Hekani Jakhalu
Politicians · Nagaland
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Log in first to claimHekani Jakhalu Kense is a historic figure in Naga politics, serving as the first woman elected to the Nagaland Legislative Assembly since the state's inception in 1963. Representing the Dimapur-III constituency for the NDPP, she currently holds the role of Advisor for Industries and Commerce. A US-educated lawyer and recipient of the Nari Shakti Puraskar, she is also the founder of YouthNet, a premier NGO dedicated to youth empowerment and entrepreneurship in Nagaland.
| Name | Hekani Jakhalu Kense |
|---|---|
| Born | 1976 |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Occupation | Politician, Lawyer, Social Entrepreneur |
| Position | Advisor for Industries and Commerce, Government of Nagaland |
| Political Party | Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) |
| Constituency | Dimapur-III |
| Education | LL.M., University of San Francisco |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Kevilezo Kense |
Hekani Jakhalu Kense (born 1976), widely known as Hekani Jakhalu, is an Indian politician, lawyer, and social entrepreneur from Nagaland. In 2023 she was elected to the Nagaland Legislative Assembly from the Dimapur-III constituency, becoming one of the first women ever elected to the state assembly since Nagaland attained statehood in 1963. She currently serves as Advisor for Industries and Commerce in the Government of Nagaland. Before entering politics, she was widely recognized for founding YouthNet, a non-profit organization focused on youth empowerment, entrepreneurship, and employment opportunities in the state.
1. Early Life and Education
Hekani Jakhalu was born in Dimapur, Nagaland. She is the daughter of the late Suhoi Inashe Jakhalu. Growing up in a family that valued education and public service, she developed an early interest in leadership and social issues.She completed her school education at Bishop Cotton Girls’ School in Bengaluru. For higher studies, she moved to New Delhi where she attended Lady Shri Ram College, University of Delhi, and earned a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science.She later pursued legal studies at the Faculty of Law, University of Delhi, obtaining a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.). Her academic journey continued in the United States where she earned a Master of Laws (LL.M.) degree from the University of San Francisco School of Law.During her studies she also participated in leadership and human rights training programs and gained exposure through internships with international organizations.2. Legal Career
After completing her postgraduate studies, Hekani began her professional career in New Delhi as a legal practitioner. She worked as a lawyer at the Supreme Court of India and the Delhi High Court.During this period she was also associated with a law firm in Delhi where she gained experience in legal practice and corporate advisory work.Despite building a promising legal career in the capital, she later decided to return to Nagaland after observing the challenges faced by many young people from the Northeast who migrated to cities in search of employment.3. Founding of YouthNet
In 2006 Hekani founded YouthNet, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting young people in Nagaland through entrepreneurship, skill development, and employment initiatives.The organization introduced several programs designed to encourage entrepreneurship and reduce dependence on government employment. These initiatives included training programs, business mentorship, and platforms connecting young entrepreneurs with markets and opportunities.YouthNet also established the “Made in Nagaland” initiative, which promotes locally produced goods and supports artisans and small business owners.Over the years the organization has worked with thousands of youth across Nagaland and other parts of the Northeast, helping them explore career opportunities in the private sector and start their own enterprises.4. Entry into Politics
Hekani Jakhalu entered electoral politics in the 2023 Nagaland Legislative Assembly election as a candidate of the Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP).She contested from the Dimapur-III constituency and won the seat, marking an important milestone for women’s representation in the state legislature.Following her election she was appointed Advisor for Industries and Commerce in the Government of Nagaland. In this role she has been associated with initiatives aimed at strengthening entrepreneurship, supporting small businesses, and encouraging industrial development within the state.She has also emphasized the importance of creating opportunities for young people and promoting innovation and digital skills.5. Personal Life
Hekani Jakhalu is married to businessman Kevilezo Kense. The couple has two children.Outside her political and professional responsibilities, she is known for her interest in promoting local products and supporting the “Buy Local” movement in Nagaland. She often advocates for strengthening local industries, traditional crafts, and entrepreneurship among young people.6. Awards and Recognition
Hekani has received several recognitions for her work in youth empowerment and social development.In 2018 she was honored with the Nari Shakti Puraskar, one of India’s highest civilian awards for women, in recognition of her work supporting youth entrepreneurship and employment initiatives.Her organization YouthNet has also received national and international recognition for its contribution to youth development programs and community initiatives in the Northeast.👁 Profile Views: 61