A Legal Mind with an Olympic Heart

Chahana Shah is a dynamic force in law, sports, and social impact. A lawyer and Youth Olympic Ambassador, she champions fairness in the courtroom and on the field while advocating for youth empowerment and gender equality. With a passion for change, she s

SOME PEOPLE carry an aura of quiet strength, and Chahana Shah is one of them. A lawyer, a Young Olympic Ambassador (2022), and an advocate for youth empowerment, she seamlessly bridges the worlds of law, sports, and social impact. Her journey—from a disciplined boarding school life to global recognition—is a testament to resilience, ambition, and purpose.

From Boarding School to the Global Stage

Raised in a boarding school at La Martinière Girls’ College, Lucknow, Chahana developed independence early on. “Boarding school teaches resilience, discipline, and confidence,” she reflects. These skills shaped her path as a sports leader before she stepped onto the global stage as a Youth Olympic Ambassador.

Despite her deep involvement in athletics, she pursued law at Kathmandu University and later at the National Law University, Delhi. For her, sports and law are interconnected. “Both require discipline and strategic thinking,” she says. Her legal career allows her to champion fairness, whether in the courtroom or sports governance.

Advocacy Beyond the Courtroom

Chahana’s commitment to social change extends beyond her legal work. She actively promotes gender equality, youth empowerment, and sports inclusion. As a Youth Olympic Ambassador, she advocates for accessible sports programs, particularly for underprivileged girls.

Determined to break barriers, she envisions a sports school for girls in Nepal. “Too often, children must choose between education and sports. They deserve both,” she asserts. Her goal is to provide training and mentorship to young girls, ensuring they receive the opportunities they deserve.

A Passion for Food and Culture

Beyond law and sports, Chahana has a deep appreciation for food. At the Siddhartha Momo Festival, she participated not as a guest but as an eager learner. “Food is history, culture, and emotion,” she says. Her passion for food aligns with her advocacy for sports nutrition, an often-overlooked area in Nepal.

She is currently writing a book on sports nutrition for youth, integrating Nepal’s indigenous superfoods into modern athletic diets. “If avocados can be a global trend, why not Nepal’s nutrient-rich foods?” she asks. Her goal is to introduce local superfoods into youth diets, improving health and performance while promoting Nepal’s culinary heritage.

Championing Sports Law and Fairness

With expertise in both sports and law, Chahana recognizes the importance of legal protections for athletes. “Sports law ensures fairness, from contracts to gender equality,” she explains. She is committed to promoting ethical sports practices, advocating for equal opportunities, and ensuring safe spaces for athletes.

A Vision for the Future

Chahana’s ambitions don’t stop with sports, law, or nutrition. She is also campaigning against malnutrition, particularly in remote areas of Nepal. “Raising awareness is key,” she emphasizes, believing education and community involvement are essential in solving nutritional deficiencies.

When asked about the future, she remains focused: “To keep growing, learning, and giving back. Whether through law, sports, or food, I want to make a difference.”

Chahana Shah embodies the spirit of modern leadership—bold, passionate, and deeply committed to change. Whether advocating in court, inspiring young athletes, or reshaping Nepal’s nutritional landscape, she continues to pave the way for future generations.