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Sonkee Shah
Founder & CEO, ARCH Development Foundation, President, WICCI CSR Council for Gujarat State, Certified Social Auditor and Consultant
Professional Background
Sonkee Shah is a dedicated and impactful professional with over 20 years of experience in the Social Development Sector, where he has honed his expertise in designing, executing, and monitoring Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programs. His career journey has seen him engage with a diverse mix of stakeholders, including NGOs, government entities, and corporate organizations, primarily within the power sector, international port business, and infrastructure development. Sonkee’s extensive experience equips him with a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities present in social development.
Throughout his professional life, Sonkee has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to improving the lives of marginalized communities. He possesses a profound knowledge of Development and CSR projects, with a specialty in strategic planning and implementation of self-sustaining programs at the grassroots level. Adopting a scientific and research-based approach, Sonkee is skilled in evolving models that are not only integrated but also designed holistically, complete with clear success indicators to measure outcomes effectively.
In addition to his impressive fieldwork, Sonkee holds the qualification of a Certified Social Auditor, enabling him to conduct comprehensive impact assessments and evaluations of Development and CSR initiatives. This certification underscores his credentials in ensuring that programs achieve their intended social benefits while adhering to best practices and standards. His passion drives him toward work that prioritizes the welfare of particularly vulnerable groups, including women and children, showcasing his dedication to fostering inclusive growth and sustainability within communities.
Education and Achievements
Sonkee Shah’s educational foundation is robust and multifaceted. He pursued a Post Graduation in Agricultural and Extension Education Services at the University of Rajasthan, which provided him with a solid grounding in agricultural practices and community outreach methodologies. This education was complemented by a Post Graduate Diploma in NGO Management from the Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India, where he gained insights into the operational and strategic aspects of managing non-profit organizations effectively.
Further laying the groundwork for his career in social work, Sonkee earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Social Work from IMGVS Niket, Pilani. This comprehensive academic training has not only shaped his understanding of social dynamics but also equipped him with the skills necessary to implement impactful programs and interventions.
Sonkee’s significant contributions to the social sector are reflected in his roles across various esteemed organizations. As the Founder and CEO of ARCH Foundation, he has been at the forefront of leading initiatives that drive meaningful changes in society. His previous experience as a consultant in CSR for various organizations highlights his expertise in developing strategies that align corporate objectives with social responsibilities. His roles at leading companies like Larsen & Toubro Power and various capacities across the Government of Gujarat demonstrate his versatility and capacity to manage projects that cater to diverse community needs.
Achievements
- Founder & CEO of ARCH Foundation: In this role, Sonkee has been instrumental in addressing social issues and empowering communities through innovative CSR initiatives focused on sustainable development.
- Certification as a Social Auditor: This credential allows Sonkee to carry out thorough assessments and evaluations, ensuring that CSR programs effectively meet their goals and deliver measurable outcomes.
- Diverse Leadership Roles: His previous positions as Project Manager at Suzlon Foundation and with organizations such as Valsad Raktdan Kendra and Francois Xavier Bagnoud highlight his ability to lead critical projects aimed at enhancing social welfare, particularly in health and women's empowerment.
- Strategy Development: Sonkee's work often involves developing and customizing strategic plans that accommodate the specific needs and dynamics of communities, making him an asset in the social development sector.
- Commitment to Gender and Health Initiatives: Having worked extensively in HIV/AIDS programs and women's studies, Sonkee has demonstrated a strong commitment to health and gender equality, making substantial impacts in these vital areas of social development.
Sonkee’s career trajectory emphasizes his passion for promoting sustainability and advocating for inclusive growth. His holistic approach towards social development, coupled with a firm belief in the transformative power of education and community engagement, makes him a prominent figure in his field. Throughout his extensive career, Sonkee Shah has established himself as a well-rounded professional, inspiring change and fostering development at various levels within society.
