Key skills and expertise

Bringing over ten years of experience, the expert specializes in social and economic inclusion, participatory governance, and urban development. Key skills include research design, project management, and capacity building, with a focus on informal livelihoods and housing rights. Career highlights include leading significant projects such as the ModSkool initiative and collaborating with organizations like IIED and WIEGO. Previously held roles such as Senior Associate at the Indian Institute for Human Settlements have involved developing frameworks for economic transformation and teaching at the School of Planning and Architecture, Delhi.

Project experience and donor exposure

Worked across diverse projects involving collaboration with the International Institute for Environment and Development (IIED) on initiatives examining informal rental housing and social protection during the COVID-19 pandemic. This work involved creating advocacy tools and archives, focusing on governance and housing rights. The projects were regional, conducted in cities like Jaipur and Delhi, India. Additionally, the expert engaged with Women in Informal Employment: Globalizing and Organizing (WIEGO) on research related to the socio-spatial implications of home-based work for women in the Global South.

Sectors and geographic focus

The expert has worked across key sectors such as civil society and NGOs, gender, labor market and employment, social and urban development, and advocacy. Responsibilities have included research design, project management, and teaching. The expert's interdisciplinary knowledge spans informal livelihoods, housing rights, and participatory governance. Extensive experience in India includes deep familiarity with local governance and cultural dynamics in cities like Delhi, Jaipur, and Patna, as well as regional development initiatives in Rajasthan and Odisha. Work in these areas involves collaboration with local unions and government bodies, contributing to policy advocacy and capacity building.

Languages and education

With a background in languages, the expert is fluent in English, a UN official language, and has used it extensively in professional settings, including international collaborations and research dissemination. Additionally, the expert is proficient in Hindi and Telugu, facilitating communication with local stakeholders and communities in India. The educational background includes pursuing a Master of Science in Building and Urban Design in Development at the Development Planning Unit, University College London, United Kingdom, with expected completion in September 2024. The expert holds a Bachelor of Architecture from the School of Planning and Architecture, Delhi, India, completed in May 2015, focusing on urban design, development, and architecture.