Shesh Ghale: Inspiring Journey of a Nepali-Australian Billionaire, Entrepreneur, and Philanthropist

Photo Source: Youtube/Shesh Ghale

Dr. Shesh Ghale is a distinguished Nepali-Australian businessman, philanthropist, and education advocate best known as the co-founder and CEO of the Melbourne Institute of Technology (MIT) in Australia. Rising from humble beginnings in Lamjung, Nepal, he has become one of the wealthiest individuals of Nepali origin. Ghale is celebrated not only for his remarkable achievements in the field of education and business but also for his unwavering commitment to social responsibility, community service, and leadership in the global Nepali diaspora through the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA).

Quick Facts

• Full Name: Dr. Shesh Ghale

• Birth Year: 1963

• Place of Birth: Lamjung, Nepal

• Nationality: Nepali-Australian

• Spouse: Jamuna Gurung (Co-founder of MIT)

• Children: One daughter

• Education:

  • Master’s in Civil Engineering – Kharkiv National Automobile and Highway University, USSR

  • MBA – Victoria University, Australia

• Profession: Entrepreneur, CEO, Philanthropist

• Net Worth (2023): Approximately A$900 million (joint with spouse)

• Notable Titles:

  • Former President, Non-Resident Nepali Association (2013–2017)

  • Doctor of the University (Honoris Causa), Victoria University

  • Former Honorary Consul General of Nepal in Victoria

Early Life and Education

Shesh Ghale was born in a rural village in Lamjung district of western Nepal in 1963. Raised in a modest family, Ghale’s early life was marked by limited access to resources and opportunities. Despite these challenges, his drive for education and self-improvement stood out from a young age. His academic journey began in Nepal and soon extended beyond its borders through a prestigious government scholarship.

From 1979 to 1986, Ghale studied in the former USSR, earning a Master’s degree in Civil Engineering from the Kharkiv National Automobile and Highway University. Upon his return to Nepal, he worked as a highway project engineer for the Nepalese Government’s transport department.

In 1990, he relocated to Melbourne, Australia, where he pursued further education and sought a better future for his family. In 1994, he completed a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Victoria University, marking the beginning of a remarkable chapter in his life.

Professional Journey and Founding of MIT

Dr. Ghale’s early days in Australia were not easy. Like many immigrants, he juggled various low-paying jobs while pursuing his academic and professional dreams. However, his long-term vision and commitment bore fruit when, in 1996, he and his wife Jamuna Gurung co-founded the Melbourne Institute of Technology (MIT).

MIT was established with the mission to provide high-quality education to international students, particularly from Asia and developing nations. Under Ghale’s leadership, the institution grew rapidly, becoming one of Australia's most respected private higher education providers. It now offers a wide range of courses in IT, Business, Engineering, and other disciplines.

Business Ventures and Net Worth

The success of MIT laid the foundation for Ghale’s expansion into other business ventures, particularly in real estate development. Over the years, he strategically invested in commercial and residential properties across Australia. His business acumen and foresight helped him accumulate substantial wealth.

Dr. Ghale and his wife appeared for the first time on the BRW Rich 200 list in 2009 and consistently ranked in subsequent years. As of 2023, their combined net worth was estimated at A$900 million, making them one of the wealthiest couples of Nepali origin globally.

Leadership in the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA)

One of Dr. Ghale’s most impactful roles has been his leadership in the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA). He served as the President of NRNA from 2013 to 2017, serving two consecutive terms. During his tenure, he worked tirelessly to unify the global Nepali diaspora, estimated at over 4 million people across 71 countries.

Under his leadership, the NRNA saw unprecedented growth in influence, organization, and investment. Ghale was instrumental in initiating projects that promoted economic development in Nepal and enhanced the global image of Nepalis living abroad.

Philanthropy and Social Contributions

Beyond his corporate success, Dr. Ghale is deeply respected for his philanthropic work. He has contributed significantly to humanitarian and educational causes, both in Nepal and Australia. Notably, during the 2015 Nepal earthquake, Ghale and his wife donated millions to relief and reconstruction efforts.

He was later appointed as the Special Envoy for Nepal Earthquake Reconstruction and Development by the Government of Nepal. His initiatives helped rebuild infrastructure and support affected communities in some of Nepal’s hardest-hit regions.

In recognition of his work, he was also appointed Goodwill Ambassador (2015–2017) by Nepal’s Ministry of Children, Women and Social Services, advocating for male leadership against domestic violence.

Awards and Honors

• Doctor of the University (Honoris Causa) – Victoria University (2015)

• Ernst & Young Australian Entrepreneur of the Year Nominee – 2013

• Honorary Consul General of Nepal in Victoria – 1997 to 2000

• Special Envoy for Nepal Earthquake Reconstruction – 2015

• Goodwill Ambassador, Nepal Ministry of Social Services – 2015–2017

Personal Life and Values

Dr. Ghale lives in Melbourne, Australia, with his wife and daughter. Despite his immense success, he remains humble and closely connected to his Nepali roots. He frequently travels to Nepal and remains engaged in efforts to improve education, infrastructure, and community development in his homeland.

He and his wife, Jamuna Gurung, share a deep commitment to education and social service. Their partnership is not only personal but also professional, exemplifying a powerful union of shared vision and purpose.

Legacy and Influence

Shesh Ghale’s journey from a small village in Nepal to the top of Australia’s rich list is an extraordinary story of resilience, ambition, and integrity. He has become a role model for millions of Nepalis around the world and a symbol of what can be achieved with hard work and dedication.

His impact on higher education, community development, and international diplomacy has cemented his legacy as a transformational leader and global citizen.

Conclusion

Dr. Shesh Ghale is more than a billionaire entrepreneur—he is a visionary who has used his success to uplift others, empower education, and bring global recognition to the Nepali community. Whether through his leadership in the NRNA, his contributions to education through MIT, or his tireless philanthropic efforts, Ghale stands as a beacon of hope and pride for generations to come.