she demonstrates strong professional proficiency in English for research communication and reporting.

Gaurav Thapa is a Research Officer at Progress Inc., bringing strong expertise in both qualitative and quantitative research methods. With over two years of experience in agricultural economics, value chain development, and rural transformation, he has developed a solid track record of delivering evidence-based analysis. He holds an M.Sc. in Agricultural Economics from Banaras Hindu University, India and a B.Sc. in Agriculture from Rama University, India. Gaurav has several publications in peer-reviewed international journals, reflecting his commitment to high-quality academic research. His work focuses on value chain analysis, agricultural diversification, food security, and climate change adaptation in Nepal. He has previously worked with IFPRI and IIDS, contributing to major crop and livestock value chain studies and policy analysis. He also collaborated with Tufts University on heat-wave research and gained hands-on agricultural experience as a Farm Manager at Namuna Pashu Tatha Krishi Udhyog. Fluent in English and Nepali, Gaurav aims to advance impactful research that strengthens sustainable food systems and supports rural development across South Asia.

As an Admin and Finance Coordinator ,Habibul handles general office duties such as managing phone calls, emails, scheduling appointments, maintaining office supplies, and coordinating meetings, and also maintaining financial records, processing invoices, tracking expenses in Progress Inc. Bangladesh office since March 2023. He has over 2 years of experience in accounting, HR, procurement, office management and general administration, able to prioritize workload, address clients concerns , manage sales ledger, collect manage bills, and resolve administrative issues. He was an Executive in Billing and Credit Control for M2M Communications Ltd. in the past.
He has completed Knowledge level from The Institute of Cost and Management Accountants of Bangladesh (ICMAB) and He has completed both a Master in Social Science (MSS) and Bachelor in Social Science (BSS) degree, majoring in Social Work, from National University Bangladesh. He is fluent in English and native Bangla.

Jakaria Kowser is a highly experienced professional who holds Masters’ degrees in Business Administration and Professional Marketing from the University of Dhaka and works as a Legal Advisor at Progress Inc. He is also a Chartered Secretary licensed by the Institute of Chartered Secretaries of Bangladesh (ICSB). Mr. Kowser is an experienced Business Consultant and Entrepreneur with a demonstrated history of working in corporate management consulting, Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), information technology including e-commerce and EduTech startups, the education industry, and International Business.

Watila is an innovative, dynamic and experienced Social & Market researcher with 15+ years’ experience in supporting and managing high-impact research initiatives, activities, research projects, and research functions. His expertise spans across retail studies, consumer insights, financial surveys, anthropology, monitoring and evaluation, gender framework and designs, public health and community development. He holds a master’s degree in development anthropology from the University of Nairobi and is underway with a PHD in Anthropology from the same University. Watila has led and executed projects directly in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Sudan, South Sudan, Rwanda, Burundi, Djibouti, Nigeria, Malawi, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Mozambique, DRC and Ethiopia. He is equipped with broad multicultural experience and proficiency in utilizing multiple research approaches including quantitative, qualitative, ethnographic and human centered designs (HCD).

Watila is always keen to details and is inspired by the highly influential outcome research has played in provoking major decisions across organizations. He walks with his clients in all components of the research journey right from the inception to stakeholders’ meetings.

Jung (Jay) B. Chhetri is a hospitality-focused academic and operations professional with experience in Nepal’s education and service sectors. He has two years of experience managing academic operations at a hospitality education institution. His growing expertise spans academic administration, hospitality operations, stakeholder coordination, and service-oriented communication. With a background in Hospitality Management, Jung is committed to advancing his career at the intersection of hospitality, organizational development, and operational excellence. He will currently be engaged as a Business Operations Associate at Progress Inc., where he will apply his operational management, coordination, and administrative skills to improve organizational efficiency and support smooth internal workflows.

K.M. Zaiyyan Adil is a trailblazing researcher with over six years of extensive experience in the development sector, focusing on areas such as WASH, DRR, Gender, Access to Finance, Micro-finance, fecal sludge management, livestock, agriculture, and aquaculture. He completed his Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Science with a minor in Epidemiology from Independent University, Bangladesh. Zaiyyan is dedicated to addressing societal challenges through diligent work and data-centric methods. His skills include data management, quality control using various statistical software, and proficiency in developing innovative tools using platforms such as ODK and Kobocollect. Additionally, he excels in report writing, tool development, data collection, and monitoring, making him a valuable asset in any research endeavor.

As a Senior Research Associate at Progress Inc., Zaiyyan has contributed to over 20 Monitoring and Evaluation projects in more than 46 districts in Bangladesh. His proactive problem-solving attitude, coupled with a strong commitment to teamwork, ensures that projects are executed with precision and efficiency in a timely manner. Zaiyyan aims to significantly improve the organization's activities through collaborative efforts with the entire team, leveraging his expertise and determination.

Introducing our dedicated Account and Finance Coordinator, armed with a Master's degree in Accounting. With a solid background in accounting principles and methodologies, he brings invaluable experience from both the non-governmental organization (NGO) sector and Tax consultancy firm.

His expertise extends to financial reporting and accounting, where he ensures strict compliance with regulatory standards while optimizing financial processes for efficiency. Beyond his accounting expertise, he seamlessly transitions into administration management, efficiently coordinating operational tasks. Committed to upholding accuracy, integrity, and efficiency, he strives to drive financial excellence within our organization. With his comprehensive knowledge in accounting, taxation, and administrative management, he stands ready to make significant contributions to our success.

Micah Chebus is a graduate of Chuka University in Kenya, where he earned a Bachelor's degree in Economics and Statistics. He is a results-driven researcher with a deep-seated passion for conducting quantitative research, particularly within the realm of social issues. Over the past two years, Micah has diligently refined his skills in data collection and analysis, making substantial contributions to various research objectives. His belief is firmly rooted in the idea that comprehensive research processes and thorough exploration can serve as potent tools for solving societal issues, ultimately empowering communities and fostering positive societal change and lasting social impact.

With a strong commitment to the transformative potential of research, Micah Chebus envisions a world where complex societal challenges can be unraveled through meticulous inquiry. He believes that research is a beacon of hope, a means to empower societies, and a catalyst for positive change. His aspiration is to continue his journey, shaping a future where the intricacies of social issues are unveiled, and societies are equipped to embrace a brighter, more equitable tomorrow. Micah's dedication and passion make him a valuable asset in the pursuit of knowledge and societal betterment.

Milan Thapa is a dedicated Research Officer at Progress Inc., with interest in both quantitative and qualitative research, having academic background in public health sciences. With over two years of experience, he focuses on key areas such as non-communicable diseases, health behavior, menstrual justice, and GESI in health systems. Milan excels in designing impactful studies and engaging communities. His work with UNAIDS involved supporting the Country Coordinating Mechanism (CCM) Nepal for the 2024-2027 Global Fund funding request involving key stakeholders in Nepal’s national HIV, TB, and Malaria programs. He has also worked as a writing consultant and facilitator for research training and program implementation across various organizations.
Professionally active and licensed by the Nepal Health Professional Council, Milan is committed to advancing public health through innovative solutions and cross collaborations. He is also affiliated with organizations and initiatives like Healthcare Information for All (HIFA), NCD Watch Nepal, and Public Health Arena for health and research literacy.

Mohammad Baki Billah Khan joined Progress Inc. Bangladesh as an Intern-Research & Program in September 2023. Khan's expertise in field research, surveys, data management, and strong written and verbal communication skills will undoubtedly contribute to the success of research projects at the organization. Khan has earned his master's and bachelor's degrees both in Urban and regional planning from Jahangirnagar University, Bangladesh and is well-versed in urban and regional planning principles and methodologies. Khan brings a solid academic foundation in Urban and Regional Planning, with a keen interest in various aspects of sustainable development. He has a dedication to research and enthusiasm to contribute to societal progress. His research interest includes Sustainable Urban Development, Climate-Induced Development, Disaster Management and Affordable Housing, and Transportation Management. Along with the academic qualification and knowledge in the research field, Khan is a musician and also has proficiency in social media content management. Motivated and ambitious, Khan is eager to utilize academic knowledge and practical experience to contribute to Progress Inc. Bangladesh's research initiatives.

Neejan is a dedicated Research Officer at Progress Inc., with a strong focus on driving social impact and sustainability through research. With over five years of experience in the development sector, he has honed his skills in creating comprehensive assessment frameworks and managing projects to ensure successful outcomes. His ability to navigate compliance with regulations, coupled with strong communication and interpersonal skills, makes him an effective collaborator in research environments. With a proven track record of involvement in quantitative and qualitative studies across eight districts, Neejan demonstrates a steadfast dedication to creating impactful and sustainable change in the communities he works with.

Currently pursuing a Master’s in Sustainable Development from Kathmandu University, Neejan combines academic knowledge with practical expertise in management, leadership, and project execution for sustainable initiatives. His commitment to continuous learning is evident through certifications in environmental and social performance management, enhancing his capacity to contribute meaningfully to projects.

Neha is a research and evaluation expert with over 13 years of experience working with international development programmes to implement research using qualitative approaches. She has led research teams and provided technical assistance across a range of programmes in South Asia, Indonesia, and countries in Central and East Africa. Neha’s expertise is participatory and people- driven approaches that integrate elements of inclusion, informality, and a respect for people’s own knowledge and perspectives. She enjoys engaging with children, adolescents, and youth and making these engagements fun for them through the adaptation of traditional data collection approaches like focus group discussions to make them more participatory through the use of games and visuals. Her work has covered a range of themes like education, child protection, health, nutrition, WASH, social assistance, post-disaster recovery, and security.

Neha is a leading practitioner in the field of immersion-based research and evaluation, and has trained field teams in Nepal, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Malawi to undertake high-quality immersion research. She is also trained in other people-centered approaches like Transformative Storytelling and People Driven Design, an approach adapted from Human Centered Design.

Niruta Kumari Sahakari is our office helper, bringing energy, dedication, and a positive attitude to her role. She supports the smooth functioning of daily office operations, assisting with kitchen management, maintaining cleanliness, and ensuring the workspace remains comfortable and organized. While learning from her senior colleagues, Niruta has quickly become a reliable and approachable presence in the office. Her eagerness to help and attentive approach contribute to a pleasant and well-kept environment for the entire team.

Pooja is an experienced Global MEAL Expert with work experience in South Asia, Southeast Asia, Sub-Saharan and Northern Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East. With over a decade of hands-on experience in monitoring, evaluation, and learning, She is at the forefront of driving impactful research initiatives as the Founder/Director of Progress Inc. She has been actively engaged in over 100 research and evaluation projects, leading more than 80 of them, and her expertise spans across diverse development sectors, including GESI, education, livelihoods, WASH, DRR, shelter, food security, human trafficking, health and nutrition, relief and recovery, protection, and GBV.

Her commitment to innovation and utilization-focused practices has led her to successfully implement approaches like Utilization Focused Approach (UFA), Outcome Harvesting, and Process Tracing in evaluations.

Sammit is a policy researcher and development professional with around 5 years of experience working in research, project implementation and evidence-based policy support across governance and local economic development. His interest and past work have focused on understanding and overcoming the socioeconomic realities of women and marginalized communities through research, awareness programs and GEDSI mainstreaming in local governance. He was also the member of the research team formed to draft Industrial Policy for Karnali Province, Nepal. He has extensive experience working in policy analysis, research design and statistical analysis. Sammit holds Bachelor’s in Commerce (Major: Economics) from University of Wollongong and Masters in Public Policy and Management (Specialization: Development Policy) from Kathmandu University. He is a native Nepali speaker and fluent in English.

Shanti Thapa Magar is our invaluable office helper who has been with us for an impressive three years. Shanti takes care of various essential tasks, including managing our office kitchen, maintaining cleanliness, and ensuring our office space remains in impeccable condition. Her workable nature and charming demeanor make her an integral part of our team. Shanti's attention to detail and commitment extend to taking care of all our eateries, ensuring that everyone enjoys a well-organized and pleasant workspace.

Sumaiya Akter is an articulate, confident person who relishes challenge and working under pressure. Her academic background has inspired her to build a career in research in Development Sector. She is a gender expert and qualitative researcher by training. Over the last 4 years, she has gained extensive research and evaluation experience in the areas of gender-based violence (GBV), child marriage, women empowerment, gender & DRR, gender & climate change. She has managed more than 10 projects either as project focal or one of key experts.  Prior to Progress Inc, Sumaiya worked with the Centre for Research and Development (CRD) as a Senior Officer – Research & Evaluation.

She has completed her graduation and post-graduation in Women and Gender Studies from University of Dhaka. She has expertise in facilitating field data collection in several research projects under the supervision of Professors during her academic years. She also worked as a youth ambassador at Center for Men and Masculinities Studies (CMMS) in promoting Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR) awareness among adolescents. She conducted her academic research monograph on “Entrepreneurship of Rural Women through Microcredit”. She is particularly interested in qualitative and quantitative research on gender, livelihood and disaster risk reduction. She has sportsmanship and got Silver Medal for National Yoga Championship in 2019. She is an adept trekker and adventurous individual.

Being a young researcher, Sumaiya can manage work pressure efficiently. She prefers to work under low supervision. Sumaiya can be reached through sumaiyar@progressinccompany.com

Supriya is a young enthusiastic individual working as a research associate at Progress Inc. Holding a bachelor's degree in public health, she has a proven track record of facilitating impactful health education sessions and coordinating community health interventions. Her hands-on experience in leading several projects on menstrual hygiene management and gender-based violence activism reflects her passion for women’s health and gender equality. She upholds feminist values in her work and daily life aiming to work for creating safer and inclusive space for women. She brings the necessary skills and knowledge in data collection, analysis, and program facilitation, supported by her leadership experience as President of a youth club. At Progress Inc, Supriya is exploring her capabilities in the diverse pool of research and is committed to advancing public health through evidence-based research.