Results-driven inclusion and diversity catalyst with a promising record of developing and operationalizing strategies and programs that engage and unite diverse missions (UN, development aid organisations, non-government organisations, public institutions) and the private sector.

Recognized in India and the south/ south east Asia region as a community leader and public speaker with expertise in topics on LGBTIQ, women’s empowerment, human rights and inclusion and diversity.

Born in Mumbai, Zainab is a transgender person & is one of the petitioners in the National Legal Services Authority v. Union of India case on transgender rights. She holds an MBA in Human Resources & is the National Manager Health & Human Rights at UNDP country office in India.

Her areas of interest are wellness, health & social development issues. She comes with over 20 years of national & international work experience.

Zainab also works as a Diversity & Inclusion (D&I) consultant, coach, facilitator & supports companies in various industries in change processes towards more diversity in leadership. She has in-depth knowledge & expertise in the design, implementation of programs, strategies that foster diversity, equality & inclusion on LGBTI issues & gender.

Zainab also conducts interventions on mitigating unconscious bias in hiring & promotion, diversity target setting & other inclusion practices.

Zainab is well-versed with supporting the development of required Policy & Operational Guidelines, Trainings, provides analysis & research to support Mobilizing, Fostering & Strengthening Strategic Partnerships.

She has been exposed to insightful partnerships across multiple types of organizations like, the United Nations, external partner institutions (including governments), National Human Rights Institutions, private sector, academia, NGOs & CSOs, gives her the strengths of versatility, leadership & skills of a facilitator.

She is a woman with great conviction, known for her strong opinions, passion & ideas to bring the much-needed change in the culture of aspiring business houses & perspectives of top leaders. Zainab is a powerful, articulate speaker who converts her life’s adversities into wonderful stories of inspiration, hope, faith & survival.