Saleena Dhakal is the Special Projects Coordinator at the South Asian Network (SAN), where she works on projects that support, uplift, and bring South Asian communities together. Originally from Nepal, Saleena’s own experiences as an immigrant and her connection to her culture deeply shape the way she approaches her work. At the heart of what she does is storytelling, the belief that sharing our stories can help people feel seen, build connection, and create space for communities to imagine something different.
A graduate of the University of California, Irvine, Saleena holds a bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Social Policy & Public Service. Her work at SAN spans special projects, digital communications, and community engagement, where she brings together research, creativity, and storytelling to help make the organization’s work more accessible and meaningful.
Saleena cares deeply about creating spaces where South Asian voices and experiences are valued, celebrated, and heard. She approaches her work with curiosity, warmth, and a commitment to making community care feel tangible not just through advocacy and organizing, but through the stories, relationships, and moments that remind us we’re not alone. Outside of work, Saleena loves spending time among the trees, being in nature, and finding little ways to slow down and recharge. For her, joy, culture, creativity, and community are all part of the same story.
