Ashlesha’s journey began with a strong foundation in tech, graduating with honors with a Computer Science Engineering degree from BITS Pilani. After working as a software developer at Cisco Systems, the desire to make a bigger impact through her work led her to make a strategic leap into business, with an MBA from the prestigious IIM Bangalore. This unique blend of deep technical understanding and business acumen has allowed her to be force multiplier in terms of creating impact at scale across industries throughout her career.

Ashlesha was hand-picked among a select few right out of B-school to join Aditya Birla Group’s leadership program where she worked with CXOs across B2B sales, marketing, M&A and strategy. During her stint at Aditya Birla Group, she launched Allen Solly, a top apparel brand in India, across online marketplaces. She grew the online sales channel from 0 to 1, creatively leveraging AI to unlock growth. After spending some time with the Aditya Birla Group, she joined Amazon in 2016, and has had one of the fastest growth trajectories at Amazon.

At Amazon, Ashlesha has led multiple global launches of AI-enabled products and features. She leads technical product development that uses AI to power all the music experiences from Amazon Music on Alexa. She works with engineering and science teams across the globe on the most cutting-edge AI technologies to create first-to-world music experiences on Alexa. Her work has created positive PR for Amazon in leading publications like VentureBeat, VoiceBot.ai, Pocket-lint, Tech Advisor, and more.

Ashlesha has made contributions to the field of voice technology that extend beyond her job. She has filed 2 patents and published numerous whitepapers in the field of AI in Voice Assistants, a testament to her commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation. She is on the Board of Editors for multiple AI and ML journals like the International Journal of AI Research and Development (IJAIRD). She is seen as a top industry expert in the field of AI and voice assistants, with press coverage about her in top publications like Khaleej Times, Tech Bullion, NY Weekly and others.

Ashlesha is also currently serving as the co-chair for Human Computer Interaction at the prestigious Grace Hopper Celebration (biggest conference for women in tech with 30K+ participants across 115 countries).

Looking forward, with the advent of the latest developments in AI, particularly Large Language Models, Ashlesha is at the forefront of this AI development, leading and influencing the voice assistant space to leverage these technologies to provide users with personalized, delightful yet ethical and safe product experiences.

Ashlesha’s mission and vision is to be a thought leader and influencing voice to help companies across the world use AI in a positive and ethical way to improve lives.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleshakadam/

Presently serving as a “Senior DevSecOps Engineer” at Splunk Inc., Sandeep’s expertise envelops the entire software development lifecycle. From initial requirement gathering and architectural design to deployment, monitoring, continuous integration/continuous delivery (CI/CD), and Cybersecurity, he commands a firm grasp of a wide spectrum of DevOps tools and technologies—more than 50 in number. His instrumental role in guiding Splunk’s Observability journey has provided him with a remarkable opportunity to showcase product demos to Splunk’s Global Customers and Partners at the annual .Conf23 event in Las Vegas.

Sandeep boasts a Master of Science in Computer Software Engineering from Stratford University and a Bachelor of Science in Technology from JNTU Hyderabad, India. Prior to his tenure at Splunk, Sandeep made significant contributions to an array of customer-facing high-profile projects spanning Healthcare, Financial, and SaaS domains. His contributions invariably improved development processes and overall infrastructure performance, solidifying his reputation as an innovative leader within DevOps teams.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Sandeep has served as a Judge for UCMerced University Hackathons and a Judging Member of the USA National Level TSA 2023 Competitions. He currently holds the role of an active International Peer Review board member for the IJCSMA journal and an Associate member of IADAS. He has also authored multiple scholarly articles in reputable Journals and Trade magazines. In the realm of non-profit work, Sandeep volunteers as a “Software Project Manager,” leveraging his expertise to mentor and support communities in the Technology domain.

Born into a family where financial constraints were an unwavering companion, Rakesh’s childhood was a tapestry of challenges that could have easily quelled his dreams. However, his unwavering determination and insatiable curiosity propelled him along a trajectory that would indelibly mark the realm of technology.

From a tender age, it was evident that Rakesh was destined for greatness. His academic brilliance radiated, consistently securing top ranks in both school and college. Scholarships and accolades from esteemed institutions such as the Ramakrishna Mission Education Fund and Udaan Charitable Society punctuated his journey, a testament to his unrelenting pursuit of knowledge. Despite facing numerous hardships, Rakesh’s dedication to his studies remained unwavering, illuminating even the darkest moments. His passion for network security started during this tender age, when he invented a partial image encryption algorithm collaborating with Indian Statistical Institute.

After completing his engineering degree from the prestigious RCC IIT Kolkata, Rakesh’s talent caught the attention of tech giants. He joined CISCO, a powerhouse in the world of networking and technology, where he honed his skills and solidified his reputation as an exceptional software engineer. During his tenure at CISCO, Rakesh conceptualized several groundbreaking ideas, including name-based dialing. The software products he developed in CISCO, are used by billions of people all around the world. He was one of the few Indians who was awarded the prestigious Facebook Whitehat Hall of Fame, for saving billions of dollars by proactively finding and rectifying the security vulnerabilities in their product.

However, Rakesh’s ambitions didn’t stop there. After a tremendous academic and professional journey in India, Rakesh pursued a Master’s degree at San Jose State University (SJSU). At SJSU, Rakesh’s brilliance continued to shine.He received the prestigious Davidson Student Scholarship for his path breaking research work namely P4Guard, which has over 40 citations. His research was sponsored by the prestigious National Science Foundation(NSF).

Completing his degree, Rakesh joined Viasat, driving network observability for Viasat 2’s triumphant satellite launch. Today, a venerated Senior Technical Leader at Microsoft, his sought-after security expertise influences global giants like Facebook and others. Invitations to elite conferences as a speaker, including LinuxFest NorthWest and DeveloperWeek, underscore his thought leadership. He’s a discerning judge for esteemed international awards, molding Microsoft’s cybersecurity landscape.

Rakesh Datta’s journey inspires dreamers, defying backgrounds and circumstances. His story reaffirms that unwavering determination, boundless pursuit of knowledge, and resolute commitment forge a path from humble beginnings to technical eminence. As the sun sets over Silicon Valley, it radiates warmth on Rakesh’s remarkable journey—an India-born beacon of hope for global technologists.

Embracing the philosophy of impactful actions, KP’s mentorship has fostered the growth of numerous leaders, solidifying his reputation as a respected figure in the IT industry. With over 25 years of experience at CGI, KP has consistently provided leadership, innovative solutions, and thought leadership in crafting enterprise solutions for major global financial institutions. Armed with a Bachelor’s degree in Electronics and Communications, KP is a preeminent Subject Matter Expert (SME) in Capital Banking, Markets domain, and Data space.

KP’s distinction within CGI is further underscored by his recognition as the recipient of the prestigious CGI Builder Award in 2019. This esteemed accolade was in honor of his exceptional contributions to expanding CGI’s presence into Tier 2 cities during challenging times, a testament to his deep domain competence within the Banking sector coupled with an unwavering culture of innovation.

An active contributor to knowledge dissemination, KP has presented a multitude of whitepapers through DCAL (hosted by IIM-B) and inspired CGI professionals to deliver over 75 whitepapers over the past decade. His commitment to addressing the skill gap is evidenced through numerous connect sessions with college graduates, a laudable endeavor that highlights his forward-thinking leadership and mentorship role in NASSCOM W2RT.

KP’s engagement extends beyond the professional sphere, as he emerges as a trailblazer in various community-oriented activities with positive environmental impacts, such as seed ball making and the likes. His multifaceted contributions reflect a profound commitment to driving positive change and innovation in both professional and community contexts

Kamlesh’s journey began with a passion for reshaping urban landscapes and redefining the way people moved. Armed with a master’s degree in civil engineering and a fervent curiosity, he embarked on a career that would ultimately transform the way cities approached transportation challenges.

Kamlesh is currently working with Teague Nall & Perkins Inc., one of the leading and most reputed design firms in the state of Texas. One of Kamlesh’s most notable accomplishment that he made a research and development breakthrough that improved highway design workflow. He developed an approach to assign localized geospatial coordinate data which created new opportunities for the team to simplify integration of client data, improve coordination of 3rd party information, and design with publicly available aerial and mapping data sets stored in dissimilar geospatial formats.

Kamlesh’s dedication extended beyond his projects, as he actively engaged with the community through workshops, seminars, and mentorship programs. He inspired countless young minds to pursue careers in transportation engineering, fostering a new generation of innovators eager to tackle the world’s most pressing mobility challenges.

Today, Kamlesh continues to push the boundaries of transportation engineering, embarking on new projects that hold the promise of reshaping country’s infrastructure. His story stands as a testament to the power of innovation, determination, and a relentless pursuit of excellence in the ever-evolving landscape of transportation engineering.

At Indian Achiever’s forum, we recognize Kamlesh Khatri for his Outstanding professional achievement & Contribution towards the field of Transportation Engineering.

At SilkyKraftz, the focus is on reducing carbon footprint and promoting Indian handmade items. All leather products undergo vegetable tanning using natural and organic substances, making them environmentally friendly, non-toxic, and biodegradable. The company’s in-house artisans are meticulous in their craftsmanship, ensuring impeccable finishing and artistry.

The challenge lies in raising awareness about eco-friendly Indian products in a market dominated by non-eco-friendly and cheaper alternatives. However, the new generation of customers, conscious of the negative impact of carbon footprints, seek value-for-money and responsibly sourced products. SilkyKraftz’s commitment to offering such products and providing excellent customer service has earned the trust of these environmentally-conscious consumers.

SilkyKraftz strives to spread awareness about the significance of sustainable living, aligning with the company’s vision. The approach creates a win-win situation for the organization, artisans, customers, and society as a whole. By choosing SilkyKraftz, customers not only acquire exquisite handcrafted items but also contribute to a greener and better world for future generations.

Embarking on his odyssey within the esteemed confines of the Indian Army, Arjun’s initial career unveiled a series of achievements showcasing his mastery as a leader and strategist. His military background granted him firsthand insights into the profound effects of cutting-edge technology on supply chain systems and operational efficiency. Particularly noteworthy is his leadership in orchestrating a seamless airlift operation in the challenging terrain of the Siachen Glacier, which earned him the prestigious three-star general’s Special Service Medal. Arjun underscores how technology consistently acted as a catalyzing force in enhancing efficiency and enabling remarkable feats throughout his journey.

Arjun’s fondness for technology blossomed during his tenure as an Army lieutenant. Amidst the rigors of the Army Logistics Maintenance Company, he delved into data intricacies, recognizing their transformative potential. His visionary transformation of the inventory management system at a regional logistics depot showcased his prowess in harnessing technology for operational readiness. Spearheading real-time analysis encompassing over 200,000 troops, Arjun efficiently managed an inventory of more than 10,000 items from a multi-million-dollar procurement budget.

Recognizing technology’s pivotal role in bolstering supply chain efficiency, Arjun championed the seamless incorporation of tech-powered solutions within the Army’s logistics division. This approach equipped the division with sophisticated inventory management systems. Climbing to the rank of Major and Senior Supply Chain Manager at the Eastern Army Logistics Depot in Guwahati, India, Arjun’s initiatives, including the launch of an ERP-based order management tool, elevated delivery times and significantly curbed errors.

Transitioning from a distinguished military career, Arjun’s path led him to the corporate arena, fortified by an MBA from Washington University. He immersed himself in design and manufacturing at Apple’s Cupertino headquarters, emerging as an authority in hardware design, manufacturing, and strategic negotiations. Leading the design-to-production journey for iconic products like iPhones, iPad, AppleTV, and Mac, Arjun employed his supplier management expertise from the military to secure advantageous contracts from Chinese manufacturers. His endeavors yielded substantial cost reductions, contributing to Apple’s unparalleled profitability. His designs remain integral to Apple’s processes, standing as a testament to his adaptability and strategic acumen.

Arjun’s journey soared further as he assumed a pivotal role at Google’s Mountain View headquarters, spearheading the global supply planning process for networking hardware in the Cloud division. His collaborations across 25 countries streamlined procurement, optimized deployment, and significantly curtailed operating costs. His ongoing leadership within the Cloud division, encompassing global expansion and data center readiness, reinforces his unwavering commitment to industry transformation.

A proponent of ethical responsibility, Arjun Sharma navigates the rapid realm of technological advancement while upholding ethical principles. His steadfast dedication to ethical practices serves as a guiding beacon, resonating with emerging leaders seeking a harmonious balance between innovative ideas and ethical considerations. Arjun’s narrative transcends his individual accomplishments; it emerges as a catalyst for transformation. His journey inspires emerging leaders to embrace technology, nurture collaboration, and navigate the intricate landscape of strategy and technology with unwavering ethics. Arjun’s unshakeable belief in the transformative potential of emerging technologies kindles enthusiasm for a boundless future.

His journey is decorated with outstanding achievements that attest to his critical role in the IT solutioning functions. He is a proud recipient of prestigious accolades like IBM’s ‘Client and Partner Success Award – 2023’ and ‘Growth Award – 2023’. His profound expertise has made a striking impact on large pharmaceutical companies and industrial manufacturing industries, especially in the United States.

He has been instrumental in providing IT solutions in the fight against counterfeit drugs and in implementing AI/ML-powered predictive demand and automated replenishment capabilities. Through his adept use of AI-driven technologies, Sarkar has developed solutions that bolster cybersecurity and guarantee the authenticity and safety of medications across the globe.

Bidyut’s professional journey has taken him to diverse corners of the world, including the USA, Netherlands, Saudi Arabia, Brazil, and Australia. This breadth of multicultural experience has provided him with unique insights into global organizational challenges, further igniting his commitment to addressing critical issues.

In his role as a mentor, Bidyut Sarkar has influenced IT professionals across the globe. He has demonstrated his deep understanding of IT solutions for AI, cybersecurity, blockchain, and supply chain issues by authoring several insightful articles in prominent International Technology Journals. As a judge for the renowned Globee Award-2023, he has showcased his unwavering commitment to championing innovation and excellence in the IT industry.

His academic journey at Wichita State University, where he pursued a Master’s in Computer Science, laid the foundation for his future accomplishments. During this time, Sarthak showcased his passion for research and innovation, publishing several papers in esteemed international journals. His contributions to the IT industry were instrumental in bridging the gap between development and operations teams, optimizing cloud-based applications, and enhancing software automation through DevOps implementation.

Beyond his technical prowess, Sarthak actively engaged with various professional bodies, signifying his commitment to advancing the IT domain. His memberships in esteemed organizations like the International Society for Engineering Research and Development (ISERD), Globee Awards, and American Association of Information Technology Professionals (AAITP) not only highlighted his leadership qualities but also provided him with opportunities to contribute as a committee member, expert judge, and reviewer.

Sarthak’s dedication to nurturing talent and promoting learning was evident in his role as a Hackathon Judge for Major League Hacking and a Journal Article Reviewer for multiple esteemed publications. These involvements showcased his willingness to support and encourage innovation within the industry.

The crowning jewel of his success story is being recognized with the prestigious Tech Mahindra Bravo Award, a testament to his exceptional performance and significant contributions to the company’s success. This internal recognition within Tech Mahindra is a testament to Sarthak’s leadership qualities, outstanding results, and embodiment of the organization’s values.

Sarthak Srivastava’s journey is a true inspiration for aspiring IT professionals. Through his passion for research, commitment to professional development, and dedication to fostering growth in the industry, he has not only achieved personal success but also contributed to the advancement of IT practices globally. His story serves as a reminder that with hard work, perseverance, and a commitment to continuous learning, one can reach great heights in their chosen field.

As a student of finance, Mahesh observed firsthand the prevailing ignorance surrounding financial literacy among the general population. Recognizing the untapped potential of greater financial inclusion, he embarked on a mission to democratise finance, with a particular focus on empowering rural India. It was during this time that the seeds of Bear and Bull Investments were sown – a firm with a compelling ethos centred around uplifting the rural population and enabling their participation in the financial markets.

Armed with a deep understanding of the struggles faced by rural communities, Mahesh forged ahead with his vision. The research conducted in rural India revealed a stark reality – a significant portion of the population remained unaware of the stock market’s existence or believed it was reserved exclusively for the affluent. Fuelled by this revelation, Mahesh’s purpose to empower rural India became resolute, propelling him towards his transformative goal.

Bear and Bull Investments has been an embodiment of Mahesh’s vision – a firm that has touched the lives of millions through its multi-faceted approach:

1. Financial Literacy Programs: Mahesh recognized the importance of equipping individuals with essential financial knowledge. Extensive financial literacy programs were conducted in rural India through seminars in colleges, universities, and direct community engagement. Armed with the tools for informed decision-making and wealth creation, rural communities embraced newfound financial wisdom.
2. Social Responsibility: The commitment to corporate social responsibility was an integral part of Bear and Bull Investments’ philosophy. From food donations to clothes distribution and contributions towards children’s education in orphanages, the firm invested in the well-being of marginalized communities, fostering inclusivity and prosperity.
3. Rural Startup Support: Mahesh’s vision extended beyond education and charity. Bear and Bull Investments actively supported rural startups by assisting them with their business plans and connecting them with potential investors. This nurturing approach paved the way for rural economies to grow, leading to job creation and self-reliance.
4. Sustainable Development: Recognizing the significance of environmental conservation, Mahesh’s firm invested in green energy and sustainable development projects. Integrating environmental consciousness into investment strategies, Bear and Bull Investments demonstrated its commitment to a greener and more sustainable future for all.

The transformative work of Bear and Bull Investments received due recognition and accolades from esteemed organizations. The Startup India Recognition from the Government of India and the Ministry of Commerce commended the firm’s contribution to the startup ecosystem and economic growth. Additionally, the nomination for the National Startup Awards 2023 in the Financial Inclusion category affirmed Bear and Bull Investments’ dedication to expanding financial opportunities and fostering inclusive growth.

Mahesh’s unwavering commitment has touched the lives of over a million rural individuals. By assisting them in adopting modern agricultural practices and connecting them with relevant startups, Bear and Bull Investments has facilitated their integration into the broader economy, contributing significantly to India’s economic development.

As the firm successfully attracted clients from countries like the USA, Germany, and Australia, Mahesh’s global reach was undeniable. However, he remained steadfast in his purpose, focusing on effecting change in rural India, spreading financial literacy, and actively participating in the country’s journey towards becoming a developed nation.