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Neelam Jain

Creating Inclusive Jobs for Transgender Persons. Forbes 30 under 30 2021.

Professional Background

Neelam Jain is a visionary leader dedicated to creating change through empowerment and inclusion. With a foundational experience as a financial analyst at Goldman Sachs, she develops keen insights into economic strategies and business operations. During her two-year tenure, she honed the analytical skills necessary for effective leadership, particularly in the financial sector. Her transition from a corporate environment to social entrepreneurship demonstrates her commitment to social impact and her belief in the power of individuals to create positive change.

In 2016, Neelam founded PeriFerry, a groundbreaking organization dedicated to supporting transgender individuals in India. With this bold move, she aimed to create meaningful employment opportunities for the marginalized trans community, fostering an inclusive and accepting work culture. Under her leadership, PeriFerry has established a self-sustaining model that addresses unemployment and poverty among transgender persons. The organization serves as a bridge between credible talent and companies looking to diversify their workforce, actively promoting acceptance and empathy within their operational frameworks.

Education and Achievements

Neelam Jain pursued her Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) with a focus on Marketing Management at Stella Maris College, where she developed a strong foundation in business principles and marketing strategies. Her involvement with the Stella Maris College community, including her role as Vice President of the Students' Union and her mentoring position at the Rotaract Club, reflects her leadership skills and commitment to student empowerment early in her career.

Her post-college career began with a significant internship at Hindustan Unilever Limited, where she gained experience in one of the leading consumer goods companies globally. This diverse educational and professional background equipped Neelam with the skills necessary to lead initiatives at PeriFerry successfully, where her focus remains on creating sustainable livelihoods for the LGBTQI+ community.

Notable Achievements

Neelam Jain's journey is marked by noteworthy achievements in advocacy and leadership. She is a Lead Like A Girl Fellow at Shenomics, an opportunity that recognizes her capabilities and determination as a female leader making a difference in society. Neelam's efforts at PeriFerry have led to several collaborations and partnerships with various organizations to enhance employment opportunities for transgender individuals.

Moreover, she has been instrumental in designing and implementing inclusive hiring programs and trans skilling initiatives. These programs aim to empower trans individuals not only through job placement but also through the necessary skills and training that promote long-term sustainability and independence.

Neelam's work has gained recognition, inspiring others to understand the importance of creating inclusive workplaces. By connecting organizations with talented trans individuals, she is driving change at the grassroots level, ensuring that the voices of the trans community are marked, heard, and valued.

Community Impact

PeriFerry aims to impact India’s trans population of approximately one crore, effectively advocating for sustainable and inclusive livelihoods. Through a dedicated team, Neelam works tirelessly to facilitate another’s path to success—providing crucial support to those in need. The organization is more than just a job placement agency; it is a transformational movement toward compassion, understanding, and economic empowerment.

Neelam has also championed the importance of mental wellness within the LGBTQI+ community, promoting initiatives that address the complex psychological aspects of employment and inclusion. PeriFerry’s commitment goes beyond job recruitment—it's about changing mindsets and fostering a culture where everyone is valued irrespective of their gender identity.

Invitation

Neelam warmly invites individuals and organizations nationwide to engage with PeriFerry if they are looking for job opportunities for trans persons, recruiting diverse talent, or collaborating on training programs related to trans inclusion and development. Whether you are a job seeker or an organization looking to make a positive impact, Neelam is keen to work together to advance the inclusion agenda in India.

In her own words, “I see a world of endless possibilities and truly believe that we can do well and do good at the same time.” This ethos guides everything Neelam does at PeriFerry. Reach out by contacting [email protected] to explore partnership opportunities, support initiatives within the LGBTQI+ community, or simply to learn more about how we can create a more inclusive tomorrow together.

Related Questions

How did Neelam Jain transition from a financial analyst at Goldman Sachs to founding PeriFerry?
What inspired Neelam Jain to focus on empowering the transgender community through employment?
How does PeriFerry ensure sustainable livelihoods for the trans population in India?
What challenges has Neelam Jain faced in her work towards promoting inclusion for the LGBTQI+ community?
What kind of training programs does Neelam Jain envision for skill development in the transgender community?
Neelam Jain
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Location

Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India