Binod Kuikel: Merit in Community Service

Binod-kuikel-merit-in-community-service Binod Kuikel, a highly professional individual, has held multiple positions in social organizations and currently owns a retail business in Texas. With a strong business mindset and extensive experience in sales and marketing, Kuikel has made a name for himself in the industry. Born and raised in Nuwakot District, Nepal, in 1969, Kuikel grew up in a lower-middle-class family. He cherishes fond memories of swimming, rafting, and fishing in the local stream during his childhood. Kuikel’s educational journey began with five years in the teaching profession in Nuwakot District after completing his SLC education. He then moved to Kathmandu to pursue further studies and obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Saraswati Campus, Tribhuvan University, 2050 BS. Having cultivated a business mindset from a young age, Kuikel embarked on a career and began working as a sales officer at a ball pen company brand named “ Swift Ball Pen” then after Highland Distillery, a challenger whisky company, where he spent a couple of years as in sales and marketing. Additionally, he spent more than 15 years for different liquor or distilleries like Hiland Distillery, and Sumy Distillery and with a few more distilleries as a manager. He worked for a few businesses as a country manager, accumulating a wealth of experience over 20 years. Despite serving as the Nepal Country Manager for some companies, he encountered challenges due to market uncertainties and government policies that favored trade over domestic production. “At that time, the market was expanding significantly, but production faced numerous difficulties, making any Nepali brand unreliable.” Kuikel, a seasoned marketing manager, said. In 2009, Kuikel made the life-changing decision to move to the United States. With the assistance of supportive friends, he quickly secured a job and immersed himself in work, prioritizing his professional pursuits over personal comfort. However, he admits missing the vibrant social life and freedom of hanging out that he enjoyed in Nepal. Kuikel’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to start his first business in 2020 a gas station and retail store named KGB Himalayan Inc. in Oklahoma. Building on this success, he expanded his business with another venture in 2021 as well as in 2023. Kuikel believes that doing business in the US is favorable and straightforward, allowing for expansion and growth within a short period of hard workmanship. While Kuikel remains committed to supporting his homeland, he emphasizes the importance of Nepal’s government ensuring investment security to attract more Non-Resident Nepalis (NRNs) seeking to invest in the country’s untapped market. He attributes his success to the honesty and hard work inherent in Nepali culture. For Kuikel, his family’s happiness is his ultimate goal, driving him to work diligently and achieve the American Dream. He actively participates in community activities, striving to make a positive impact on those around him. His motto is to remain positive and focused on his goals. “Doing business in the United States is good and simple.” Just spend two years in a start-up business before you can readily expand, advised Kuikel. “We must do everything in our power to aid our motherland, and I am doing so myself, but the Nepali government must ensure the security of investment. Due to Nepal being a relatively untapped market, several NRN like ourselves desire to make investments there.” “Nepalis are special because they are honest and hardworking people, and that is the key to success in a short period,” he further added. Kuikel’s involvement in politics during his student years and his service in various community-based organizations have further shaped his perspective and deepened his commitment to community development. He currently resides in the beautiful city of Austin, Texas, with his family. Reflecting on his experiences, Kuikel acknowledges America as one of the safest markets in the world, providing ample opportunities for entrepreneurial ventures. He considers himself fortunate to have started a business in such a conducive environment.