Category: Leaders

Elevating Leadership Dynamics

In the dynamic world of global recruitment, few leaders stand out for their unparalleled journey and transformative impact. Mr. Sachin Shenoy, at the helm of NicheHR Global, is taking the ever-evolving landscape of executive search and HR consulting to newer hights.

TRANSFORMATIVE LEADERSHIP

Sachin Shenoy, armed with a background in Commerce, embarked on a career journey that traversed various sectors, leaving an indelible mark on each. His early years were marked by shaping recruitment processes at Hinduja, followed by instrumental roles in global hiring initiatives at Satyam BPO. Contributions to the growth of organisations like Narayan Hrudayalaya, HCL, IFFCO Group, Americana and GoAir further solidified his reputation as a transformative leader in the HR landscape. Now, at the helm of NicheHR Global, Sachin epitomises the essence of leadership in the ever- evolving landscape of executive search and HR consulting.

TRAILBLAZING INTERNATIONAL PRESENCE

NicheHR Global, Sachin’s brainchild, is not just an HR consultancy; it’s a global force reshaping executive leadership searches. The firm’s sector-agnostic and geo- agnostic approach has propelled it across the Middle East, Africa, Europe, Southeast Asia, and India. This international footprint of providing tailored recruitment solutions on a global scale has not only expanded NicheHR’s reach but has also set new standards for international HR consultancy.

BLENDING TRADITION WITH TECHNOLOGY

At the heart of NicheHR’s success is its innovative ‘SmArt’ approach, masterminded by Sachin Shenoy. This strategy seamlessly blends traditional recruitment methodologies with cutting-edge technology. The firm leverages AI-driven tools alongside old-school networking, creating a synergy that ensures a comprehensive and effective executive search process. In a landscape dominated by technological disruptions, NicheHR’s ability to balance the best of both worlds has positioned it as a trailblazer in the recruitment domain.

HUMAN-CENTRIC LEADERSHIP IN A TECH-DRIVEN ERA

Sachin Shenoy’s leadership philosophy reflects a delicate balance between tradition and innovation. In an era marked by technological advancements, he champions a human centric approach to leadership. NicheHR Global stands out not just for its tech-driven solutions but for its commitment to people. Sachin’s leadership style during challenging times, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, showcased a rare blend of pragmatism and empathy. Sachin’s steadfast belief is in the power of flexibility. The company trusts employees to chart their unique paths toward shared goals. This approach extends to leave policies, with team members enjoying the liberty to take as much time off as they need. The result is a workforce that operates from anywhere, contributing to NicheHR’s success. The firm’s emphasis on flexibility, remote working, and kindness positions it as a beacon of humane leadership in a tech-driven era.

SACHIN’S TRANSFORMATIVE LEADERSHIP

The fabric of NicheHR Global is woven with Sachin’s leadership principles. The firm’s growth from a startup to an international player across 28 countries with major clientele in India, the UAE and Saudi Arabia, mirrors Sachin’s ambitious trajectory. NicheHR’s success isn’t just in its numbers but in its commitment to agnostic hiring – an approach championed by Sachin. The firm’s agility in adapting to diverse industries and geographies echoes the leader’s mantra of being agnostic and adaptive. In the vast landscape of HR consultancy, NicheHR Global, under Sachin Shenoy’s leadership, emerges not just as a service provider but as a transformative force. His journey, from a one-man army to leading the firm’s growth across continents, exemplifies visionary leadership. The narrative of NicheHR and Sachin Shenoy is not just a tale of professional triumphs; it’s a blueprint for organisations aspiring to blend tradition with technology, global reach with human-centric values, and leadership with empathy.

LEADING WITH VISION

Dr. Shruti Sharma is the dynamic CEO of Brindavan Group of Institutes (BGI) located in Bengaluru, Karnataka (India). With her academic brilliance and innovative leadership, she has carved a niche for herself in the education sector and helped BGI evolve into a powerhouse of academic excellence.

Dr. Sharma, a BE-CSE graduate with an Honorary Doctorate, is a self-motivated leader. She has received many international and national awards for her contributions towards the educational community. With a stellar track record of steering companies toward sustainable growth and profitability, she excels in driving organisational excellence and delivering outstanding stakeholder value. Over the years, the young leader has demonstrated the ability to develop and execute strategic plans for leading BGI through transformational changes and achieving key business objectives. With extensive experience in driving revenue growth, expanding market share, and improving operational efficiencies, she has paved her own path to success.

Dr. Sharma’s exceptional leadership skills stand out as she builds high-performance teams, drives innovation, and motivates employees to reach their highest potentials. Her deep industry knowledge and understanding of market dynamics make her a true industry stalwart. In her current role at BGI, she has played a pivotal part in catapulting the institution’s growth by spearheading strategic planning initiatives, facilitating the expansion of academic programs in BGI constituent colleges, and overseeing significant enhancements in campus infrastructure.

UNFAZED BY CHALLENGES

During the challenging period of the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Sharma demonstrated exceptional leadership by developing a comprehensive BGI COVID-19 Standard Operating Procedure. Under her guidance, the campus ensured a safe atmosphere for both students and staff during working hours. Special quarantine facilities were designated for inbound state and international travellers, with daily health monitoring implemented for all individuals. BGI Stakeholders also underwent regular COVID-19 PCR tests on campus. Classes were conducted in a blended mode tailored to the needs of students and staff. Remarkably, the campus organised 11 COVID-19 vaccination drives and administered two doses to all staff and students, thus transforming BGI into a 100% vaccinated campus. As a result of this proactive approach, there were no COVID-19 casualties among students and faculty. Additionally, BGI upheld its commitment to employees, ensuring timely salary payments during both non-COVID and COVID periods. Her dedication and strategic initiatives have not only safeguarded the BGI community but have also set a standard for resilience and adaptability in higher education institutions.

GIVING BACK TO SOCIETY

Dr. Sharma is deeply committed to promoting social justice and equity through corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities. She prioritises initiatives like the diversity and inclusion programs, scholarships for underrepresented groups, and addressing systemic inequalities in education.

By integrating CSR into BGI’s academic and research activities, Dr. Sharma aims to enhance the institution’s social impact. She encourages research on socially and environmentally relevant topics for moulding graduates into socially conscious and responsible citizens. On an international front, Dr. Sharma advocates for global CSR to nurture cultural understanding, facilitate international development, and tackle global challenges like poverty, health, and climate change. Her multifaceted approach to CSR reflects her passion for creating a more just and equitable world.

COMMITTED TO PATIENT-CENTRED CARE

Dr. Manika Khanna, a leader in the fields of medicine, business, and social work, has redefined India’s IVF industry with her relentless passion. As the Founder, CEO, and Chairperson of Gaudium IVF and Women Health Pvt. Ltd, she has transformed countless lives by offering hope to childless couples worldwide, thus setting new standards in the industry. Her success story is not just a tale of professional success, but a testament to the transformative power of visionary leadership and patient-centric care

A trailblazer in assisted reproduction in humans in India, Dr. Khanna has over 20 years of illustrious medical experience. Her relentless passion for serving society led her to pursue an Advanced Training Program in Gynaecological and Endoscopic Surgery at the University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Campus KEIL, Germany. She has also obtained advanced training in Assisted Reproduction in Humans (IVF) from the Melbourne IVF unit. Her extensive training in cutting-edge surgical techniques has made her a respected authority in the realm of reproductive medicine in India.

A LEGACY OF SUCCESS

Dr. Khanna established the Gaudium IVF and Women Health in 2009 with her modest savings. This endeavour was driven by her profound vision and unwavering determination to assist childless couples in realising their dreams of parenthood. With a relentless commitment to restoring hope and happiness to countless childless families, Dr. Khanna’s transformative endeavours have set a new standard in infertility care. She has propelled Gaudium IVF and Women Health to international acclaim as India’s pioneer in radiation-free IVF treatments. She envisions a future where every individual is empowered to experience the profound joy of parenthood, making her an inspirational figure in the world of infertility treatment.

CAREER MILESTONES

Dr. Khanna, hailed as India’s most experienced infertility and IVF specialist, has transformed the lives of thousands, offering solace to couples from more than 30 countries. Her expertise and commitment have made Gaudium IVF and Women Health a global destination for infertility treatments.

Founded with a vision to restore faith and happiness in the lives of those who had given up hope, it has become synonymous with compassionate and advanced medical care. Under the exceptional guidance of Dr. Khanna, the institution has achieved remarkable milestones, setting new records in the realm of reproductive medicine. With her persistent guidance, Gaudium IVF and Women Health has embraced challenges that others deemed insurmountable. One such astounding feat was the successful delivery of a healthy baby after 15 failed IVF cycles, a groundbreaking achievement in the field.

Since 1996, Dr. Khanna has conducted thousands of successful IVF treatments, spanning over 30 countries. Additionally, she has conducted many deliveries successfully, establishing herself as a preeminent clinician in handling complex infertility conditions encompassing recurrent IVF failure, recurrent miscarriages, polycystic ovarian syndrome, uterine fibroids, endometriosis, polycystic ovarian disease (PCOD), PMS, polyps, ovarian cyst removal, and endometriosis.

Following the phenomenal success of Gaudium IVF and Women Health in the country, Dr. Khanna extended her commitment to women’s health and well-being by establishing Gaudium Woman Hospital – an IVF Clinic and infertility Treatment Centre at Janakpuri in West Delhi, where she provides expert consultation. Using innovative approaches to enhance the well-being of women and children across every phase of their lives, the senior doctor adheres to a holistic philosophy towards women’s health.

A PATIENT-CENTRIC APPROACH

Dr. Khanna is a stalwart advocate for a “Patient-First Culture,” where compassion, personalised care, confidentiality, and transparency take centre stage. By embracing
a patient-centred care philosophy, she has carved an indelible mark in the industry.
What distinguishes her is the remarkable connection she forges with her patients. With
her fingers on the pulse of patient needs, she steers the ship of Gaudium IVF and Women
Health with a steady hand, ensuring that compassion and personalised care are not
mere buzzwords but the very essence of her approach. This attribute has helped her win
the trust of her patients. She aims to offer optimum patient care and makes sure that
each patient receives personalised attention from a devoted team of specialists, thus
solidifying Gaudium IVF’s commitment to prioritising the unique needs of those seeking
fertility solutions.

GIVING BACK TO SOCIETY

In 2014, Dr. Khanna established the Gaudium Foundation, a charitable institution focused on improving healthcare access for underprivileged children and women in slums, minority communities, and remote areas. Driven by her passion for social change, she ensures essential medical services and health awareness initiatives reach those in need. The foundation, under her guidance, continues to make a profound impact by promoting better health and well-being among vulnerable populations.

GARNERING PRESTIGIOUS ACCOLADES

Dr. Khanna’s transformative efforts have not gone unnoticed. She has numerous awards to her credit. She was honoured with the IVF Leader of the Year, India Award by Gurudev Sri Sri Ravishankar at the Healthcare Heroes Conclave & Awards. In 2021, she was awarded “Name in Medical Science and Practice” for her contribution to Global Women’s Health by Oxford (UK). She also received “The Honorary Professorship Award” from Oxford, UK in 2018; “Healthcare Personality of the Year-Women” by Honourable Health Minister Anupriya Patel at the Business World Awards in 2017, Kesari Women Award by Punjab Kesari, Delhi. The visionary leader has also been praised by the former President of India Smt. Pratibha Patil for her outstanding work in the field of infertility.

Her stellar leadership and visionary approach have also earned Gaudium IVF and Women Health several prestigious awards, including the highly coveted Quality Choice award by ESQR (European Society for Quality Research) in Barcelona, Spain on July 3, 2022; a singular honour for an Indian. Other accolades include the India Best Practices Award IVF Chain Company of the Year 2019 awarded by Frost & Sullivan (US); and the Symbol of Brand Excellence Award by Power Brand in the IVF category in London (2018). Also, the Times of India Health survey ranked it Number 1 position in North India and Number 2 all over India in 2021.

A TRUE INSPIRATION

Dr. Khanna’s exceptional achievements and profound knowledge have not only driven Gaudium IVF and Women Health’s success, but have also made her a sought-after international faculty member. She is frequently invited to conferences worldwide to share her wealth of knowledge and experience. Her dedication to advancing the field of IVF through education and knowledge dissemination reflects her commitment to shaping a better future for reproductive medicine. The leader is a true inspiration for all those who aspire to make a meaningful impact in the world of healthcare.

ACCELERATING THE TRANSITION TOWARDS SUSTAINABILITY

MR. JIM SEBASTIAN, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF ECOVAL TRADING LLC IN THE UAE, HAS GUIDED THE ORGANISATION ENTHUSIASTICALLY AND CREATIVELY. WITH HIS SKILLFUL LEADERSHIP, EXPERIENCE, AND DEDICATION TO QUALITY, HE HAS PLAYED A CRITICAL ROLE IN DRIVING THE COMPANY TOWARDS GROWTH, RECOGNITION, AND ACCOMPLISHMENT.

MODEST BEGINNINGS

Mr. Jim Sebastian earned his Bachelor of Technology in Mechanical Engineering from the Government Engineering College in Trichur, Kerala, India, and PGDIM in International Marketing & Finance from IMI in New Delhi. He began his professional journey with power plant projects in prestigious engineering organisations in New Delhi. He was also the Product Manager at Gestetner-Ricoh (I) Limited. With exposure to such diverse industries, Mr. Sebastian relocated to Dubai to launch his venture. His ambition came true in 2002, when he founded Ecoval Trading LLC, a supplier of heat pumps and solar water heaters, aiming not just to meet but also to surpass industry standards in terms of price and consumer satisfaction. His business is booming today with unmatched product quality, renowned brands, and increasing recognition. Following his success in the United Arab Emirates and Oman, he executed several projects in Saudi Arabia, including the world’s largest water park built in partnership with Voltas. It has a heating capacity of 35,000 kW. Ecoval is regarded as a market leader for solar energy, heating, and cooling solutions in the UAE and has worked on many commercial, residential, and institutional projects.

TURNING DREAMS INTO REALITY

Ecoval combines “value” and “ecology,” demonstrating Mr. Sebastian’s commitment to social and environmental sustainability. He set out on this adventure with solar water heaters from Australia called “Solahart,” a reputable brand that was well-known in 90 countries and stood for excellence. He quickly made a name for himself and expanded the offering to encompass a variety of sustainable solutions. He takes great satisfaction in the company’s ability to deliver comprehensive solutions, and is skilled at meeting the demands of complex projects. In contrast to expansive MNCs, Ecoval takes a customised approach. It provides consultants with a single point of contact, guaranteeing personalised solutions for every project. The company’s leadership position in the sector is emphasised by the accolades it has received and the calibre of the solutions it offers.

STRIVING FOR A SUSTAINABLE CAUSE

Renewable energy sources, such as solar energy and wind systems, produce zero carbon emissions, protecting the environment and minimising the effects of global warming. Sustainable energy plays a significant part in reducing the reliance on energy sources such as fossil fuels, which are primary contributors to climate change and environmental pollution. Considering these aspects, Mr. Sebastian established Ecoval Trading, which quickly became a leading supplier of sustainable solutions, offering turnkey solar thermal plants, hot water heat pumps, pool heat pumps, and condensing boiler systems.

THE PERFECTIONIST

Mr. Sebastian’s philosophy is based on precision and hands-on work. He asserts that lack of focus can have unintended consequences. He believes in the adage that quality stems from one’s thinking and imparting this mindset to the younger generation is necessary. Many people need more time to pursue deep technical learning, which is imperative for rising
as industry leaders. Time constraints and accuracy mark his team’s work, and mistakes are viewed as lessons to perform better.

The leader aspires for his business to be a reputable, efficient company that provides eco-friendly and sustainable solutions. He strives to live up to or surpass his customers’ expectations in all his products and services.

Bringing Niche Aromatic Retail Experiences to India

Mr. Shishir Mehta serves as the Managing Director of Mirasimo Fragrances & Cosmetics LLP, offering a unique olfactory retail experience to Indian customers. Mirasimo’s retail perfume boutique chain, known as SCENTIDO NICHE PERFUMERY, is thriving and setting a vibrant benchmark for excellence in the fragrance and cosmetics industry.

TRACING THE ROOTS

Mr. Shishir Mehta began his professional career as a mechanical engineer and successfully headed a national metallurgical testing laboratory for about 35 years. However, his passion for fragrances motivated him to devote his entire attention to entrepreneurship. Mirasimo Fragrances & Cosmetics LLP and its retail chain SCENTIDO NICHE PERFUMERY were born out of Mr. Mehta’s exquisite and elaborate personal collection of internationally renowned and exclusive fragrances. The brand was launched in India to bring elegance and art together to create an experience that truly captures all your senses. It has brought more than 30 unique and sought-after global fragrance brands under one roof. In addition to his role at Mirasimo, Mr. Mehta is a respected figure in the business community, known for his insights, leadership skills, and ability to navigate the complex landscape of the beauty industry.

TAPPING INTO THE NICHE FRAGRANCE CATEGORY

To enhance the market presence of Mirasimo, Mr. Mehta and his team focused on educating customers and increasing awareness about its unique fragrances and the exceptional value they provide. With the vision of offering exclusive and captivating scents, and establishing a reputation as India’s premier label for niche fragrance distribution, he inaugurated SCENTIDO NICHE PERFUMERY, a boutique retail chain store.

SCENTIDO, meaning heartfelt or sense, is the gateway to exploring luxurious perfumes handpicked from Italy, New York, London, France, and other countries. Some popular brands in the collection are Roja Parfums, Clive Christian, Electimuss London, Pantheon Roma, Oman Luxury, and Floris London.

SPEARHEADING MARKETING EFFORTS

It was a significant challenge for Mr. Mehta to introduce the concept of niche fragrances in India. The Mirasimo Fragrances & Cosmetics LLP team worked diligently to make customers aware of the value of niche fragrances and directed sincere efforts towards increasing its market presence. It has earned a great reputation for providing 100% authentic products.

Mr. Mehta’s team of seasoned fragrance consultants offers home appointments, personalised consultations, multi-sensory events, educational masterclasses, seamless digital experiences, and corporate gifting options. Regular brand training is also organised to ensure that everyone in the store can effectively communicate the brand’s unique selling points to customers.

EMPHASIS ON CUSTOMER SATISFACTION

Under Mr. Mehta’s guidance, the staff at Mirasimo Fragrances & Cosmetics LLP undergoes approach training (two-way conversation) instead of sales training (one-way communication) to persuade customers to make a purchase. In simpler terms, the staff engages with clients by first expressing genuine sentimental interest in them as individuals, followed by a conversation, rather than simply attempting to sell a product. Mr. Mehta envisions delivering high-quality, unique, and long-lasting fragrances that enhance the personality of buyers. Mirasimo Fragrances & Cosmetics LLP and SCENTIDO NICHE PERFUMERY offer something for every gender, age group and price point. A transparent relationship exists between the brand and its customers, as customers have round-the clock access to fragrance consultants, management authorities, and store managers. The majority of customers are ‘repeat and highly satisfied customers’ who seek something exquisite or wish to repurchase their signature fragrances.

CARVING THE PATH FOR FUTURE SUCCESS

Mr. Shishir Mehta envisions Mirasimo Cosmetics & Fragrances LLP achieving massive success in its upcoming endeavours. He actively plans to expand the business by launching a 3-axis brand that will encompass skincare, fragrances, and cosmetics collectively. Additionally, he intends to open more SCENTIDO NICHE PERFUMERY boutique stores across India, further strengthening the distribution base.

CARVING EXCELLENCE

Ms. Koheli Puri, the Founder and Managing Director of Studio XP Management Consultants Private Limited, has over twenty years of experience in Project Management and real estate. She consistently demonstrates her strong determination and ability to make sound business decisions regardless of the market situation, turning her endeavours into profitable companies.

“MS. PURI HAS REDEFINED THE REALTY AND CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRIES BY RAISING
THE BAR ON QUALITY”

After graduating from Bengal Engineering College, Shibpur, with a B.Arch., Ms. Koheli Puri went to IIT Delhi to complete her master’s program in construction engineering and management. She held positions as the Head of Operations at Jones Lang LaSalle and the Head of the Project Management Division at The 3C Company in Noida. After gaining rich expertise in project management and commercial real estate, she founded Studio XP Management Consultants Private Limited in 2011, and currently serves as the company’s Managing Director. Under her leadership, StudioXP, which holds ISO-9001 certification, provides a variety of comprehensive services to developers, IPCs in Bengaluru, Delhi-NCR, Mumbai, Pune, Kolkata, Chennai, Jaipur, Hyderabad, Dubai and other cities, for domestic and foreign corporate clients. It aims to function as an all-in-one resource by providing complete solutions from project conception, management, execution till completion and financial closure of corporate and commercial projects.

A RESILIENT PERSONALITY

Ms. Koheli Puri leads with resilience. She believes that women are more sincere, accountable, and capable of juggling multiple responsibilities. Her practical approach fuels her unwavering ‘never- say-never’ mindset. She likes challenges and believes that every goal is achievable. Under her skilful leadership, Studio XP has succeeded in setting a new standard of dedication in the corporate and commercial design & build project. She has redefined the realty and construction industries by raising the bar on quality and gaining client’s trust.

AN EMPATHIC LEADER

Ms. Koheli Puri has built a team with highly skilled and dedicated professionals working together to achieve the best outcomes. She leads her team with exceptional skills and treats them like family. To optimise the team’s performance, she fosters a performance- oriented atmosphere. She aims to preserve this standard while giving her employees a hassle-free, healthy work environment. Her warm demeanour towards her clients and team speaks a lot about her as an individual and professional.

PRESTIGIOUS CLIENTS

Ms. Puri’s efforts and perseverance have earned her numerous clients. She has completed large-scale, distinctively designed, superior-quality projects for prestigious corporations such as Brook Field, Black Stone, DLF, Ultimate Kronos Group, Lumen Technologies, Ericsson, HCL, Bank of America, and Pine Labs, to name a few. She has collaborated with Fortune 500 organisations and completed several commercial development projects such as hotels, schools, corporate campuses, and platinum LEED-rated green buildings.

AWARDS AND RECOGNITIONS

Ms. Puri is a TEDx Speaker and received the Outstanding Leadership Award from Realty 2.0 in Dubai for her role as an entrepreneur in the real estate industry in March 2022, the Indian Achiever’s Award 2021 for Business Leadership from the Indian Achievers’ Forum, the Self Made Women Award from Digilive in 2021, the Times Business Award Realty 2018 and 2019 for Commercial Architecture and Interiors, and the 2016 Company of the Year award in the Design and Built Projects Category. In addition, she has been featured in many national and international business publications, including Business Today, Silicon India, Fortune India, Architecture + Design, Forbes India Marquee, Business Connect, Mirror Review, The Business Fame, and Global Hues.

TEACHING THE ART OF LIVING TO THE WORLD

Bringing relief to millions of people the world over with his soothing voice of peace & enchanting words of wisdom, Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, a global humanitarian and spiritual master, who established ‘The Art of Living’ Foundation four decades ago, is on a mission of global wellbeing, by making people aware of the innate joy inherent in them.

“THE FIRST THING IN A CONFLICT IS A COMMUNICATION BREAKDOWN. SECOND, THERE IS A TRUST DEFICIT. IF WE CAN BRIDGE THESE SOMEHOW, THEN THE PROCESS BEGINS. INSIDE EVERY CULPRIT IS A VICTIM CRYING FOR HELP. IF YOU HEAL THE VICTIM, THE CULPRIT DISAPPEARS”

Gurudev’s emphasis on mental health has acquired all the more relevance in the ongoing pandemic. In today’s world torn with stress and conflict, edging towards a potential pandemic of mental health illnesses in the times to come by (as per the global estimates), the contribution of an Indian leader in bringing happiness and peace in the lives of millions of people is revolutionary and commendable.

A CHILD PRODIGY

Born in a small village called Papanasam, 25 kms from the city of Thanjavur in Tamil Nadu on 13th May 1956, Gurudev was a prodigious child. At the age of 4, he astonished his teachers by seamlessly reciting verses from the ‘Bhagavad Gita,’ an ancient Hindu
scripture. His Sanskrit teacher was Pandit Sudhakar Chaturvedi, a close associate of
Mahatma Gandhi. His peaceful brilliance drew teachers and students alike, to him even at school, who would often seek his guidance and support. Owing to his academic performance, he received double promotions too. But sports and movies did not interest him much. From a young age, he would be found deep in meditation. He would often be seen resolving fights among children, who were sometimes several years older to him. Gurudev studied at St. Josephs College, Bengaluru. As a scholar in Vedic literature with a degree in modern science, he has always maintained that science and spirituality were never in conflict with each other in the orient.

COMMITTED TO WORLD PEACE

Gurudev’s commitment to peace and conflict resolution, a glimpse of which we see in his childhood, led to several meaningful interventions. Gurudev has endeavoured to foster peace and hold space for dialogue across nations, organizations and communities He has lead conflict resolution and trauma-relief programmes in many countries, including Brazil, Cameroon, Colombia, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Israel-Palestine, Kenya, Kosovo, Lebanon, Mauritius, Morocco, Nepal, Pakistan, Russia, South Africa, Sri Lanka, and the United States of America.

Gurudev emphasizes that “the first thing in a conflict is a communication breakdown. Second, there is a trust deficit. If we can bridge these somehow, then the process begins. Inside every culprit is a victim crying for help. If you heal the victim, the culprit disappears.”

MAKING THE WORLD A BETTER PLACE

His teachings can be experientially integrated into life, working through exploration instead of imposition. This explains why they work well especially for those in the heart of a conflict. They have benefited the genocide facing Yezidi community in Syria, eased inter-communal tensions in Iraq, and stopped gang wars in Ivory Coast. Gurudev has found global acceptance across wide political spectrum, working continuously with people on all sides of a conflict, the victim and the perpetrator, the law enforcer and the outlawed. In Kashmir, Northeast India, Ivory-coast, Iraq, Kosovo, Lebanon, Colombia, Middle East among other places – Gurudev has created safe spaces for dialogue to flourish, in spite of stiff uncomfortable resistance. He is renowned for his caregiver approach to mediation which finds trust among stakeholders. To cite an example, when tension in Iraq soared in 2008, Gurudev met leaders on all sides (Shia, Sunni and Kurds among others). Peace observers say that he is one of the very few world leaders to have been able to do this at the time of conflict. “In any long-drawn conflict, the victim tends to turn an oppressor and the oppressor becomes a victim. A broader vision and spiritual understanding alone can break this vicious cycle,” he says. His efforts helped end a bloody 52-year-old conflict between the FARC and the Columbian establishment. He has hosted a series of trust enhancing interventions in J&K, providing all the stakeholders to voice their opinion in an effort to restore peace in the valley.

LAYING THE FOUNDATION OF GLOBAL WELLBEING

In 1981, Gurudev established the Art of Living along with the first free school ‘Ved Vignan Maha Vidya Peeth’ in Bengaluru. In 1982, after 10 days of silence, Gurudev cognized one of the most unique offering to the world.

Sudarshan Kriya, a powerful breathing technique that simplifies – mental, emotional and social wellbeing. He says, “In sleep, we get rid of fatigue, but the deeper stresses remain in our body. Sudarshan Kriya cleanses the system from the inside. The breath has a great secret to offer.” The first Art of Living program was conducted in Shimoga, Karnataka in 1982. Nurtured by his care and contribution, the Art of Living has rapidly grown in 156 countries, spreading peace and happiness to over 450 million people. He has designed 57 exclusive courses that empower individuals and cater to the social, material and spiritual needs of each social strata. To bring up a generation of peace-loving and well-educated individuals, Gurudev has worked towards bringing holistic education to every corner of the country. In the area of education, what started with reviving a single school has grown to a movement involving 702 free schools under ‘Gift a Smile’ program which provides free education and food to more than 80,000 children in remote, rural and tribal parts of India. 90% of these children are first generation learners.

BRACING THE WORLD FOR THE PANDEMIC

During the onset of an unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020, thousands of people lost their loved ones. To help millions move through the trying times during the pandemic, Gurudev launched the World Meditates campaign and personally conducted online guided meditation twice daily touching the life of millions by bringing solace, helping people build mental resilience, find semblance of peace and keeping the hope alive. The Art of Living also pioneered the ‘I stand with humanity initiative’ – providing more than 80 million meals to the daily wage earners in over 170 cities across India. The service initiative during the pandemic included the distribution of 6000 tons of food to 5 million families. It helped set up 7 covid care hospitals and provided over 2000 PPE kits. Trauma relief programs were also conducted for more than 1 million migrant laborers and covid warriors to bring mental relief to combat stress and anxiety during such times.

WELL-DESERVED RECOGNITION

He has received numerous awards from all over the globe including the highest civilian award of Columbia, Mongolia and Paraguay. He is also the recipient of the Padma Vibhushan, one of India’s highest civilian awards & 23 honorary doctorates globally.

A Versatile Humanitarian

Indian yoga guru Jagadish Vasudev, popularly known as Sadhguru, is a proponent of spirituality and yoga. Since 1982, he has been teaching yoga in Southern India. A renowned speaker and opinion-maker, Sadhguru has been ranked among India’s 50 most influential people. One of the most distinguished citizens of India, he is the only Indian to be honoured with three presidential awards from three different presidents – including India’s highest annual civilian award, the Padma Vibhushan.

“SADHGURU HAS UNDERTAKEN MASSIVE ECOLOGICAL INITIATIVES TO DEAL WITH BURNING ISSUES SUCH AS SOIL, WATER AND CLIMATE CHANGE. THERE ARE NOW 3.91 BILLION PEOPLE INVOLVED IN SADHGURU’S SAVE SOIL MOVEMENT, MAKING IT THE LARGEST PEOPLE’S MOVEMENT IN THE WORLD”

Sadhguru was born in 1957 in Mysore, India. He was a fearless rebel since his childhood. Snake catching and venturing into the wilderness used to be his favourite pastimes in those days. He graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in English from Mysore University. The profound mystic rethought the purpose of his life at the age of 25 after undergoing a spiritual experience. He eventually discovered his true calling and became a yoga teacher. With his ability to make ancient yogic sciences relevant to contemporary minds, the spiritual leader has transformed how young people view yoga and spirituality. According to him, yoga can help mortals generate happiness from within and mould their destinies.

THE ‘UNEDUCATED’ GURU

Sadhguru is known for his razor-sharp intelligence, unstoppable passion and dedication to spreading yoga and spirituality among the youth worldwide. His life’s mission is to promote the physical, mental, and spiritual well-being of everyone. Moreover, his profound experience of the Self has enabled him to master the mechanisms of life. Millions of followers worldwide seek his guidance on spirituality, meditation, and the “realm of mysticism.” As a leader, he is credited with creating the historic Dhyanalinga – the mission of three lifetimes.

The spiritual leader has devised a unique set of activities to promote universal values and religious harmony through this meditation technique. His life experience is not based on teaching, philosophy, religion, or belief system. His scientific methods for self-transformation offer a direct and effective alternative to mere customs and rituals. The humble leader says, “The word ‘Sadhguru’ is not a title. It is a description. Sadhguru means’ uneducated Guru.’ I don’t know any scriptures. I come only from my inner experience. The only thing I know is this piece of life from its origin to its ultimate.”

THE ISHA FOUNDATION

In 1992, Sadhguru founded the Isha Foundation near Coimbatore. With human well-being as its primary objective, the non- profit organisation operates an ashram and a yoga centre that carries out educational activities. A total of 16 million volunteers support its 300 centres worldwide.

Through Sadhguru, the Isha Foundation is dedicated to exploring the ancient science of yoga in its entirety. The Foundation offers several programmes to help individuals achieve physical, mental and spiritual well-being. These programmes have powerful transformational effects on the human body. Among the most crucial flagship programmes he offers to help people gain a balanced life are the Inner Engineering programmes.

A MULTI-TALENTED INDIVIDUAL

With his absolute clarity of perception, Sadhguru has a unique position in the worlds of spirituality, business, the environment, and international affairs. He is a voracious writer and the author of two New York Times bestsellers – a rare feat in the publishing genre of spirituality and mysticism. He has a very strong social media and digital media presence. Over 2.44 billion views of his videos on social media in 2021 made him the world’s most popular spiritual guide.

In addition to being a delegate to the United Nations Millennium World Peace Summit, Sadhguru is also a member of the World Council of Religious and Spiritual Leaders and the Alliance for New Humanity. He has been invited to the Australian Leadership Retreat, Tallberg Forum, and Indian Economic Summits 2005-2008. He also attends the World Economic Forum regularly. Sadhguru’s gentle side can bring tears of gratitude and laughter to even the most hardened hearts. He is adored by ash-smeared yogis, cheerful village children, and top-tier executives alike.

THE VISIONARY

A celebratory participant in all aspects of life, Sadhguru’s interests span architecture, visual design, poetry, painting, aviation, driving, sports, and music. His insights have led to the establishing of the Sadhguru Center for a Conscious Planet at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, the teaching hospital of Harvard Medical School. The Yogi believes that insight, integrity and inspiration are the essential attributes of a leader. The wise and witty leader has been interviewed by BBC, Bloomberg, CNBC, CNNfn, and Newsweek International for his vision and understanding of modern social and economic issues. Additionally, the leading national newspapers in India regularly publish his insights. His public talks and satsangs (group meditations) regularly draw crowds of over 3,00,000 people.

AN IMPECCABLE ORATOR

As an international speaker, Sadhguru is sought after by several prestigious global forums around the world. Aside from human rights, he also addresses issues related to business values, social issues and environmental concerns. He has also spoken at the UN General Assembly, the UNCCD COP15, and other international forums. In addition, he has spoken at institutions such as the World Economic Forum, the World Bank, the House of Lords, the University of Oxford, MIT, Google and Microsoft. The in-depth knowledge and incisive approach that Sadhguru brings to current issues and world affairs have made him a constant favourite among his listeners and followers.

GIVING BACK TO SOCIETY

With the goal of reviving the human spirit, re-establishing communities, and preserving the environment, Sadhguru carries out several sizeable human service initiatives through the Isha Foundation. To date, the Foundation has assisted 1,32,000 farmers in growing 62 million trees, provided healthcare to 7 million clients in rural areas, and educated over 10,000 rural children.

The Foundation and its various initiatives have received worldwide recognition, including Observer status at the UN Environment, membership in the IUCN, accreditation by the UNCCD, and UN Climate Change Compendium inclusion.

Sadhguru has undertaken massive ecological initiatives to deal with burning issues such as soil, water and climate change. The visionary humanitarian launched Rally for Rivers in 2017. With 162 million people backing the campaign, it became the most significant environmental movement in the world. Likewise, the Cauvery Calling initiative was launched in 2019 to restore the severely depleted river Cauvery in South India. Over the next 12 years, this movement aims to plant 2.42 billion trees through agroforestry in the
river basin.

During his 30,000-kilometre motorcycle journey from Europe to Southern India, Sadhguru inspired citizens, influencers, business and government leaders to prioritise soil revitalisation. There are now 3.91 billion people involved in Sadhguru’s Save Soil movement, making it the largest people’s movement in the world. The movement has so far attracted 81 nations, which is indeed a commendable achievement.

Sadhguru has received numerous prestigious awards for his wisdom and unwavering efforts to save the environment. In 2008, the Padma Vibhushan recipient received the Indira Gandhi Paryavaran Puraskar for his contributions to the Isha Foundation’s GreenHands Project.

A Passionate Edupreneur Par Excellence

With a strong belief that a child’s growth is measured in smiles and achievement is quantified by contentment, the Founder & Director of The Gaudium School, Ms. Kirthi Reddy is bent on nurturing children’s innate happiness through education that creates value and equips them with the wisdom to apply what they have learned joyfully.

“Ms. Kirthi is bent on nurturing children’s innate happiness through education that creates value & equips them with the wisdom to apply what they have learned joyfully”

Early Leanings

An alumna of Rutgers University, NJ, USA, Ms. Kirthi Reddy is a scion of the Promoter Group of Aurobindo Pharma, Hyderabad and has successfully contributed to its various verticals for 5 years. However, she had been deeply inclined to the sphere of education from the very beginning and the exposure and experience she gained during her study at Rutgers was a driving force which consistently motivated her to venture into the field of education. She was impacted by the environment, structure, processes and the overall learning process at Rutgers. Of particular interest to her was the convergence of many disciplines, across different walks of life in a seamless manner that encouraged and motivated students to not just assess their strengths and capabilities but also their passion. As a student at Rutgers, she experienced the coming together of academics, arts, sports and the corporate world – which enabled students to experiment, learn out of self-interest and tread on the path to self discovery.

A Visionary Thinker

The turning point in her life was the birth of her son which propelled her to give back to her country through the sphere of education by helping in creating a platform for future generations to experience what she herself did. She realised quickly that the current education ecosystem in India seemed to favour rote learning and was primarily testing the memory of the students rather than their actual learning and its application. Thus, the joy and satisfaction of learning were obviously missing in such a scenario. She felt that such kind of an education system is encouraging a mad race to get the highest marks or the biggest recognition, thereby ignoring meaningful learning. Thus, her passion to bring about a revolutionary change in the field of education led to the birth of The Gaudium School – where children are nurtured in an environment that fosters the spirit of curiosity and learning is accompanied with happiness. According to her, learning is not just about the subjects but involves holistic development of the students through sports, arts and theatre, thus she successfully incorporated all these elements into The Gaudium’s curriculum.

She established the school on a 27-acre campus on the outskirts of Hyderabad to enable the students to explore nature, be one with it and learn in an environment conducive to learning. This mega campus houses all things a child would wish to pursue – academics, arts, sports and theatre. Such an exposure enables children to be aware of their abilities and their likes and acts as their guiding path in their quest for learning.

Towards a Glistening Future

Ms. Kirthi believes that an invigorating learning environment at The Gaudium School is complemented by the learned and able faculty who ensure that students are provided with the right inputs at every level – academic, non-academic, emotional and physical. To further her goal of all-round development of the students, she intends to set up a training centre for teachers/staff to enable them to contribute to her vision of creating a better learning world for the children. She feels that as more and more children embrace this concept of learning, there would be a need for more and more guides for this journey.

Consistently working on her mission to sculpt happy minds, she feels extremely happy and content about the fact that a child stepping out of her institution will not merely excel in his or her chosen career but will also succeed as a well-balanced and culturally enriched human being with a positive approach to life.

Master Strategist

“Rishad Premji has been recognized as a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum for his leadership”

Rishad Premji took over as Chairman of Wipro from his father Azim Premji recently. He has been the Chief Strategy Officer and Member of the Board, responsible for shaping Wipro’s strategy to drive sustained & profitable growth.

In a transition that was on expected lines and set in motion more than a decade ago, the change of guard at Wipro is an absolute case study on how succession needs to be planned.

PASSING OVER THE BATON

Rishad Premji has taken over reins of Wipro at a challenging time, and has tough calls to make. He has large boots to fill and inherits a rich legacy of growth and achievement. His father Azim Premji not just built Wipro but also committed Rs 50,000 crore to charity, the largest contribution in the country to date. Azim Premji is one of the most respected business icons in the Indian corporate landscape. Under Azim Premji, Wipro went from a small vegetable oil company to a multibillion dollar IT giant. Along with the technology business, Wipro has significant presence in FMCG, infrastructure engineering and medical devices. Rishad Premji has the right credentials to take on this humungous responsibility at a time when the IT industry is battling a period of slow growth. 1.75 lakh employees at Wipro look towards Rishad Premji for his leadership and vision in these testing times. Rishad Premji’s diverse and cross industry experiences give him the benefit of a broad view of global business. He is firmly rooted in the values that are the bedrock of the company.

GROOMING OF A LEADER

After his schooling at Cathedral and John Connon School, Rishad Premji went on to graduate in Economics from Wesleyan University and then an MBA from Harvard University. Rishad Premji worked with Bain and Co. for two years across multiple industries including consumer products, automobiles, telecom and insurance. He then worked for four years with GE Capital in the US across several businesses. Interestingly, Rishad Premji got his first job at Wipro after going through a series of rigorous interviews, a fact which speaks volumes for the core values at Wipro. Rishad Premji joined Wipro in 2007 as Business Manager in the financial services division.

In the year 2010, he was elevated to the position of Chief Strategy Officer. He was the person behind conceptualizing and setting up of the Venture Capital fund – Wipro Ventures – a 100 million fund that invests in startups developing technologies an solutions. He led a few of acquisitions, including the purchase of Danish design Firm Designit, San Francisco based Cloud tech firm Appirio and German IT Consultancy Cellent. He has also invested $65 million in 18 startups.

Just like his father, Rishad Premji also takes keen interest in philanthropy. He is on the boards of the Azim Premji Foundation and Azim Premji Philanthropic Initiatives.Rishad Premji has been recognized as a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum for his outstanding leadership, professional accomplishments and commitment to society.

In a recent development, he led the company that is keen to partner startups in India to drive innovation and digital transformation for clients. According to him, “working with smaller companies is a significant change in strategy for Wipro as its customer base consists of large enterprises in the range of $2-10 billion.”

He is driving Wipro to work with smaller companies not only as customers but also by partnering with them or leveraging their capabilities to bring them into his sphere of innovations. He is keen on harnessing the different sectors of innovation in various parts of the broader ecosystem.