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Prerana Langa
Chief Executive Officer Aga Khan Agency for Habitat India I Founding CEO YES FOUNDATIONI Founding team ICICI FOUNDATION I Board Member I
Professional Background
Prerana Langa is a remarkable leader and innovator in the field of sustainability and climate action. She has dedicated her career to creating large-scale impact and enhancing the well-being of individuals, communities, and the planet. Her current role as the head of climate action for the Aga Khan Agency for Habitat in India showcases her commitment to developing resilient environmental infrastructure, reinforcing climate resilience, and ensuring water security amid changing environmental conditions.
With an impressive 27 years of experience, Prerana has developed a deep expertise in corporate social responsibility (CSR), philanthropy, and community development. She has successfully set up, managed, and scaled two corporate foundations for notable private sector entities, including the ICICI Group and YES BANK. This experience has granted her the unique insight required to bridge the gap between corporate interests and social responsibility, fostering meaningful partnerships across various sectors.
Throughout her career, Prerana has worked with a philanthropic non-profit organization, impacting over 1,100 villages through concerted efforts aimed at improving the well-being of individuals and the communities they inhabit. By implementing strategic climate action initiatives and advocating for social change, Prerana has established herself as a driving force in creating sustainable solutions.
In addition to her work in habitat and community development, she serves as a trustee of Dvara Holdings, a premier financial inclusion entity dedicated to policy research and investment in companies addressing market gaps. This role underscores her commitment to empowering communities through better financial accessibility and education.
A true believer in the power of collaboration and networking, Prerana has effectively forged partnerships with government entities, civil society, and the private sector, amplifying their combined efforts towards social good. Her ability to communicate and build a strong brand has allowed her to successfully lead initiatives that garner support and engage diverse audiences.
In an impressive milestone, she founded and directed the world’s largest youth movement, involving 2 million participants, demonstrating her capabilities in mobilizing resources and people for significant societal change. Her communication skills are complemented by a flair for storytelling, which she leverages to engage with audiences and convey her vision for a sustainable future.
Her dynamic leadership and unwavering dedication to social impact have not gone unnoticed. She has been recognized among the top five social impact professionals in India by the Asia Venture Philanthropy Network (AVPN) and Social Venture Partners. Furthermore, her insights into innovative leadership are featured in the book 'The Chef Executive Officer,' alongside other noteworthy leaders, including Aditya Puri and Ken Cato.
Education and Achievements
Prerana Langa’s educational background is as impressive as her professional accomplishments. She holds a Master’s in Management Studies with a specialization in Marketing from SIES College of Management Studies, which has equipped her with the essential skills required for effective leadership and strategic decision-making. Furthermore, she completed a Diploma in Corporate Social Responsibility and Sustainability at the esteemed Swedish Institute Management Program (SIMP), reinforcing her commitment to integrating sustainability into her work.
Her educational journey further includes an Executive Development Program on Non-State Players in Human Development at Harvard University’s South Asia Institute and The World Bank. This exposure to global best practices and theories has further enhanced her capacity to implement impactful initiatives in diverse contexts.
Additionally, she pursued a Bachelor of Science in Lifesciences and Biochemistry at St. Xavier's College, which has provided her with a solid scientific foundation to understand the environmental challenges facing communities today. An Executive Course in the Design of Inclusive and Climate Resilient Cities at IHS, Erasmus University Rotterdam, adds another layer to her comprehensive skill set, positioning her as a thought leader in developing sustainable urban environments.
Achievements
Prerana Langa’s contributions to society have led to numerous accolades and recognitions in recent years. Among her notable achievements is being acknowledged as one of the top five social impact professionals in India by the Asia Venture Philanthropy Network (AVPN) and Social Venture Partners. This recognition not only highlights her dedication to social change but also establishes her as a trusted leader in the sector.
Her influence and thought leadership extend beyond her immediate work; she has become an active voice on topics related to social impact and sustainability. Prerana has been featured across various media platforms, sharing her insights and strategies for fostering positive change. Her prominent presence in the discourse around social innovation reflects her commitment to raising awareness and mobilizing support for critical environmental and community issues.
Through her remarkable career journey, she has illustrated the indispensable link between business, community welfare, and sustainable development. By continually pushing boundaries and exploring creative solutions to pressing societal problems, Prerana Langa stands out as a beacon of hope and inspiration for future generations of leaders.
In summary, Prerana Langa is a multifaceted professional whose impressive career spans leadership in climate action, corporate social responsibility, and community-oriented initiatives. With extensive experience, a stellar educational background, and a track record of notable achievements, she remains dedicated to creating a sustainable world where individuals and communities can thrive. Her innovative approach to social impact combined with her unwavering commitment to bettering lives makes her an invaluable asset in her pursuit of resilience, equality, and environmental stewardship.
