Mr. Honish Zaveri is a successful IT professional who started his journey in Angel Investing in the year 2021-22 post Covid. He was and still is an avid reader about the Start-up ecosystem in India. He started with doing small investments in promising early-stage startups to understand Angel Investing process.

Over just 3 years, he has built a portfolio of 10 Startups in sectors like Drones, AI/ML, Quantum Computing, and Consumer Tech. Coming from a technology background, his investment thesis is more focused on Tech B2B startups.

But just investing in startups as a passive investor was not enough for him, and he started thinking about how he could contribute more to the startup ecosystem. He first became a Venture Partner to prominent Angel Funds and Syndicates, scouting startups looking for funding, and successfully helped a Proptech startup based in Pune to raise funds. At that time, he started with the idea of starting his own Angel Investor community/syndicate. So, in January 2024, with just 4 family members to begin with, he started a WhatsApp group named Kiani Ventures. Over 1 year, Kiani Ventures has become a thriving community of 500+ members. Kiani Ventures is now a registered LLP firm and has also received the Startup India Certificate. We have successfully raised funds for Fluttr, a multilingual dating app built for Bharat, and many more success stories are in the pipeline. He is well-connected with the Investor ecosystem in India and regularly connects startups looking for funding with VC funds, Family Offices, and other Institutional Investors.

He is also a visiting faculty at Entrelogy Business School, teaching the subjects of Design Thinking and Angel Investing to the students. He has also successfully diversified Kiani Ventures in offering Pre IPO/ Unlisted Shares to its community members and has facilitated transactions worth more than 1 CR+ within the community.

He is not the person to rest on his laurels. He now plans to connect with Family Offices to help them invest in AIF funds. He is also planning to open an Angel Syndicate in US very soon. Also, he plans to diversify in other asset classes to offer to his Investor community which will help Kiani Ventures to become a full fledge wealth Management Firm.

His inspiring journey exemplifies determination, expertise, and sheer commitment to make India the Startup hub of the world. At IAF, we proudly celebrate him as a visionary leader who is contributing to India’s Startup ecosystem in a big way.

Mr. Ravi Kumar Kota stands as a global leader in data engineering, machine learning (ML), and artificial intelligence (AI), his career a testament to visionary strategy and relentless execution. With over 20 years in IT, including 15 years at the helm of transformative roles in Data Engineering, Marketing Technology, AI, Data Science, and ML, he has redefined how multi-billion-dollar enterprises harness data for competitive advantage. His fingerprints are on major successes at a global retail brand, a fintech titan, and a direct-to-consumer (D2C) innovator, each transformed by his ability to merge cutting-edge technology with business acumen.

His journey began with a Master’s in Business Administration from a top U.S. university. Armed with a blend of technical and strategic expertise, he entered the tech world determined to bridge innovation and impact. Today, as a key executive at a Fortune 500 company, he drives initiatives that have reshaped the data engineering, ML, and AI landscapes, setting benchmarks for industries worldwide.

His tenure at a global retail brand showcased his knack for unlocking value through data. By deploying advanced analytics and ML models, he revolutionized customer segmentation, enabling hyper-personalized marketing that boosted sales and deepened brand loyalty. In the fintech sector, he spearheaded secure, scalable data pipelines that slashed fraud detection times by 50%, safeguarding millions in transactions while enhancing customer trust. At a D2C company, his AI-driven recommendation engines prompted a spike in customer retention, proving his ability to turn data into tangible growth.

One of his defining achievements came at a global tech giant, where he led a sweeping data infrastructure overhaul. By integrating state-of-the-art AI and ML frameworks, he reduced data processing times by 40%, unlocking real-time insights that fueled a 15% revenue surge within two years. His early embrace of cloud-native platforms and real-time analytics not only saved millions in operational costs but also set new industry standards, influencing competitors and partners alike.

His leadership transcends technical brilliance. Renowned for building inclusive, high-performing teams, he has mentored hundreds of professionals, many of whom now lead at top-tier firms. His ability to align complex technical solutions with strategic business goals earned him the 2024 Global Data Leadership Award, a nod to his far-reaching influence.

Beyond the C-suite, he is a vocal advocate for ethical AI, championing transparency and fairness in ML and AI applications. His thought leadership, featured in global panels, white papers, and publications, shapes the discourse on responsible innovation. He advises startups and speaks at conferences, urging the industry to prioritize trust and accountability as data’s role expands.

His story is one of audacious innovation and enduring impact. As enterprises navigate the complexities of big data, ML, and AI, his vision ensures they don’t just compete—they lead. With a strategic mind and unwavering commitment, he isn’t just transforming retail, fintech, and D2C industries—he’s redefining the global future of data engineering, ML, and AI.

Ms. Sharvari Narendra’s journey towards the field of Bioinformatics started with a Master’s degree in Microbiology from India, followed by a Master’s degree in Bioinformatics from Northeastern University, Boston in the U.S.

During her Master’s in Bioinformatics, she interned at the McLean Hospital, where she studied the effect of alcohol use disorder on genes and pathways in the amygdala region of the brain of female mice. This research led to her first author publication in the Nature journal ‘Translational Psychiatry’. Post graduation, she was a part of a research project that studied how genes implicated in COVID-19 were regulated in different lung cell types across age (from newborns to adults) at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD). The manuscript that has been published on this research in eLife has over 150 citations. She joined BatchX (a bioinformatics start-up) as a Bioinformatics Software Engineer post-UCSD, wherein she developed a 16S pipeline from scratch. This pipeline reduced the analysis bottleneck by 600% and was used by >40% of BatchX clients, helping them in their research.

It was when she started working at the University of Virginia (UVA) as a Bioinformatics Analyst that she found her niche in microbial data analysis and antimicrobial resistance surveillance (with public health impact). She is a part of many ongoing projects, one of the most impactful being the “Ring Trial”. She was very instrumental in helping create, analyze end-to-end and complete the very first “Ring Trial” in the United States, under the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Pathogen Genomics Centers of Excellence Network (PGCoE) grant.

This “Ring Trial” aimed to understand how public health laboratories investigate hospital-mediated antimicrobial resistance outbreaks. She was instrumental in identifying significant gaps in bioinformatics analysis, which helped inform best practices. This project led her to win the first prize at the University of Virginia Research Computing Exhibition 2024 in the “Biological Sciences” category. The project was also highlighted in the CDC PGCoE network’s internal and external newsletter, and she presented it at the 2024 American Society for Microbiology (ASM) Conference on Rapid Applied Microbial Next-Generation Sequencing and Bioinformatic Pipelines (ASM NGS) as a poster. She is currently involved in creating a second iteration of the “Ring Trial”.

Outside of work, she was invited as a guest speaker to “The Bioinformatics Lab” podcast to share her career journey in Bioinformatics. Given her expertise in Bioinformatics, she had been invited to serve as a judge at the Greater San Diego Science & Engineering Fair (GSDSEF) as well as serve as a peer reviewer for various manuscripts in many prestigious journals such as “Cancer Cell International”, “PLOS ONE”, “Plant Stress”, “STAR Protocols”. She is currently serving as a mentor in the American Society for Microbiology (ASM) Future Leaders Mentorship Fellowship (FLMF) Program.

She is also a member of many well-known and established organizations such as American Society for Microbiology (ASM), the Public Health Alliance for Genomic Epidemiology (PHA4GE), the Association of Official Agricultural Chemists’s (AOAC) Stakeholder Program on Agent Detection Assays (SPADA) Metagenomics Working Group and the Open Science Data Repository’s (OSDR) ‘Microbes’ Analysis Working Group (AWG).

Aside from Bioinformatics, she is passionate about being a part of social organizations that make a difference in the world with science and research. To that end, she is serving as a member and a secretary of the American Society for Microbiology (ASM) Subcommittee on the Status of Women in Microbiology (SSWiM). She has also been crucial in writing two books on cancer: “Genetic Testing: A Game-Changer In Breast Cancer Management, by Laleh Busheri (2023)” and “Triumph Over Breast Cancer: Odysseys Of Phenomenal Women, by Laleh Busheri (2018)”, and was a co-editor of the blog “Science for Society” published in 2019

With over a decade of distinguished experience in Human Capital Management (HCM), Mrs. Anusha Atluri has emerged as a leading authority, seamlessly integrating technical prowess with functional expertise. Their comprehensive understanding of HCM systems and proficiency in Oracle Integration Cloud (OIC) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) have driven groundbreaking advancements in the field.

Throughout her career, she has spearheaded transformative initiatives that have redefined HR processes. By developing and implementing AI-driven solutions, they have enhanced operational efficiency, elevated employee experiences, and optimized workforce management. Her adeptness in configuring and customizing HCM modules, coupled with the integration capabilities of OIC, has enabled organizations to navigate complex challenges with agility and precision.

A hallmark of her contributions is her pioneering work in leveraging AI to analyze workforce data, providing actionable insights that inform strategic decision-making. Her innovative approaches have not only streamlined talent acquisition and retention strategies but have also set new benchmarks for predictive analytics in human resources.

Beyond her technical achievements, she is a visionary leader committed to fostering a culture of continuous improvement and collaboration. She has mentored cross-functional teams, promoting knowledge sharing and driving collective success. Her dedication to staying at the forefront of technological advancements ensures that the organizations they serve are equipped with cutting-edge solutions tailored to their unique needs.

Her unparalleled contributions to the HCM domain have garnered recognition from industry peers and thought leaders. As they continue to explore the transformative potential of AI and integration technologies, she remains steadfast in her mission to revolutionize human capital management practices, driving organizational excellence and fostering a more connected and efficient workplace.

Mr. Kathiravan Thangavelu is a visionary cloud leader with over two decades of experience architecting transformative technology solutions that empower businesses to scale, innovate, and thrive in a digital-first world.

His journey is rooted in a multidisciplinary academic foundation. He holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Washington, where he deepened his strategic and leadership capabilities in a global business context. He also earned a Master of Science in Software Systems, sharpening his technical acumen across large-scale computing systems. His foundational training in problem-solving and analytical thinking was cultivated through a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering.

Currently serving as a Principal Cloud Architect, he leads the design and delivery of scalable, secure, and enterprise-grade cloud solutions. His expertise spans application modernization, AI/ML integration, data platforms, and DevOps automation. As a trusted advisor to Fortune 500 companies, he works closely with C-level executives and IT leaders to align cloud strategy with business innovation, driving results through technical depth and empathetic stakeholder engagement.

He guided global enterprises through complex cloud migration journeys. His assessment frameworks and architectural designs enabled seamless transitions to cloud, accelerating digital adoption while minimizing business disruption.

He also spearheaded the development of cloud-native services, designing distributed systems with scalable deployment strategies, RESTful APIs, and CI/CD pipelines. His early innovations in multi-node services and load balancing reflected his forward-thinking approach to enterprise-grade infrastructure.

His tenure saw him grow from a software engineer to a technical manager, where he architected mission-critical systems, implemented performance-optimized modules, and mentored high-performing engineering teams. His leadership in driving CMMI-level delivery standards set the foundation for enduring software excellence.

Beyond his technical accomplishments, he is deeply committed to community advancement. As a mentor for the Startups Program, he empowers entrepreneurs to scale their visions through cloud innovation. He serves as an Advisory Board Member at Central Washington University, helping shape curriculum and industry relevance for the next generation of technologists.

Mr. Arun Ayilliath Keezhadath’s journey began with an outstanding academic foundation. He earned his Master of Technology in Computer Science and Engineering as the university gold medalist, demonstrating exceptional academic excellence. His undergraduate degree in Computer Science, with distinction, established his strong analytical and technical foundation.

He has built a remarkable career as a Senior Solutions Architect, driving transformative innovations in Big Data and AI. With extensive experience in professional services, he has crafted and delivered production-grade applications for Fortune 500 companies across diverse industries. He architected enterprise-scale data processing systems that save millions in operational costs for leading organizations. A notable achievement is his implementation of real-time analytics pipelines, setting new standards for processing efficiency and data insights.

He is a prolific author, having published research papers in prestigious journals covering Big Data, AI, NLP, Machine Learning, Pervasive Computing, et.al. His technical guides and white papers are widely referenced by professionals in the field. As an active contributor to open-source projects, including Apache Hadoop, Hive, NiFi, and Airflow, he demonstrates his commitment to community-driven innovation.

His professional excellence is further validated by industry certifications in cloud computing and big data technologies. Throughout his career, he has consistently received workplace accolades, including “Best Team” awards, “On the Spot” recognition for exceptional performance, and the coveted “Star Performer Award” for his outstanding contributions.

His impactful work has earned him prestigious recognitions, including elevation to IEEE Senior Member status (top 10% globally), the Global Recognition Award 2025, and the Global Achievers’ Award 2024-25, acknowledging his pioneering contributions to technology.

As a thought leader and mentor, he fosters innovation and knowledge sharing, establishing and leading the Big Data Analytics Center of Excellence. He envisions a data-driven future through the transformative potential of Big Data and AI. His inspiring journey exemplifies technical excellence, leadership, and innovation.

Growing up in Hyderabad, Telangana, India, Mr. Abdul Samad Mohammed was fascinated by how technology could solve complex problems. This curiosity led him to pursue a master’s in computer science in the USA, where he graduated with a 3.7 GPA. He specialized in advanced operating systems, distributed systems, web development, and automation. His academic rigor laid the foundation for his career in ensuring systems are fast, reliable, and scalable. 

He is a seasoned professional with over 12 years of rich experience in Platform Engineering and Site Reliability Engineering (SRE). Throughout my career, he has been passionate about building robust and scalable systems that empower businesses to deliver exceptional user experiences.

Platform Engineering Expertise: With a deep understanding of cloud-based platforms and modern infrastructure technologies, he has successfully architected and implemented highly available, resilient, and cost-effective systems. His focus on automation and continuous improvement has led to increased operational efficiency and minimized downtime for critical applications.

Site Reliability Engineering (SRE): As an advocate of SRE principles, he has played a pivotal role in bridging the gap between development and operations teams. His approach centers around enhancing system reliability, monitoring, and incident response, thereby ensuring smooth operations in high-pressure environments.

DevOps and CI/CD: he is well-versed in implementing DevOps practices and establishing CI/CD pipelines to streamline the software delivery process. His dedication to reducing deployment cycles and increasing code quality has significantly accelerated product development.

Team Leadership and Collaboration: Over the years, he has honed his leadership skills, effectively managed cross-functional teams, and fostered a culture of collaboration. He thrives in dynamic work environments, driving cohesive efforts towards shared goals and encouraging professional growth within the team.

Problem Solver: His analytical mindset and attention to detail enable him to identify potential bottlenecks and proactively address challenges. He thrives in complex problem-solving scenarios, devising innovative solutions that have a positive impact on business outcomes.

He is committed to staying at the forefront of technological advancements, constantly seeking opportunities to learn and grow. As a natural team player, he finds immense satisfaction in mentoring and guiding colleagues to achieve their full potential.

Dr. Sreeram Mullankandy stands as a distinguished figure at the intersection of medicine, technology, and business innovation. His remarkable journey from a Gold Medal-winning physician to a pioneering healthcare technology leader exemplifies the transformative impact one visionary can have on global healthcare delivery.

His academic excellence began at Amrita School of Medicine, where he earned the Gold Medal of Excellence in Arts while completing his medical degree. This foundation was further strengthened at Boston University’s Questrom School of Business, where he was honored as a Dean’s Achievement Scholar with a $70K merit-based scholarship, demonstrating his exceptional leadership potential.

His groundbreaking work across prestigious organizations evidences his professional impact. At Elumina Health, as Director of Product Management & Clinical Quality, he pioneered a Generative AI-Powered Data Extraction System that achieved a 20% improvement in operational efficiency. His innovation at Biofourmis Inc. led to the enhancement of AI-driven remote patient monitoring systems deployed at the Mayo Clinic, improving sensitivity by 20% and reducing clinician alert fatigue by an impressive 95%.

His thought leadership is reflected in his extensive publication portfolio, including 10+ peer-reviewed journal articles in prestigious publications, focusing on cutting-edge topics such as AI applications in healthcare and remote health technologies. He has presented critically reviewed conference papers at prominent forums, addressing crucial topics like AI in electronic health records and mitigating hallucinations in large language models. His industry influence extends through 8+ articles published in leading magazines, including Towards AI, AI Advances, and Agile Insider.

Numerous prestigious awards and honors recognize his expertise. In addition to his academic accolades, he received the Clinic Without Walls (CWoW) Award at DaVita and the Spark Award & Arc Certification of Excellence at Humana. His team’s innovation earned Third Place at the MIT Grand Hack (2021), competing against 4,000+ global participants. His selection for the Hive Global Leaders Program (Harvard Edition, 2017) further validates his leadership capabilities.

His impact extends beyond corporate achievements. As a judge and mentor for global startup accelerators, including MassChallenge, Techstars, and MIT Launch X, he has evaluated hundreds of startups across industries. His expertise is certified through over 20 professional credentials from institutions like Stanford and MIT Sloan, including specialized certifications in AI, project management, and healthcare innovation.

His technical innovations have consistently delivered measurable results: a 15% reduction in adverse outcomes through AI-based risk stratification, 67% improvement in efficiency through IT modernization at Humana, and the successful launch of the BK3500 ultrasound system at Analogic Corporation, generating $50M in revenue.

As a member of prestigious organizations including the Forbes Technology Council, IEEE (Senior Member), and the Coalition of Health AI (CHAI), he continues to shape the future of healthcare technology. His work exemplifies the powerful combination of medical expertise, technological innovation, and business acumen, making him a transformative force in global healthcare delivery.

This recognition by the International Achievers Award acknowledges not just his achievements but also his lasting contribution to healthcare innovation and his commitment to improving patient outcomes through technological advancement.

Capt. Indraani Singh Grewal’s journey is one of remarkable vision, grit, and impact. Breaking barriers in aviation, she became the world’s first woman commander on the Airbus-300 in 1995, establishing herself as a pioneer in a traditionally male-dominated field. But her most transformative flight has been on the ground—empowering communities across India through education, entrepreneurship, and sustainability.

With over 33 years in aviation and an unwavering commitment to social impact, she founded Literacy India in 1996, which has since impacted over 975,000 lives and engaged 4.7 million individuals through multifaceted programs focused on education, skill development, and digital inclusion.

She is not just a social innovator—she is a creative force and a changemaker. As a photographer, sustainable craft designer, and entrepreneur, she has enabled over 3.1 lakh grassroots entrepreneurs and empowered more than 10,000 rural women through her initiative Indha, blending traditional crafts with contemporary markets.

Her contributions to digital education and experiential learning are game-changing. From GyanTantra–Digital Dost, which is transforming how children learn, to the Vidyapeeth–Pathshala–Gurukul continuum, which nurtures real-world problem-solving and changemaking in youth, her vision integrates technology, creativity, and purpose. In collaboration with Code.org, Literacy India is also building the next generation of coders across its centres.

Beyond education, she is a passionate advocate for sustainability and corporate social responsibility, having developed scalable CSR engagement models, renewable energy solutions, and waste recycling innovations that reflect her deep environmental consciousness.

She has been featured on the cover of California’s Women Achievers Magazine and honoured with prestigious accolades, including the Limca Book of Records, Godfrey Phillips Bravery Award, Power to Empower Award, and a Lifetime Achievement Award by the International Congress of Women.

She is celebrated not only for her pioneering spirit but also for her transformative leadership, inclusive innovation, and her relentless drive to empower individuals to build a better, more equitable India. As a proud recipient of the Indian Achievers Award, she exemplifies how one visionary can redefine both the skies and the soul of a nation through purpose-driven innovation and lifelong service.

With over 12 years of significant experience in the pharmaceutical and medical device industries, Ms. Lalitha Amarapalli has consistently excelled in roles focused on Computer System Validation (CSV), Data Integrity Compliance, Software Quality Assurance, and compliance adherence under rigorous U.S. FDA and ICH regulations. Her unwavering dedication and deep technical expertise have profoundly shaped compliance management and validation practices within highly regulated healthcare environments.

Throughout her career, she has skilfully navigated complex regulatory landscapes, successfully leading critical validation projects. Her comprehensive expertise spans all stages of computerized system lifecycle management – Planning, Requirements Analysis, Design, Coding, Testing, Deployment, Maintenance, and Retirement. One of her recent standout initiatives includes leading a comprehensive compliance and remediation project specifically aimed at enhancing 21 CFR Part 11 adherence, fortifying data integrity. Similarly, she introduced the CI/CD (Continuous Integration and Continuous Delivery) software delivery process, which helped the teams achieve faster development, faster releases, early bug detection, and improved software quality.

Academically, she holds a Master of Science degree in Analytical Chemistry from Governors State University, which laid a strong foundation in analytical and problem-solving capabilities crucial to her professional success. Additionally, her credentials as a Certified Software Quality Engineer from the American Society for Quality further solidify her ability to deliver superior validation and compliance outcomes.

Beyond her technical capabilities, she has demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities, effectively supervised cross-functional teams, and mentored emerging professionals in compliance and validation. Dedicated to quality assurance and innovation, she is a trusted expert in compliance methodologies and solutions. As she progresses in her professional journey, she is well-positioned to significantly influence and advance compliance and validation practices across the pharmaceutical and medical device industries.

Mrs. Akanksha Samuel’s story is one of true dedication and visionary leadership, focused on both academic excellence and environmental sustainability. As the Principal of PM SHR Kendriya Vidyalaya No.1 Ordnance Factory Katni, her journey reflects her commitment to making a meaningful impact in education and raising awareness about vital environmental issues. Her career as a Principal Academician is filled with numerous accolades at both state and national levels. Her innovative approach to integrating cleanliness and green practices into the school culture has been widely recognized.

Notably, at Kendriya Vidyalaya No.2, GCF, Jabalpur, her efforts led to multiple state-level awards such as the “Harit Vidyalaya” and “Swachh Vidyalaya” puraskar. Her leadership culminated in the school becoming the only one in Madhya Pradesh to win the prestigious “Swachh Vidyalaya Puraskar” at the national level in 2022, underscoring her commitment to a cleaner, greener future.

Upon her transfer to PM SHRI Kendriya Vidyalaya No.1, Katni, her passion for environmental issues, particularly water conservation, took center stage. The region’s water crisis, exacerbated by excessive mining, sparked her innovative approach to water management. Right from establishing traditional rainwater harvesting and bio composting, her innovative idea of covering shallow pits with perforated lids and having perforated drains ensured zero water waste. The data on the Piezometer reflect that the simple efforts were instrumental in raising the water table. The creative solution of using glucose bottles and IV sets for irrigation has gathered attention from the Ministry of Education, further validating her leadership. Her dedication extends beyond the school grounds.

She actively involves the local community, using student-created murals and posters at Katni South Railway Station to spread awareness about water conservation. The students’ weekly interactions with passengers on the trains serve as an example of how small actions can lead to significant change. These efforts led to national-level recognition from the Center for Science and Environment in 2024, where the school was honored with the “Change Maker Award.” She received a certificate of leadership for her contribution to resource efficiency and for nurturing environmentally conscious students.

Her relentless work was further celebrated by common people as well as local leaders, including the Mayor and MLA of Katni, showing the widespread appreciation of her efforts. Through her leadership, she is demonstrating how education can be a powerful tool in creating a sustainable future. By inspiring the next generation to take ownership of environmental conservation, she’s laying down the foundation for a greener, more sustainable tomorrow.

Her journey exemplifies the profound impact that one leader can have in both the education sector and the broader community, proving that true leadership is about inspiring change and improving lives.

Mr. Yash Patel, a seasoned cybersecurity expert, academic researcher, and advocate for digital safety. With over eight years of hands-on experience in Information Security and a body of published research that has made waves globally, his name is synonymous with innovation and integrity in the cybersecurity landscape.

Currently serving as a Senior Software Engineer at Microsoft, he has played a pivotal role in transforming the security posture of enterprise security services. His work includes automating crucial, tedious tasks, leading incident response, planning, and architecting secure software solutions for high-risk enterprise environments. His contributions have consistently fortified critical digital systems, impacting thousands of users worldwide.

Beyond the corporate sphere, he has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to academic advancement and community education. His research, particularly in “Cybersecurity in Healthcare,” has garnered international attention, highlighting vulnerabilities in critical infrastructure and proposing resilient defense mechanisms for protecting sensitive patient data. His paper, Cybersecurity in Healthcare: Protecting Critical Infrastructure Against Evolving Threats, was a key driver behind the nomination for this prestigious award.

He is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Cyber Security from Capella University, building upon a rich academic foundation that includes a M.S. degree from NYIT and numerous technological and industry certifications. His prolific research has been published in high-impact journals, and he serves as a reviewer, speaker, and mentor, helping shape the next generation of cybersecurity professionals.

His recognition with the Indian Achievers Award 2025 is a testament to his tireless work in fostering a cybersecurity-aware community, advocating for innovation in critical national infrastructure, and bridging the gap between industry practices and academic excellence. From training children on cyber safety through Mentors Without Borders to influencing policy-level discussions on IT governance, he continues to lead with purpose and vision with multiple non-government organizations like Cyber NGO, Live2Serve, and Cry America. As an active contributor to international conferences, journals, and a respected figure in global cybersecurity circles, he believes that “true success lies in using knowledge to empower others and protect what matters most to people and their data.”

Mrs. Swetha Talakola holds a Bachelor of Engineering in Computer Science and Information Technology from JNTU University, Hyderabad, India, where she built a solid foundation in programming, database management, and software development principles.

With over 18 years of experience in software development, testing, and automation, she has built a successful career in driving excellence across diverse domains, including Web, Mobile, E-commerce, Finance, POS, and Client/Server applications. Her strong expertise in Agile-Scrum methodologies and proficiency in a wide range of testing and development tools have allowed her to deliver high-impact results consistently.

In her recent role at Walmart, she led the development of a complex JavaScript application that automated financial reporting, reducing manual input by 70%. She also developed and maintained a robust end-to-end automation testing suite using Selenium, Cypress, and Playwright, which lowered defect rates by 60%. Her deep knowledge of Microsoft Azure SQL and Power BI DAX enabled her to validate front-end data accurately, improving the reliability of financial dashboards.

Additionally, she optimized backend performance by implementing server-side applications using NestJS, reducing response times by 44%. Through continuous integration and deployment pipelines, she also applied AI-driven testing strategies to enhance regression, smoke, and UAT testing processes, ensuring high-quality product delivery. Through collaboration and Agile methodologies, she contributed to a 15% increase in project delivery speed while maintaining stringent quality standards.

Her contributions have been recognized with multiple awards, including the Verizon Ovation Awards (2013, 2014) and the Walmart Make A Difference Awards (2022, 2023, 2024). She has also been acknowledged with Verizon CIO, Vice President, and Managing Director recognitions for “Performance Excellence.”

As a strong team player with excellent communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills, she continues to drive innovation and deliver high-quality software solutions, exceeding organizational goals and ensuring customer satisfaction.

Mrs. Diba Roy, a dedicated social worker, has been a beacon of hope for the downtrodden women and children of Barak Valley. As the Founder Secretary of Nivedita Nari Sangstha (NNS), established in 1996, she has tirelessly worked to promote their welfare, focusing on education, health, and socio-economic development.

Driven by her compassion, Mrs. Roy voluntarily established Hiranbala Pathshala, a primary school at Kanakpur Part 1, in memory of her late mother, Hiranbala Dutta. She also played a pivotal role in setting up a Health Sub-Centre at Kanakpur Part 2, which has benefitted over 10,000 people. The land for the centre was donated by Dr. M. Ahmed, and its construction was supported by the Assam Area Project under the World Bank Scheme.

Under her leadership, NNS has been actively combating child marriage, child trafficking, child labor, and child sexual abuse. A notable achievement was the organization’s participation in the Child Marriage Free India Campaign in Rosekandy Pt. 1 & Pt. 2, covering over 50 villages. As a registered non-profit (Reg. No RS/CA/243/43 of 1997-98, NITI Aayog Reg. No AS/2015/0087623), NNS has made significant strides in creating social awareness and driving change.

From May 2023 to May 2024, she led Access to Justice 2.0, a collaboration with Kailash Satyarthi Children’s Foundation US. This initiative focused on child protection, education, and empowerment, supporting victims and coordinating with stakeholders for their rehabilitation.

Her relentless efforts have earned her numerous accolades, including the Ambedkar Fellowship Award (1998), Chief Minister’s Best Community Action Award (2012), Leadership Award by World CSR Congress (2017), and The Pride of Barak Award. Recognized by prestigious institutions like Assam University and Lions Club Silchar, she continues to inspire change through her unwavering commitment to social justice.

Mr. Vinay Singh, possessing over 18 years of professional experience, currently holds the position of Oracle Fusion Cloud Lead at McGraw Hill, USA. He is presently undertaking a Master of Business Administration at the Max M. Fisher College of Business at Ohio State University, USA, and obtained a Bachelor of Engineering in Computer Science and Engineering from Agra University (now Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar University) in 2003. Throughout his distinguished career, he has been employed in multiple companies and industries in India and the USA, demonstrating his versatility and adaptability in varied professional settings. His outstanding work in the areas of Oracle fusion cloud, Oracle EBS, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) for e-commerce applications underlines his ability as a worldwide technology leader.

As a prolific researcher, he has published multiple articles in peer-reviewed international journals. His research work has significantly influenced the field, with a particular emphasis on Oracle fusion cloud, ERP Systems, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) applications.

He has actively participated in conferences as a reviewer, received a Certificate of Excellence in Reviewing from “Asian Journal of Research in Computer Science”, received a “IOP peer review excellence certification” from IOP publishing and advisory board member. His work in these areas emphasizes his commitment to promote innovation and increase knowledge.

Being a productive researcher, he has written several papers in peer-reviewed worldwide journals. With specific focus on Oracle fusion cloud, ERP Systems, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) applications, his research has greatly shaped the sector. As a reviewer, he has been involved in conferences, earned a Certificate of Excellence in Reviewing from “Asian Journal of Research in Computer Science,” and “IOP peer review excellence certification” from IOP publishing and advisory board member. His responsibilities in these positions highlight his commitment to promote knowledge and support creativity.

His notable influence and exceptional efforts are attested by the Indian Achievers’ Forum’s “INTERNATIONAL ACHIEVERS’ AWARD“. This award honors his outstanding accomplishments and his contribution to technology developments helping the Financial, Supply chain, publishing and other sectors. His work underlines his reputation as a visionary leader and inventor by showing the possibilities of AI and ML integration with Oracle fusion cloud & Oracle ERP to change several industries.

His professional trajectory is marked by unrelenting search for excellence and continuous development. His educational background, professional experience, and research accomplishments make him a thought leader in AI and ML for ERP applications. Apart from pushing technology, his work greatly benefits society, hence his acknowledgment is justified and his future contributions much anticipated.

Mr. Anil Kumar Kandalam’s remarkable journey began with a deep interest in logical reasoning, steering him to complete a Bachelor of Technology in Computer Science at JNTU Hyderabad in 2011. This foundation fueled his ascent as a transformative figure in technology.

As a Lead Platform Engineer at P\S\L Group, he has dedicated over 14 years to reshaping healthcare through AI and cloud innovation. His expertise has produced platforms that equip healthcare professionals with rapid, reliable data from trusted sources, significantly enhancing patient care efficiency. During the COVID-19 pandemic, his leadership accelerated data delivery, reducing timelines from weeks to days, providing critical support to frontline workers.

His brilliance lies in integrating advanced solutions with existing systems, avoiding costly disruptions. His cloud migrations for JetBlue Airways and Allstate Insurance cut maintenance costs by 30%, blending scalability with savings. He has optimized data workflows for precision and speed and is proficient in AWS, Generative AI, and Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) pipelines.

Beyond technical mastery, he is a guiding light in mentorship, recognized as a Super Mentor in ADPList’s top 0.1% globally and top 10 in AI/ML engineering mentors on ADPList. He empowers professionals globally, drawing multiple certifications from AWS, TIBCO, and Databricks. His impactful work has earned him the International Achievers’ Award 2024-25 from the International Achievers’ Forum, recognizing his pioneering role in AI-driven healthcare.

He envisions a future where technology seamlessly enhances healthcare delivery, a vision he pursues with relentless innovation. His story reflects determination, expertise, and a commitment to societal progress from his roots in Andhra Pradesh to global acclaim. At IAF, we celebrate him as a visionary leader crafting a smarter, healthier world through technology and mentorship.

Mr. Durga Rajesh Duvvi’s journey is one of resilience, curiosity, and a passion for building impactful financial products. With a Master’s in Project Management, he embarked on a career that blends deep technical expertise with a strategic mindset, always striving to push the boundaries of digital banking and fintech.

From his early days in product management to leading innovations at Niyo, Wells Fargo, Razorpay, NTT Data, and KiwiBank, he has played a key role in shaping the financial technology landscape. At Niyo, he helped design investment platforms and lending solutions, making financial services more accessible and user-friendly. His time at Wells Fargo was marked by AI-driven banking innovations, transforming lending and credit systems to improve efficiency and compliance. At Razorpay, he focused on enhancing digital payment solutions, helping businesses streamline financial transactions. Now, as a Product Manager at KiwiBank, he continues to lead cutting-edge fintech solutions that empower users and businesses alike. Beyond building products, he is deeply invested in mentorship and leadership, guiding teams through complex challenges while fostering a culture of innovation. His ability to bridge technology, business, and user needs has led to the successful scaling of multiple products, driving real impact in the fintech space.

Winning the Indian Achievers Award is a recognition of Durga’s unwavering dedication to innovation, transformation, and leadership. For him, fintech isn’t just about technology; it’s about creating seamless, accessible, and empowering financial solutions for everyone. As he continues his journey, one thing is certain: his contributions will leave a lasting mark on the future of digital banking.

From humble beginnings in Kashmir, Dr. Tasaduk Hussain Itoo rose to become a renowned medical professional, earning numerous accolades and recognition globally.

His academic excellence and clinical expertise paved the way for his success. He completed his Bachelor of Science degree from University of Kashmir, MBBS degree from University of Jammu and went on to earn a Certificate Program for Clinicians in Diabetes Management (CPCDM) accredited by Research Society for the Study of Diabetes in India (RSSDI).

As a Senior Medical Officer at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Narayana Superspeciality Hospital, Jammu, he demonstrated exceptional clinical skills, compassion, and leadership. His commitment to patient care and community service earned him the respect and admiration of his peers and patients.

He is affiliated with several prestigious organizations, including the American College of Physicians (USA), Research Society for the Study of Diabetes in India (RSSDI), Royal College of Physicians of London, Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh, and International Diabetes Federation (IDF), Belgium, where he holds the distinguished title of IDF Fellow.

His achievements extend beyond his clinical practice. As an author and writer, he has written numerous articles, essays, and columns in leading newspapers, journals, and magazines. His literary pursuits are a testament to his versatile talent and passion for creative expression. His writing style is engaging, informative, and inspirational, making complex medical concepts accessible to a broad audience.

His literary achievements have been recognized through several awards, including the National Literature Award 2025. His columns have been widely read and appreciated, offering valuable insights on healthcare, social issues, and personal development. Through his writings, he has raised awareness about various health issues, promoting education and prevention.

His literary pursuits have cemented his legacy as a multifaceted personality, leaving an indelible mark on the literary and medical worlds. His commitment to creative expression and his ability to connect with readers through his writing have made him a respected and admired figure in both fields.

His success story serves as an inspiration to aspiring medical professionals, demonstrating that hard work, determination, and a passion for making a difference can lead to remarkable achievements and a lasting impact on the world.

Ms. Sunita Uthra is a distinguished technology leader with 25 years of experience driving business transformation and meaningful impact across Fortune 500 companies in the U.S. and India.

Combining technical expertise, strategic vision, and a passion for empowerment, she champions technology as a force for progress. Throughout her career, she has led large-scale digital transformation initiatives that enhance customer experiences, drive sustainable growth, and optimize operations. Her leadership philosophy—rooted in resilience, continuous learning, and empowerment—inspires others to embrace innovation for meaningful change.

Beyond technology, she is deeply committed to mentoring the next generation of leaders, helping them navigate the evolving digital landscape while driving positive societal impact. She actively supports leadership development programs, ensuring technology advances not just business goals but also uplifts communities.

An accomplished author, she co-wrote Letters to My Corporate Sisters and Resilient: The Power to Get Back Up, sharing insights on leadership, growth, and resilience. Her impact has earned her multiple accolades, including the 2023 eWOW Global Technology Leadership Award and recognition as a finalist for the 2024 ISG Women in Digital Award.

With an unwavering vision and a purpose-driven approach, she continues to shape the future of technology and leadership, proving that when innovation is fueled by compassion, it has the power to transform lives.

Ms. Smriti Sahay is a highly esteemed Advocate and a seasoned authority in income tax litigation, corporate law, PMLA, Benami transactions, and insolvency matters. A trailblazer in the legal and financial spheres, she achieved the remarkable feat of earning her Chartered Accountant (CA) and Company Secretary (CS) qualifications by the age of 22. With over eight years of comprehensive experience, she has adeptly represented clients before the Supreme Court and numerous High Courts across India.

As the Senior Partner of M/s Alka Law Associates, she offers invaluable strategic legal counsel, high-profile litigation representation, and expert tax advisory services. Her practice spans a broad range of taxation, financial regulations, and corporate compliance, with a keen focus on addressing complex legal challenges.

Outside of her professional accomplishments, she is deeply dedicated to social empowerment. In line with her commitment to a ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India), she founded Alka Samraak Pustakaalye—a library devoted to underprivileged girls in Danapur, Patna. This initiative aims to foster education and promote access to knowledge, empowering future generations.

Ms. Narinder Kaur is a shining testament to human strength and empathy. She has transformed the challenges life threw at her into a profound mission of hope. As the driving force behind SURTAJ Special Children Foundation, she dedicates her energy to uplifting parents of special children, helping them rediscover their strength and navigate through life’s trials.

Her many roles—Mental Health Counsellor, Life Coach, Keynote Speaker, POSH Enabler, Talk Show Host, and Employee Engagement Expert—speak volumes about her dynamism and resolve. Her exceptional efforts haven’t gone unnoticed; her accolades include the prestigious International Achiever’s Award in Women Empowerment to Stop Domestic Violence, the Woman Achiever’s Award from Atmanirbhar Awards for her inspiring journey, WICA Woman Award, Top-100 Women Icon Award, Dynamic Woman Platinum Award from PNGI Forum, and Women Icon of the Year-2025 for her unparalleled contributions to Mission Viksit Bharat.

Her story is deeply personal and remarkably inspiring. As the single mother of a 100% special girl child with cerebral palsy—a daughter who has been bedridden for 14 years—her life has been a testament to unwavering courage. In 2019, after enduring domestic violence, she walked away to rebuild a life grounded in dignity and self-worth. Yet, instead of allowing her hardships to overshadow her, she channeled them into a transformative purpose: to empower and guide other special parents facing trauma and depression.

Her journey extends beyond her mission. She is also a Ph.D. scholar, delving into the psychological impact on parents of special children. Through her research papers, articles, and journal publications, she is making remarkable contributions to this critical field of study.

With over 24 years of corporate experience spanning Employee Engagement, Travel, Operations, and Event Management, she exemplifies resilience and versatility. Her ability to succeed across diverse sectors underscores her commitment and expertise.

She believes, “Special children choose their mothers before birth to carry out God’s work. I feel blessed to be one of them.” Through her unbreakable spirit and divine purpose, she continues to illuminate the lives of countless families. Her work with the SURTAJ Special Children Foundation is a lasting reminder that love and determination can lead to extraordinary miracles.

With over 20 years of leadership, Ms. Monalisa Samal spearheads transformative analytics and risk management as Global Head of Data & Risk Analytics at Xceedance. A visionary in building teams from 5 to 750+ professionals, she scaled revenues in a decade, leveraging automation, AI, and digital solutions to drive efficiency for 50+ global clients—95% of whom rate the services as “exceptional.”

She has worked for reshaping delivery models in catastrophe modeling and exposure management, end-to-end risk analytics, predictive modeling, and creating next-gen platforms that fuel 20%+ annual growth. Her strategic acumen spans incubating innovation, establishing R&D teams, and deploying robotics to optimize processes, earning her a seat in higher management discussions impacting global P&L.

A data-driven leader, she harmonizes distributed teams across geographies, maintaining single-digit attrition for high performers and flawless governance. Her credentials include a Master’s degree in Financial Management, a Business Analytics from IIM Bangalore, and fellowship with the Insurance Institute of India apart from being robotics certified consultant and certified in catastrophe risk modelling. She merges academic rigor with hands-on expertise in product development and global client management.

Before Xceedance, she honed her craft in fraud risk management, CAT modeling, and cross-continental consulting at leading insurers and reinsurance brokers. She excels in building operational models, managing multimillion-dollar engagements, and fostering cultures of continuous improvement.

Key achievements include:

• Leading exposure management, actuarial services, and AI-driven product development.
• Generating organic growth through data engineering and predictive analytics.
• Founding catastrophe research teams for model validation and portfolio strategies.

Her legacy lies in empowering teams, redefining industries, and delivering resilient solutions. For her, leadership is not just metrics—it’s about creating waves of change, one strategic leap at a time.