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Aalaap Roy Chief Operating Officer, India On Track
A marketing and strategy professional with over 15 years of experience across various categories, including FMCG (Home Care, Personal Care, Skin Care), Alco-Bev, Music & Entertainment, OTT Video, Live Events, Media, and Publishing. His roles have spanned brand management, media and sales management, content marketing, leadership development, strategic business planning, and cross-category management on state, regional, national, and global platforms.
Akanksha Arora Creative Director, Tribe Amrapali
A visionary leader. With a background in jewelry design, manufacturing, and gemology, she has driven Amrapali Jewels' global expansion, launching online and offline platforms, and heading international trade fair operations. A perfectionist and self-motivated individual, Akanksha draws inspiration from design, art, and travel, and has transformed modern jewelry design with her original and captivating collections.
Ameer Ismail President, Lintas Live, MullenLowe Lintas Group
He has led Lintas Live (formerly LinOpinion/GolinOpinion) for over 25 years, building it into a top PR agency. He's recognized for innovative thinking, crisis management expertise, and delivering sharp solutions. Ameer has worked with top multinationals and Indian corporates, served on advisory committees, and received several awards, including the CMO Asia Award for Outstanding Contribution to Corporate Communications. He's a sought-after mentor, lecturer, and contributor to industry initiatives, and has been listed among India's top PR leaders and influencers by Reputation Today, exchange4media, and India TV Adgully.
Amin Ali Editor and writer
A seasoned writer and editor who loves breaking gourmet trends and writing about global food and travel business and experiences. He has written extensively on a variety of topics including tech, business, lifestyle and politics. He feels passionately about the food and beverage industry and constantly advocates liberal and firmly believes that India has the potential to be the culinary powerhouse of the world.
Anant Roongta Managing Director, Famous Studios
With a Master's in International Business from Aston University, UK, Anant has revolutionized the studio with innovative technologies, partnerships, and initiatives. He has introduced co-working spaces, state-of-the-art post-production facilities, and cutting-edge technologies like visual engineering and virtual production. Anant is committed to developing leadership, supporting literacy, and enabling creative solutions. He is a sought-after speaker, podcaster, and advisor, shaping the future of the audio-visual industry.
Aparna Santhanam Dermatologist, Cosmetologist, and Wellness Expert
A prominent dermatologist, cosmetologist, and wellness expert with over twenty years of experience. She has significantly contributed to Kaya Skin Clinics, India's largest chain of cosmetic dermatology clinics, as the Medical Head. Dr. Santhanam, a gold medalist from Mumbai University and diplomate of the National Board, is also a certified transformational coach. She consults for major brands like ITC, Unilever, Marico, and Cipla, and has authored three best-selling books on skin and hair care. Additionally, she hosts podcasts and actively engages in patient education and social development, working with NGOs in Mumbai for over 15 years.
Beate H.K. Mauder Kakkar Managing Director, Indiva Marketing Pvt. Ltd
A seasoned marketing expert, has driven business development in India and Asia for luxury brands like Rafael Hotels, Aman Resorts, and Taj Hotels since 1996. With an MBA from Henley College and experience spanning San Francisco, London, Hong Kong, and Beijing, Beate excels in marketing, PR, branding, and sales. She has held leadership roles in top hospitality companies, including Taj Hotels, Mandarin Oriental and Leading Hotels of the World.
Gauri Nayar Co-Founder, Twain Communications
A seasoned PR expert, Gauri has over 20 years of experience in luxury lifestyle and hospitality. After five years at a top Manhattan PR agency where her impressive client roster included iconic, global brands like Waldorf Astoria, Mandarin Oriental, and MGM Grand, she returned to India as Head of Communications for The Oberoi, Mumbai. She co-founded Twain Communications in 2014 and for a decade, has been working with some of India’s finest lifestyle and luxury brands.
Karishma Sakhrani MasterChef India Finalist, Consulting Chef & Hospitality Consultant
Shedding layers of her former role at Condé Nast, Karishma dove straight into the world of flavors by participating in MasterChef India Season 4. As a finalist on the show, she carved a niche for herself as the champion of healthy eating and cooking – owing to her many global travels. Influenced by flavors from around the world, her dishes radiate taste, style, and healthfulness. Alongside her role as a culinary director at Acme Hospitality, which she also runs, Karishma consulta as a chef with many restaurants, as well as creates engaging content on Instagram. To her, life is all about seeking the right balance – and this resonates in everything she does!
Kavita Rajwade Co-Founder, IVM Podcasts
Her key role at the network includes heading the content, marketing and communications vertical. Prior to this, Rajwade has been credited with creating breakthrough content assets including spearheading IP’s and experiential innovations in her two decade long career. She has led marketing and monetisation of assets for marquee brands and her prominent stints include Sony Music, Only Much Louder, News18 and Radio Mid-day to name a few. Rajwade has been instrumental in shaping IVM Podcasts to be India's largest podcasting network with an eclectic slate of content hosted by some of the smartest business personalities. With over 200 shows, IVM Podcasts is the single largest creator of podcasting content in India.
Khushnaz Turner Infuencer
Khushnaz Ashdin Turner, also known as Kat Diaries, is a multi-talented entrepreneur, influencer, and mom of two. She has gained popularity as a content creator on Instagram, where her visually stunning feed and engaging IGTV videos captivate a large following. Her fashion shoots beautifully showcase her personality and style, inspiring many of her followers.
Manish Mehrotra Culinary Director, Indian Accent
Celebrated and critically acclaimed Chef Manish Mehrotra is the culinary director for IndianAccent restaurants. He pioneered inventive Indian cuisine. He was awarded the Best Chef in India by American Express and has also been called the most exciting modern Indian chef in the world today.
Mangalam Maloo CFA, Anchor & Deputy Editor at CNBC-TV18; 40 Under 40 Journalists of India; Consumer Sector Expert
Financial journalist and TV host at CNBC-TV18, tracking consumer and market trends. With a background in Mass Media, CFA, and MBA, he tells engaging business stories. Hosts shows like Chartbusters and Half Time Report, and won awards for Mad About Markets. Recognized as one of Exchange4Media's English Journalism 40 under 40 in 2022. Passionate about music, fitness, and sneakers.
Mayank Lalpuria Senior Vice President at The Phoenix Mills Ltd
He commands over 14 years of remarkable legacy with the company, rising to the pinnacle of marketing leadership for multiple Phoenix malls. His innovative strategies attract over 1.5 million monthly visitors, demonstrating his belief in the power of collaboration. Mayank's leadership fosters strong brand partnerships, fueling growth and thriving business ecosystems. He orchestrates over 500 events annually, from family experiences to music showcases, showcasing his creative prowess and ability to craft unforgettable experiences. His journey is a testament to dedication, innovation, and visionary success.
Nagsri Prasad Sashidhar Founder, Creating Special Memories
A travel industry icon with 26 years of experience, founded Creating Special Memories in 2019. She previously led bespoke curating experiences at Thomas Cook and Mercury Travels for 13 years each. Having traveled to 45+ countries and over 2000 cities, Nagsri shares her expertise through training and speaking engagements, including appearances on BBC and in travel publications.
Queenie Singh Founder, BiE and Jewels by Queenie
A former Miss India, Mathematics Graduate, makeover columnist, and holistic wellness practitioner, Queenie Singh is today synonymous with her brand, Jewels By Queenie. Never one to compromise on originality of design, she has clients spanning Middle Eastern royal women right up to prominent personalities like Hilary Clinton, the Queen of Morocco, Paris Hilton, Naomi Campbell, and Bollywood stars. 2 Years ago, Queenie Singh entered the clean skincare market with BiE.
Rupali Dean Catalyst, Food & Travel Columnist
Awarded as the 'Best food writer in the country' by the Indian culinary forum, WACS and the ministry of Tourism, Rupali Dean writes on food and travel. Her passion and work takes her on various travels across the world and she is a trained hospitality professional.
Sarayu Hegde Brand Consultant & Style Curator
Sarayu Hegde, a fashion enthusiast and entrepreneur with over 10 years of experience, is a renowned fashion and lifestyle consultant based in Bangalore. She has successfully introduced numerous emerging designers to the city and collaborated with prominent industry names. Sarayu also consults for brands expanding into the South Indian market, leveraging her expertise to drive their success.
Shouger Merchant Doshi Founder, Rainmaker Consults
She is a driving force behind a leading PR & Marketing firm Rainmaker Consults. Also the acclaimed author of 'Power of Make Believe' (Penguin India). Additionally, co-founded Pinwheel Project, a pioneering social buying platform catering to the parenting community.
Simone Arora Creative Director, D’Decor Home Fabrics & Founder, Designer and Curator, SIMONE
Simone Arora, a dynamic force in the home décor industry, continues to play an integral role at D’Decor Home Fabrics as the Brand’s Creative Director. With 32 years of experience, she's shaped D'Decor's aesthetic and strategy, earning the brand a leading reputation. In addition to her pivotal role at D’Decor, Simone launched her independent venture, SIMONE Naturally Inspired in 2014. Simone has earned accolades for its exceptional retail environment, winning the Best Retail Experience award. It has also been featured in the Luxe Book’s Top 100 List for three consecutive years, underscoring Simone’s continued influence and innovation in the home décor industry. Simone's dedication to creativity, excellence, and growth makes her a prominent influence in the home décor industry."
Sunalika Oberoi Sinha Independent Photographer
Sunalika is an international award winning photographer, a former model and graphics & space designer. As a photographer she focuses on architecture, ‘joie de Vivre’ and portraiture. Sunalika has a Masters in Design from Nation Institute of Design.
Vanita Bhandari Managing Director, DBS Business Centers & Founder, Pegara
Vanita Bhandari, a fashion entrepreneur, revived her mother's embroidery business and created Pegara, a brand showcasing Parsi hand embroidery. With a mission to create timeless, handworked garments, Pegara blends tradition with modern twists. Vanita boasts an impressive collection of over 200 antique Gara sari borders and fully embroidered Gara sarees, inspiring a coffee table book, 'Forever Gara.' She plans to establish a museum to preserve this legacy. Additionally, Vanita is the owner and Managing Director of DBS Business Centers, with 30+ years of experience in serviced office spaces across India's metro cities.
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