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Neelam Chhiber
Co-founder and Managing Trustee - Industree Foundation, Co-founder and Managing Director - Mother Earth
Professional Background
Neelam Chhiber is a visionary leader in the field of industrial design with a mission to empower rural communities across India. With over 30 years of professional experience, Neelam has dedicated her career to bridging the gap between urban and rural economies. As the Co-Founder and Managing Trustee of Industree Foundation, she has spearheaded initiatives that enable artisans in rural areas to not only develop their crafts but also establish self-sustained enterprises right in their communities. By providing comprehensive design, technical, marketing, and management solutions, Neelam has nurtured a holistic ecosystem that fosters economic growth and social empowerment.
Education and Achievements
Neelam's educational journey paved the way for her extensive work in industrial design. She graduated from the prestigious National Institute of Design (NID), Ahmedabad, where she honed her skills in creating innovative design solutions. Further enhancing her capabilities, she pursued advanced studies at the Harvard Executive Program and the Global Social Benefit Incubator, both of which enriched her understanding of social entrepreneurship and systemic change. Additionally, Neelam completed the Art and Science of Systems Change Program at the Harvard Kennedy School, equipping her with knowledge to implement sustainable practices that foster community resilience and economic success.
Throughout her illustrious career, Neelam's contributions have been recognized through numerous awards and accolades. She was honored as the Schwab Social Entrepreneur of the Year for India in 2011 by the Schwab Foundation and the World Economic Forum for her remarkable impact in social entrepreneurship. In 2012, she received the L’Oreal Paris Femina Women Award in the Social Impact category, acknowledging her dedication to improving the lives of marginalized communities. Furthermore, Neelam was appointed as a Women Change Makers Fellow by the Womanity Foundation in 2013 and earned the FKCCI Outstanding Women Entrepreneur of the Year award in 2015, solidifying her reputation as a leading figure in social impact.
Achievements
Neelam Chhiber's ongoing mission, known as Mission Creative Million, aims to uplift one million producers by 2030. This initiative focuses on creating economic impact through stable employment opportunities, increased wages, and enhanced financial security for rural artisans. Beyond mere economic improvement, this mission also prioritizes social growth, aiming to elevate the agency and voices of women within their households and communities, while also ensuring better educational opportunities for the next generation.
Her work has led to substantial changes in the lives of countless artisans, integrating them into mainstream value chains which enables greater control and security over their economic futures. Neelam holds pivotal roles in various organizations, including being a member of the India Design Council and the World Economic Forum’s Skills Task Force in India. She serves as a board member of AIACA (All India Artisans and Craftworkers Welfare Association) and is an active participant in the working committee of Civil Society Organisations at NITI Aayog, contributing her expertise to shape impactful policies for artisans and rural communities.
Neelam’s experience and education reflect a deep commitment to social change. Her extensive involvement in social impact initiatives and her contributions to the design community make her a powerful advocate for rural artisans and a model for aspiring social entrepreneurs everywhere.