Global IndianstoryDr Tony Dhillon: The British-Indian doctor leading the pioneering trial of bowel cancer vaccine

Dr Tony Dhillon: The British-Indian doctor leading the pioneering trial of bowel cancer vaccine

Compiled by: Charu Thakur

(February 20, 2024) When his grandfather arrived in the UK in the 1950s from a small village in Jalandhar district, little did he know that his grandson would be leading the first international trial of a landmark vaccine to fight bowel cancer. Dr Tony Dhillon, a consultant medical oncologist at Royal Surrey NHS Hospital Trust, made headlines recently as the head of a global trial of a pre-surgery vaccine aimed at treating early-stage bowel cancer.

The man behind the trial concept, Dr Dhillon has collaborated with Professor Tim Price in Australia over the past four years to formulate and refine the vaccine.

Dr Tony Dhillon

“This is the first treatment vaccine in any gastrointestinal cancer and we have high hopes that it will be very successful. We think that for a lot of patients, the cancer will have gone completely after this treatment,” Dr Dhillon said in a statement, adding, “This is the first treatment vaccine in any gastrointestinal cancer and we have high hopes that it will be very successful. We think that for a lot of patients, the cancer will have gone completely after this treatment.”

The recently announced trial will be conducted by the Cancer Research UK Southampton Clinical Trial Units at the University of Southampton, in partnership with the Royal Surrey NHS Foundation Trust and Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Adelaide, Australia. Designed by Imugene, the second phase of trials will see 44 patients enrolling in an 18-month-long study across 10 sites – six in Australia and four in the UK. “This vaccine is not for all patients with bowel cancer, rather 15% of the total population of patients. There is a sub-type of cancer that this vaccine will only work on,” explained Dr Dhillon.

It was a few years ago that Dr Dhillon received £500,000 to bring his clinical trial to patients in Australia as immunotherapy is seen as a new way to treat cancer. It works by teaching the body’s immune system to find and fight tumours on its own. “Harnessing the immune system to tackle cancer is one of the most exciting areas in cancer research at the moment. Ultimately the findings of this research should help cancer patients and potentially change the way that bowel cancer is treated in this particular sub-group of patients,” he said in a 2020 interview.

Three doses of vaccine will be given to patients two weeks apart before the surgery to help their immune system fight the cancer. This might mean that the surgery they need is not as severe. “We reckon when patients go to operation there won’t be much cancer left, and with some people, it might go completely. We need to do the trials to prove that, and that is what we are about to start,” he added.

Dr Tony Dhillon | Global Indian

Born in Maidenhead, Dr Dhillon grew up in a Punjabi family that migrated to the UK in the early 50s. It was his paternal grandfather who moved to the UK then to work in the Brylcreem factory. He was joined by his son in the 60s. It was in 1967 that Dr Dhillon’s mother moved to the UK from Bigla in Jalandhar to marry his father, and the two of them worked in factories. “My parents were not formally educated and probably don’t know what I do for a job,” he added. But they wanted their son to study and make a name for himself. After going to UCL for medical school, he did his Ph.D. at Imperial College London which was followed by post-graduate work at Oxford.

He later started working as a medical oncologist, where he specialised in rare cancers such as GIST (gastrointestinal stromal tumour) and NET (neuroendocrine tumour) as the drugs are expensive and underlying biology is not understood. Now he is the chief investigator in a vaccine trial which could be a big step forward in treating bowel cancer.

“I feel proud to do international level research which could impact hundreds of thousands of people. It shows how much of a meritocracy the UK is – for someone who is a second-generation Punjabi from a working-class family to reach this level is fantastic,” he said.

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Published on 20, Feb 2024

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A Microscope in Every Pocket: Dr. Manu Prakash’s vision for frugal science

(December 6, 2024) In the remote Amazon rainforest, a researcher examines a moth's wings through a microscope, uncovering colours that shift like a kaleidoscope. Thousands of miles away in Hyderabad, a ninth-grader uses the same tool to study his cheek cells. This isn't an ordinary microscope but a Foldscope — a paper-based device costing less than $1 that works like professional equipment. Created by Dr. Manu Prakash, this invention represents a groundbreaking shift in science and medicine, led by the Indian-born Stanford professor. Dr. Prakash’s journey of creating affordable, precise tools is as unique as the Foldscope itself. Born in Mawana, a small town in Uttar Pradesh known for sugar production, he grew up in a home that encouraged curiosity. From his childhood experiments in India to running an innovative lab at Stanford, Prakash has always followed his intuition, which he says drives much of his work. [caption id="attachment_61260" align="aligncenter" width="742"] Dr Manu Prakash[/caption] A Question Sparks a Movement Dr Manu's breakthrough began with a question: “What is the best microscope you can build for under $1 in parts?” The Foldscope was his answer — a tool born of necessity and brilliance. Folded like origami from paper, the Foldscope combines

ugh began with a question: “What is the best microscope you can build for under $1 in parts?” The Foldscope was his answer — a tool born of necessity and brilliance. Folded like origami from paper, the Foldscope combines simplicity with high functionality, offering magnification up to 2,000 times. "The inspiration came from field stations," recalls Dr Manu, "where bulky, broken microscopes were the norm, if they existed at all".

Since its invention, the Foldscope has reached millions, serving students, researchers, and medical workers across 135 countries. The tool's applications range from diagnosing diseases like malaria to studying agricultural pests. Its low cost and easy accessibility reflect Dr Manu's idea of "frugal science" — a concept that rethinks traditional approaches to innovation.

The Foundation of Curiosity

Growing up in Mawana, Dr Manu's childhood was full of exploration. Encouraged by his mother, a political science professor, he and his brother turned their home into a makeshift lab, building rockets and dissecting animal specimens. At seven, Manu’s passion for science manifested when he attempted to build a makeshift microscope using cardboard tubes from shuttlecock holders and lenses from his brother’s glasses. Though basic and initially unsuccessful, it sparked his lifelong interest in creating tools with limited resources. "This informal, curiosity-driven learning time fueled my love of science," he said.

His love for learning led him to IIT Kanpur where he pursued computer science but found himself drawn to hands-on experimentation. He spent much of his time in the robotics lab, designing projects like an omnidirectional walking spider-robot and creating programs that mimicked the drawing style of children. His passion for building and tinkering led him to Massachusetts Institute of Technology, which he describes as a haven for inventors. “There was this idea of freedom—no one tells you what to do, and you can explore whatever you want,” the Global Indian recalls. It was at MIT that Prakash explored groundbreaking concepts, including a computer powered by microfluidic bubbles.

A turning point came during a visit to a rural clinic in India in 2010. A photograph of Mahatma Gandhi using a microscope struck a chord. The image highlighted the importance of accessible science in difficult times and inspired Manu Prakash to dedicate his career to creating tools that anyone could use to explore and solve problems. This led him to frugal science, which is about creating affordable, simple, and effective scientific tools to make science accessible to everyone, especially in resource-limited settings. It focuses on innovative designs that solve problems at a fraction of traditional costs.

Reinventing the Everyday

The Assistant Professor at Stanford runs a lab at the university which is a hive of creativity, where students and researchers work on projects that challenge the status quo of scientific tools. “We don’t know whether something we are working on will ever be useful,” Prakash admits, “but we think there is something there.”

This approach gave birth to Paperfuge, a centrifuge inspired by an ancient toy — the whirligig. By threading a string through a paper disc and pulling it to spin, the Paperfuge reaches speeds of 125,000 RPM, enough to separate plasma from blood in under two minutes. “The idea of frugal science is not about hacking something together quickly,” explains Prakash. “For each of our tools, there are 10-20 pages of math involved”.

The Paperfuge costs just 20 cents but performs on par with lab centrifuges worth $10,000, demonstrating that simplicity and affordability can go hand in hand with sophistication.

A World Transformed

The Foldscope and Paperfuge are just the start of Manu Prakash’s mission to make science accessible to all. His lab has created tools like a mosquito chip that helps detect diseases and a smartphone attachment for diagnosing oral cancer. These inventions, along with others like a method to identify mosquitoes by their wingbeats, follow a simple principle: making scientific tools affordable and available to everyone who needs them, especially in underserved areas.

“Frugal science is the difference between 1% of the population or billions of people having access to a solution,” says Prakash. This vision has driven the global impact of his creations. Millions of Foldscopes have been distributed worldwide, used not just in classrooms and clinics but also for applications like identifying fake medicines, detecting bacteria in water, and studying biodiversity. By breaking barriers to access, Prakash’s tools are changing lives across continents.

Recognition abroad

Dr Manu's journey in frugal science hasn’t just changed lives — it’s turned heads. Dubbed a “genius” by the MacArthur Fellowship, he earned the prestigious award for redefining how science can be done on a budget. His Foldscope — a $1 paper microscope — made waves, winning the Golden Goose Award for transforming a simple idea into a global game-changer. The National Institutes of Health also took notice, honouring him with the Director’s New Innovator Award for his revolutionary low-cost tools. Each recognition underscores a single, powerful idea: science should be for everyone, everywhere.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h8cF5QPPmWU

Indian Minds Driving Innovation in the US

Dr Manu Prakash is part of a thriving Indian community at Stanford and across the United States, where Indian scientists, engineers, and entrepreneurs are making significant contributions. Universities like Stanford bring together talented minds, including many from India, who excel in fields like artificial intelligence and biotechnology. These scholars often draw on their experiences in resource-limited environments, leading to innovative solutions focused on accessibility.

“Growing up with limited resources in India shaped my approach to science,” Prakash says, highlighting how his background inspires his work in frugal innovation. His story shows how the Indian diaspora connects cultures and ideas, driving impactful change globally.

Vision Ahead

Dr. Manu's work is about more than solving problems—it’s about sparking curiosity. He dreams of a world where every child has a microscope in their pocket, inspiring a new generation of scientists free from traditional barriers. “Lack of access creates barriers in people’s minds,” he says, and his mission is to break those barriers.

From a curious boy in Mawana to a global advocate for frugal science, Manu Prakash’s journey shows how simple tools can drive big change. His story proves that science isn’t just about knowledge—it’s a gift to humanity.

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Jonas Masetti: Italian-Brazilian spiritual guru bringing Vedanta to Brazil

(December 4, 2024) Born in Rio de Janeiro to parents of Italian and indigenous Brazilian descent, Jonas Masetti grew up with a rich multicultural heritage. His family’s modest roots in São Paulo and the Minas Gerais region instilled in him a deep connection to Brazilian traditions. However, his life took an extraordinary turn when he encountered Indian philosophy during his engineering career. What began as a search for deeper meaning evolved into a commitment to sharing Vedanta, a profound tradition of self-knowledge and spirituality, with the world. Jonas’s work has earned global recognition, including from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In 2021, Modi mentioned Jonas in his widely followed Mann Ki Baat program, commending his efforts in popularizing the Bhagavad Gita and Vedanta among Brazilians and called him the ambassador of Vedic culture. Jonas recently met the Indian Prime Minister during the latter’s recent visit to Rio de Janeiro. On this occasion, Jonas and his team presented a captivating Sanskrit rendition of the Ramayana. Later the PM took to twitter, once again turning the world’s attention on Jonas. Vedanta - a timeless philosophy “My understanding is that Vedic tradition has so many tools for the well-being of humanity,” believes the

/i>. Later the PM took to twitter, once again turning the world’s attention on Jonas.

Vedanta - a timeless philosophy

“My understanding is that Vedic tradition has so many tools for the well-being of humanity,” believes the Italian-Brazilian guru of Vedanta.

Vedanta is one of the schools of Indian philosophy, rooted in the teachings of the Vedas, which are ancient sacred scriptures of India. The word ‘Vedanta’ literally means "the end of the Vedas, signifying both the culmination of Vedic thought and the philosophical insights derived from the later part of the Vedas, particularly the Upanishads. Vedanta explores deep questions about the nature of reality, the self, and the ultimate purpose of life.

It offers multiple paths to self-realization, allowing individuals to align with their temperament and abilities. The paths are Jnana Yoga (path of knowledge), Bhakti Yoga (path of devotion), Karma Yoga (path of action) and Raja Yoga (path of meditation).

“When I chose Vedanta, I saw it as a means of knowledge and a tool for knowing myself. In the course, I got to learn about Indian culture and temples. I realised I belonged to that. My students are from all the religions,” remarked Jonas in an interview highlighting how Vedanta transcends religious boundaries. “You don’t have to be a Hindu to practice such things. When you go to an Ayurveda doctor, he doesn’t ask about your religion before treating you. Same way, the Vedanta teacher is not asked where you belong.”

[caption id="attachment_61154" align="aligncenter" width="645"] Indian Culture | Jonas Masetty | Global Indian Jonas Masetti[/caption]

From engineering to spirituality: A life transformed

Jonas discovered yoga and Vedanta in the early 2003 while searching for answers to a growing sense of dissatisfaction with his life, despite having a successful career as a mechanical engineer. “I had everything that a Western society needs to have. I had family, friends and money. I used to go to parties but I was not feeling fulfilled. Also, the people I knew had a lot of trouble, “he said, “I felt what the Western ideology was proposing to me wasn’t going to give me fulfilment.”

The quest to explore beyond the material world, led Jonas to meet Santosh Vallury, an Indian yogi who had recently moved to Brazil at that time. “I had the privilege and good fortune to have many one-to-one sessions with him,” Jonas recalled.

This relationship sparked Jonas’s interest in Indian spirituality and led him to the U.S. to meet Swami Dayananda Saraswati, a revered teacher of Vedanta. At an ashram in Saylorsburg, Pennsylvania, Jonas experienced the transformative power of Indian wisdom through Vedic teachings and seva (selfless service). “After that, I was very into the culture because there was a connection which I felt deeply,” he explained.

Jonas’s journey of transformation reached its peak when he enrolled in a three-and-a-half-year residential course at Arsha Vidya Gurukulam in Coimbatore. “For me, the three-year course was fundamental.” He felt as if he is a completely new person. “It was like being born again.” The immersive program shaped him into an Acharya (master) of Vedanta, and he returned to Brazil as a teacher.

Indian Culture | Jonas Masetty | Global Indian

Establishing Vishva Vidya: A Vedic oasis in Brazil

In 2014, Jonas founded Vishva Vidya, an institute dedicated to preserving and sharing the teachings of Vedanta in Brazil. Located in the scenic hills of Petropolis, near Rio de Janeiro, the institute offers classes, retreats, and immersive learning experiences. Its name, meaning ‘universal knowledge’ in Sanskrit, reflects Jonas’s belief in the inclusivity of Vedic teachings.

He has also adopted a hybrid model to reach a wider audience, combining traditional in-person sessions with innovative online platforms. The interactive learning system, introduced at Vishva Vidya, replicates the experience of a classroom through cutting-edge technology. “We have four cameras and 32 monitors arranged in a U-shape so hundreds of students can interact with each other and with me in real-time,” Jonas explained.

The institute has become a hub for Brazilians seeking to immerse themselves in Indian philosophy, Sanskrit, and the Vedic tradition, creating a gated community that thrives on learning and self-discovery.

Jonas also runs an initiative called Chhatralya in Brazil meant for underprivileged students interested in receiving spiritual teachings.

[caption id="attachment_61146" align="aligncenter" width="824"] Indian Culture | Spiritual Guru | Global Indian Jonas during one of his sessions[/caption]

Acknowledgment by Prime Minister Modi: A global spotlight

Jonas’s efforts in popularizing Vedanta have garnered widespread recognition, including a significant mention by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his Mann Ki Baat program in 2021. During the broadcast, Modi praised Jonas for his work in bringing the Bhagavad Gita and Indian philosophy to Brazil, calling him an ambassador of Vedic culture.

The Prime Minister introduced him to the world as the person with perhaps the largest following of Vedanta in Brazil.” During that time Jonas had 150,000 followers studying daily. “That is probably how he came to notice us, and it’s a recognition,” Jonas reflected. “Being foreigners, there is a lot of resistance. Those who choose to go on this path (of spirituality) lack a sense of belonging. For us, it was very special because we felt that we were accepted. It was a reason for a lot of joy for us.”

This recognition took on a more personal dimension during Modi’s recent visit to Brazil. At an event in Rio de Janeiro, Jonas and his team presented an awe-inspiring Sanskrit rendition of the Ramayana for the Prime Minister. The performance showcased the enduring relevance of Indian traditions in a global context. Following that, Modi took to Twitter to reaffirm Jonas's role as an ambassador of Vedic culture, further spotlighting him.

[caption id="attachment_61152" align="aligncenter" width="851"] Indian Culture | Jonas Masetti with Modi | Global Indian Jonas Masetti with PM Modi during the latter's recent visit to Brazil[/caption]

Translating ancient texts for modern readers

One of Jonas’s most significant contributions is his work in translating Indian scriptures. His translation of the Bhagavad Gita, completed over two and a half years, has been a meticulous effort to preserve the essence of the original text. “For every expression, I wanted the ‘original meaning’ so that the essence is not lost,” Jonas shared. For example, he added explanatory footnotes to bridge cultural gaps, comparing Kamadhenu, the wish-fulfilling cow, to Aladdin’s lamp for Western readers.

In addition to the Gita, Jonas Masetti has translated other foundational texts and plans to work on the Upanishads, ensuring that Western audiences have access to these timeless teachings. He is also an author, and the host of the podcast Vedanta Cast.

Inspiring a global movement

Through his teaching, translations, and cultural exchanges, Jonas Masetti has created a unique space where Indian and Brazilian traditions come together. His institution, Vishva Vidya has become a model for how ancient knowledge can thrive in the modern Western world, attracting students from diverse backgrounds and creating a global Vedantic community.

Jonas’s vision extends beyond teaching. He believes in the transformative power of spirituality to bring out the best in individuals and societies. He is now working to revive Brazil’s spiritual legacy, connecting it with Indian wisdom to foster a deeper understanding of universal human values.

[caption id="attachment_61145" align="aligncenter" width="662"] Indian Culture | Spiritual Guru | Global Indian Jonas Masetti[/caption]

“Our connections with fathers, grandfathers, with devatas, with nature, and everything that is available help us become the best version of ourselves and lead the world spiritually,” Jonas remarked while discussing Indian practices, a message he actively propagates.

Indian diaspora in Brazil

The Indian diaspora in Brazil is a small but dynamic community that reflects the historical ties and growing connections between the two nations. While the migration of Indians to Brazil is not as large-scale as seen in countries like the United States or the United Kingdom, their presence has been steadily growing, particularly in cities like São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro. Many Indians have settled in Brazil as professionals in fields such as information technology, engineering, research and academia. Additionally, Indian culture has left a distinct mark on Brazilian society through the popularity of yoga, Bollywood films, and Indian cuisine.

Universality of ancient Indian wisdom

Jonas’s journey from Rio de Janeiro to the ashrams of India and back is a proof of the universality of ancient wisdom. He has made Vedanta accessible to thousands in the land he comes from, proving that spirituality transcends geographical and cultural boundaries.

Indian Culture | Jonas Masetty | Global Indian

Jonas Masetti’s story is a shining example of how one individual can become a bridge between cultures. His work serves as a reminder that the search for knowledge and self-awareness is a universal endeavour, capable of uniting people across the world.

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Bringing Silicon Valley to India: How Vani Kola sparked a startup revolution

(November 6, 2024) In 2006, Vani Kola returned to India after spending more than two decades in the United States, fueled by a desire to be part of a rapidly transforming landscape. This wasn’t just any homecoming; it was the beginning of a bold venture — Kalaari Capital, an early-stage venture capital firm that would become one of India's leading investors in technology startups giving 3x to 5x returns to its investors. Kola, a pioneer in venture capital in India, has invested in companies like Cure. Fit, Myntra, Snapdeal, Dream11, Urban Ladder, and YourStory which have thrived under her guidance. At 60, she has over 22 years of entrepreneurial experience in Silicon Valley and has invested in over 90 companies. Recognized as one of Fortune’s Most Powerful Women in Business, Kola is dedicated to collaborating with entrepreneurs to create high-value businesses. What truly distinguishes her is her commitment to being accessible to her founders, along with her focus on nurturing and mentoring ambitious first-time entrepreneurs. "I approach everything with the question, ‘Will I find meaning in the context and horizon of time that truly matters to me?’ Ultimately, everything you do is for yourself," said Vani, whose venture capital firm

erything with the question, ‘Will I find meaning in the context and horizon of time that truly matters to me?’ Ultimately, everything you do is for yourself," said Vani, whose venture capital firm has grown to have over $650 million in assets under management.

Understanding that AI is the future, Kalaari Capital has been investing heavily in AI startups. Recently, they invested $2 million in Hyperbots, a startup that uses AI for finance and accounting, which was followed by another $2.25 million investment in Figr which uses AI to design products insanely fast with ease. Explaining why they invested in Figr, Kalaari Capital said, "Generative AI is now revolutionising design space, with AI agents autonomously executing design tasks and streamlining workflows from ideation to implementation."

Pushing the Envelope

Vani's story begins in Hyderabad, where she was born in 1964. Growing up, she faced the challenge of being one of only six women in a class of 400 electrical engineering students at Osmania University. The odds were against her, but Kola has always believed in doing things differently. "I was encouraged to dream, to pursue a career in a male-dominated world." She is grateful that she had a nurturing home and an encouraging school environment that nudged her constantly to push the envelope.

The Silicon Valley Chapter: Building Success Abroad

After earning her bachelor’s degree, she moved to the US in 1985 to pursue her Master’s degree from Arizona State University. This was a time when very few women chose this path, especially in fields dominated by men. After completing her studies, she settled in California, where she founded her first startup, RightWorks, in 1996. The company focused on global procurement management and quickly gained traction. Under her leadership, RightWorks was sold for an impressive $567 million, establishing Kola as a force to be reckoned with in the tech world.

[caption id="attachment_59371" align="aligncenter" width="641"] Vani Kola | Global Indian Vani Kola[/caption]

Her success didn’t come without challenges; Kola often faced gender bias, with male colleagues questioning her commitment as a mother while pursuing her career. Reflecting on this, she recounted an experience where a male acquaintance asked if she felt guilty for leaving her infant daughter at home while traveling for business. “It just doesn’t occur to men! You just have to develop tools to cope,” Kola explained. It was her tenacity that helped her navigate these challenges, establishing herself as a strong entrepreneur in Silicon Valley. For many, including Kola, Silicon Valley represented not only a place of opportunity but also a launching pad for ideas that would later impact India and the world.

Returning to her Roots

After selling her second startup, Certus, in 2005, she took a moment to reflect on her future. It was during a solo trip to Hawaii that Kola experienced an awakening, realising it was time to return to India after briefly travelling to her homeland. It felt like a new country to her and she was drawn to it.

"This is a very different India and if I don't participate in it, India will be fine, but I will miss out. My entrepreneurial fervour or my entrepreneurial bone drove me here." -- Vani Kola

Founding Kalaari Capital: A Return with Purpose

Within a few months, she packed her bags and bought a one-way ticket to India in 2006, where she set up Indo-US Venture Partners which was later rebranded as Kalaari Capital, taking inspiration from Kalaripayattu, a martial arts form which to her represented entrepreneurial traits she deeply values - commitment, strength and perseverance. Having raised funds in North America, she came with credibility and reputation but she had to unlearn many things. Having worked for 22 years in Silicon Valley, she was keen to make India global. However, back then, the market was yet to evolve. "My US network and experience was useless because Indian companies weren’t rapidly going global at that point," she said, adding that's when she started venturing into e-commerce and gaming. "You can call it a leap of faith or a deep conviction but we started taking early bets on that." Despite entering into a new space in India, Vani was happy to take the chance as she saw it as an adventure and a learning experience that could test her in a fulfilling way.

Starting with an initial fund of $150 million, Kalaari Capital has expanded its portfolio over the years, investing in diverse areas such as e-commerce, gaming, digital media, and healthcare. Kalaari Capital was an early investor in Snapdeal, Myntra, Dream11 via Simplilearn, and many companies that made great returns. "Coming from a very conservative middle-class family, the sense of money and its value is very intimate to me. Money is a means to an end; it is not the end itself. But money brings responsibilities and obligations. We have always wanted to create par returns globally and have been able to consistently return 3x to 5x of our funds. This puts us in the top quartile in the world," the Global Indian revealed.

Her journey also intersects with the broader narrative of the Indian diaspora, particularly in Silicon Valley, where many Indians have made significant contributions to technology and entrepreneurship. This community has played a crucial role in the growth of the tech industry, bringing diverse perspectives and innovations. Vani, as part of this community, has demonstrated how cross-cultural experiences can lead to meaningful contributions back home.

Empowering the Next Generation of Innovators

Throughout her career, Kola has remained committed to empowering others. As a mentor to many first-time entrepreneurs, she actively seeks to bridge the gap in the venture capital space for women. When discussing the scarcity of women venture capitalists, she emphasised the need for more women in STEM leadership positions to create a more inclusive ecosystem. “You need women in those positions to be tech venture capitalists,” she asserted.

Reflecting on her journey, Vani Kola encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to embrace challenges without fear of risks. “The principle of pushing yourself for challenges without worrying about calculating the risk, but instead looking at the upside, looking at the positives was imbibed in me.” Her story is a powerful reminder that success is not just about the destination but also about the journey and the lessons learned along the way.

As Vani Kola continues to lead Kalaari Capital and support the next generation of entrepreneurs, her legacy will undoubtedly inspire many to break through barriers and redefine what is possible.

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Aparna Chennapragada: Indian-American woman spearheading generative AI at Microsoft

(October 18, 2023) "I've always thrived on building and scaling products that combine deep foundational technology and intuitive user experience to solve customer problems -- whether it is Search that instantly finds relevant information, Assistant that you can talk to, or Google Lens that lets you search what you see," wrote Indian-American tech veteran Aparna Chennapragada on her LinkedIn as she graciously accepted the new position of Corporate Vice President at Microsoft. She recently stepped down as chief product officer of stock trading app Robinhood. Indian Americans are increasingly making significant strides in various prominent companies, owing to their exceptional talent and contributions. With a strong emphasis on education and a culture that values hard work and innovation, many Indian Americans have risen to prominent roles in the corporate world. This trend is particularly evident in the tech industry as leaders have not only shattered glass ceilings but have also played pivotal roles in driving innovation and growth for their respective organisations. And Aparna Chennapragada is yet another Indian American who has jumped on the bandwagon of Microsoft to help accelerate its generative AI initiatives. The IIT-Madras alumnus, who later moved to the US for her MS in Computer Science

agada is yet another Indian American who has jumped on the bandwagon of Microsoft to help accelerate its generative AI initiatives.

The IIT-Madras alumnus, who later moved to the US for her MS in Computer Science at the University of Texas, was always interested in technology that could transform lives. Interested in building software, she joined her first job as a software engineer in 1999. After gaining experience for a decade, she had the thirst to learn more and enrolled in the Massachusetts Institute of Technology's System Design and Management program, where she won third place in the MIT Venture Capital Competition 2008.

This led her to the doors of Google in 2008 where started as a product manager and in a span of 12 years made it to the Vice President of the company. "The biggest exciting moment for me is the combination of data and algorithms with useful user problems like looking for information to buy something. Everyone needs information on the go, and you need quick and bite-sized answers. Phones are turning into remote controls for our daily lives," she said in an interview.

Aparna Chennapragada | Global Indian

But now with AI taking over in almost every area of life, Aparna will be spearheading the generative AI initiatives within Microsoft 365 and Microsoft Designer. "Every few decades, there is a key shift in computing e.g., PC, the internet, mobile, and most recently AI that opens new possibilities for new helpful products. Just like mobile redefined areas such as news and navigation, I believe that generative AI has the potential to redefine creativity and productivity," she said, adding, "With generative AI, there is an opportunity to build products that instantly and easily bring your intent and imagination to life. That's why I am super excited to share that I am joining Microsoft as Corporate VP leading efforts on AI-first creation experiences, across #Microsoft365 and #MicrosoftDesigner.

Before her tenure at Microsoft, Chennapragada held positions at various organizations, including Robinhood, Google, eBay, and Akamai Technologies. Her journey at Google began as a product manager, eventually culminating in her role as Vice President and General Manager overseeing consumer shopping operations across the company. She also spearheaded augmented reality (AR) and visual search products, including Lens. Her impressive stint at the tech giant spanned over 12 years.

Additionally, she served as a board member at Capital One, a financial institution offering a wide range of financial products and services to consumers, small businesses, and commercial clients.

This action occurs within the context of a fierce rivalry in the artificial intelligence sector between Google and Microsoft. Chennapragada's appointment follows a trend of Indian-American experts assuming significant positions at Microsoft. Previously, Rohini Srivathsa took on the role of Chief Technology Officer at Microsoft India and South Asia in September, and in August, Puneet Chandok was named Microsoft's Corporate Vice President for India and South Asia.

Praising Satya Nadella, the CEO of Microsoft, with whom she had conversations in the last few months, Aparna has come to appreciate "his vision to empower people and organizations across the world using." "I'm looking forward to diving in and putting AI to use to unleash our collective creativity," she wrote in the LinkedIn post.

Follow Aparna Chennapragada on LinkedIn

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Author Jyoti Guptara is helping businesses with his storytelling skills

(July 6, 2022) When he dropped out of the school at the age of 15, many of his friends and family members thought that he was making the worst decision of his life. Many cautioned him, saying he wouldn't find any proper employment after growing up. However, today Jyoti Guptara is a celebrated story strategist, novelist and motivational speaker. Counted among the “100 Most Important Swiss” and a Novelist-in-Residence for a UN partner organisation, the author was recently awarded a Scroll of Honour for Special Services by the County of Los Angeles for philanthropy, literary achievement, and inspiring other young people. [caption id="attachment_26544" align="aligncenter" width="626"] Jyoti Guptara, author[/caption] "I always had a knack for writing, so I decided to leave school early and became a full-time writer at the age of 15. At that time, I don't think my teachers would have imagined that they would be inviting me back three years later to speak as a bestselling author," he shares, as he connects with Global Indian from Switzerland. Jyoti is one of the early architects of business storytelling in Europe. He has worked with several leading organisations, including Deutsche Telekom, SwissRe, World Vision, The Global Humanitarian Forum, Bildungsdirection Kanton

et="_blank" rel="noopener">Global Indian from Switzerland. Jyoti is one of the early architects of business storytelling in Europe. He has worked with several leading organisations, including Deutsche Telekom, SwissRe, World Vision, The Global Humanitarian Forum, Bildungsdirection Kanton Zurich, University of St. Gallen, the Geneva Centre for Security Policy and the United Nations.

Born to write

Born to an English mother and Keralite father and based in Switzerland, Jyoti is a citizen of the UK as well as of Switzerland. He has a twin brother, Suresh, whom he shares a very close bond. They would do almost everything together, from falling in love with Star Wars and Chronicles of Narnia, to writing their first book, Conspiracy of Calaspia. "We had the same influences, so we loved the same stories and books growing up," shares Jyoti, adding, "So, when we were 11, we had an idea for a fantasy story. I remember, I snuck down to my parent's room to use the computer to start writing the story. We promised each other that we would finish the book, no matter how long it took."

Those night-time expeditions to the computer resulted, six months later, in Conspiracy of Calaspia. "No publisher wanted it," he laughs, adding, "We edited the book several times and about six years later the book got published." The book was launched in Delhi, by the then Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit, who called the brothers "born storytellers."

[caption id="attachment_26545" align="aligncenter" width="692"] Author | Jyoti Guptara | Global Indian Jyoti and Suresh at the Conspiracy of Calaspia book launch, with Sheila Dikshit[/caption]

While students his age were busy planning what they wanted to do in their life, Jyoti already knew he wanted to be an author. "I had started writing articles when I was 15 and already two had been published. I think the Universe had given me a signal that my writing career would flourish. So, I left school and only focused on writing," shares the author.

The power of storytelling

Although their first book was a worldwide bestseller, and fetched the young writers widespread praise, only Jyoti continued to write books. However, writing alone came with many challenges. "I had only written with my brother, I had to rediscover the process since I would be writing on my own,” says the storyteller, who took a job with the Swiss government to ensure a regular income.

Going through a rough patch financially at the time, Jyoti decided he had to reinvent himself. And that is where his journey as a business storyteller began. "When I was a Fellow and Writer-in-Residence at the Geneva Centre for Security Policy, I realised that people’s best content often came after presentations, informally over coffee – where people told stories. I was quickly able to apply my decade of experience with fiction to executive education, helping business leaders find and tell stories to give better talks, to pitch ideas and influence meetings,” says the author.

[caption id="attachment_26546" align="aligncenter" width="703"] Author | Jyoti Guptara | Global Indian Jyoti leading an executive education workshop[/caption]

Business storytelling, Jyoti explains, “Is the quickest, cheapest and deepest way to influence anyone. A lot of people have a great product or idea, but struggle to convince people to buy it. I help them with a framework, to connect to the right people, convince them and convert it into sales."

Ten years of writing fiction meant Jyoti brought with him a skill set seldom seen in Marketing / Communication circles – the ability to tell a gripping story. He worked with business leaders on their presentations and discussions, helping them weave their own real-life anecdotes, experiences, and personalised learnings into the narrative. In Europe, where he was one of the first business storytellers on the scene, Jyoti offers workshops, coaching and global consulting services for both individuals and organisations. He has worked with a range of companies, including “start-ups, SMEs and Fortune 500s with executive education, story systems, proven brand messaging frameworks and immersive storytelling in virtual reality,” Jyoti says.

[caption id="attachment_26548" align="aligncenter" width="660"] Author | Jyoti Guptara | Global Indian Jyoti, teaching masters students at top business school, University of St. Gallen[/caption]

However, despite his very busy schedule, Jyoti is still working on his books. "Recently, I distilled my experience in a 100-page start-now guide: Business Storytelling from Hype to Hack. This Amazon bestseller explains why Forbes calls storytelling the most important business skill, and shows how you can master the skill enjoyably – before your competition does.," says the author, who lives with his wife in Switzerland.

Follow Jyoti Guptara on LinkedIn, Twitter, and on his website

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