Leadership in Focus: Personalities to Watch in 2025 celebrates trailblazers redefining leadership, fostering global impact, and championing innovation across diverse fields.
1. Anjali Khatri
Anjali Khatri is the Founder of Irenic International Education Services, a global leader in overseas education. With over 11 years of experience, she has guided thousands of students in achieving their dreams of studying abroad. Her exceptional contributions have earned her accolades as a Young Inspiring Leader in India, Singapore, and the United Kingdom—a reflection of her influence and commitment on an international scale.
Anjali is a passionate induvial for empowering women through education and entrepreneurship, using mentorship as a tool to inspire and uplift others. Her journey stands as a testament to resilience and success, serving as a beacon of motivation for women aspiring to make their mark in business and education globally.
2. Dr. B. Ravindra Prasad
Dr. B. Ravindra Prasad, the Asia Director of Global Rare Metal Traders, is a visionary leader in the rare metals industry. With extensive expertise in resource management and international trade, he has been instrumental in bridging Asia’s vast resource potential with global markets. Known for his strategic acumen and innovative approaches, Dr. Prasad fosters sustainable practices in metal trading, ensuring economic growth and environmental responsibility. His leadership has strengthened the company’s presence in Asia, driving excellence in rare metal procurement, supply chain management, and fostering partnerships that contribute to global industrial progress. www.globalraremetaltrader.com
3. Dr. Balakrishna S. Maddodi: A Beacon of Excellence and Service
Dr. Balakrishna S. Maddodi, Associate Professor at Manipal Institute of Technology (MIT), MAHE, is a trailblazer in academia and community service. With leadership roles like Assistant Director and NSS Program Officer, he has inspired students and driven impactful initiatives. A member of SEIAA/SEAC and Rotary International, he champions environmental sustainability and societal well-being.
Recipient of honors like the Udupi Rajyotsava and Aryabhatta International Awards, Dr. Maddodi is a dedicated blood donor, social volunteer, and advocate for humanitarian causes. Under his guidance, MIT’s NSS Unit earned a national award in 2024, cementing his legacy of service and excellence.
Dr. C. M. Rao is a visionary leader, philanthropist, and the Chairman & Managing Director of Ananda’s Seva Sadana Group. Renowned for his contributions to healthcare, education, and sustainable development, he established Geriatric Home and Rehabilitation (GHR) in 2019 to address critical healthcare needs. Dr. Rao’s initiatives balance commercial success with profound social impact, earning him prestigious accolades, including the Indian Global Icon Award, the APJ Abdul Kalam Award & Bharat Gaurav Ratan award. His dedication to social welfare, ethical leadership, and inclusive growth continues to inspire transformative change in society.
5. Dr. Lakshmi Lavanya Alapati
Dr. Lakshmi Lavanya Alapati is a distinguished endocrinologist with American Board certifications in Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Metabolism. Serving as Managing Director of the American Institute of Diabetes and Endocrinology in Hyderabad, India, she has extensive experience in clinical practice, education, and research. With a fellowship from the University of Iowa and residency at Cornell University, her career spans roles in leading hospitals in the USA and India. She has led groundbreaking research in Thyroid cancer, Obesity and GLP-1 agonists and led the Diabetes reversal programs. She authored notable publications, and earned prestigious fellowships, including FACP and FACE. Her expertise and contributions to endocrinology have solidified her reputation as a leader in the field.
6. Dr. Nirmal Gajjar
Based in Ahmedabad, Apex Engineers has been a leading manufacturer and exporter of plastic extrusion machines since 1988. Located at Plot No. 1716, Phase 3, GIDC, Vatva, the company, under the guidance of proprietor Dr. Nirmal Gajjar, has expanded its presence to over 30 countries, including the USA, UK, and Russia.
Apex Engineers specializes in extrusion machines and spares for plastic pipes, profiles, and wire coating, catering to industries like medical, agriculture, and automotive. In 2023, it received the UK’s Global Business Achievers’ Award for eco-friendly innovation. Renowned for exceptional customer service, Apex holds a 5-star Google rating. https://www.apexengineers.com/pages/company-profile
7. Dr. Shailendra Pandya
Dr. Shailendra Pandya, Director of Gayatri Seva Sansthan, is a computer science engineer turned child rights advocate with over a decade of social work experience. Committed to building a child-friendly India, he has rescued over 1,000 children from child labor and leads a team of 500+ young social workers.
As a member of Rajasthan’s State Commission for Protection of Child Rights, Dr. Pandya combines grassroots impact with policy advocacy. Recognized with numerous awards, he envisions a future free of child marriage and labor, focusing this year on reaching the unreached, ensuring every child’s right to safety and opportunity.
8. Dr. Surabhi Dhanwala & Sachin Dhanwala
Dr. Surabhi Dhanwala, an accomplished physiotherapist and naturopathist with over 20 years of experience, and Mr. Sachin Dhanwala, a pioneer in Health Numerology, have transformed countless lives through holistic healthcare. Combining ancient techniques like Nadi Parikshan with modern wellness practices, they bring a unique approach to diagnosing and healing. Their impactful initiatives, including health camps that have benefitted over 100,000 individuals, reflect their unwavering commitment to community welfare and innovative healthcare solutions, earning them national accolades like the Bharat Vibhushan Puraskar.
9. Dr. Suhas Shah
Dr. Suhas Shah, an orthopedic surgeon with 34+ years of expertise, specializes in Ilizarov surgery and diabetic foot treatment. Trained under renowned mentors, including Prof. Dror Paley and pioneers from Italy, he has performed over 1,400 surgeries across Maharashtra. Ashwini Hospital, established in 1999 by Dr. Suhas Shah and Dr. Monika Shah, offers comprehensive orthopedic care, focusing on treating complex injuries and restoring patients’ lifestyles. The hospital’s team delivers unparalleled patient care, ensuring quality healthcare to help individuals lead productive lives.
10. Foram Varnamia
Foram Varnamia, the Co-Founder and Chief Marketing Officer of 4M’s Kitchen, exemplifies visionary leadership and strategic excellence. A gold medalist in javelin and shotput, she holds a Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality and showcased exceptional organizational acumen managing logistics for the National Budding Chef Competition . Following two years of research and development, she spearheaded the evolution of 4M’s Kitchen from a cloud kitchen into a thriving quick-service restaurant. With experience at Marriott and expertise in digital marketing, Foram is shaping the future of the food industry.
11. Santosh Gosai
In 2024, 3R achieved remarkable milestones by supplying and installing expansion and seismic joints at eight prominent government hospital projects in Uttar Pradesh under UPPWD and at PGIEMR, Chandigarh, under CPWD. Completing all projects on or ahead of schedule, 3R reinforced its reputation for reliability. With a skilled workforce and a pan-India presence, the company continues to set industry benchmarks under the visionary leadership of CEO Director Santosh Gosai. Known for being Reliable, Robust, and Resilient, 3R is a trusted name in the sector. Visit us at www.3rJointnseal.org. Email: sgosai@3rjointnseal.org
12. SLP Sanjay Kumar
SLP Sanjay Kumar, a renowned Speech-Language Pathologist and Audiologist, specializes in the non-surgical treatment of voice disorders. An alumnus of AIIMS New Delhi and AIISH Mysore, he is the founder of the acclaimed Sanjay Speech Hearing and Rehabilitation Center in Bangalore.
The center is among India’s top facilities for speech and hearing care, emphasizing evidence-based practices and tele-rehabilitation. Globally recognized for its excellence in managing voice disorders, the center stands as a beacon of hope for individuals seeking expert care, reflecting Sanjay Kumar’s dedication to improving lives through advanced, non-invasive therapies.
He is spreading hope worldwide through success stories shared on his YouTube channel, featuring pre- and post-voice therapy. videos: https://www.youtube.com/SLPSanjayKumar
13. Utsav Khakhkhar
The beauty, personal care, and pharmaceutical industries are evolving rapidly, driven by visionary leaders like Utsav Khakhkhar. As CEO of Lelys, Utsav champions gender-neutral beauty, creating innovative product lines that reflect scientific excellence and meet modern customer needs.
In his role as COO of UBIK Solutions, a leader in pharmaceuticals, he drives advancements in product development, merging cutting-edge science with a customer-centric focus. Beyond industry innovation, Utsav nurtures a culture of continuous learning, encouraging individuals to enhance their skills, tackle challenges, and thrive in their professional journeys, redefining standards of excellence and leadership.URL for backlink – https://lelys.in/
