India Leaders for Social Sector

Behind every thriving nonprofit is a leader who figured out the hardest part; not the mission, but the people. - Hiring the right person. - Keeping them engaged & motivated. - Growing them. - Building a culture they don't want to leave. - Creating systems that outlast any one individual. And yet, in the social sector, our conversations continue to focus largely on community, impact, and scale. What often remains in the background is the quiet, complex work of building organisations where people can truly thrive. But the #peoplelandscape in the social sector is changing rapidly. #Talentexpectations are evolving. #Leadershippipelines remain thin. #Retention is becoming harder. What was once important has now become critical for organisational sustainability. Through our work with leaders across the sector, ILSS has come to believe that leadership capability cannot stand alone. It becomes transformative only when supported by thoughtful people practices, strong systems, and organisational rigor. That is why we felt the need to intervene. Introducing The ILSS People Practices Program -designed for nonprofit leaders who want to strengthen how their organisations hire, grow, engage, and retain talent. More than a program, it is an effort to build a community of leaders who are collectively rethinking people practices in the social sector. Because the mission is only as strong as the people carrying it. Application deadline: 18 May 2026 Scholarship deadline: 4 May 2026 📩 Apply now: indialeadersforsocialsector.com/ilss-people-pr… #AreYouInThe36Percent #TheGapIsGrowing #YouCantScaleAlone #PeopleFirstLeadership #NotJustHR #DontLeaveItToChance #PeoplePracticesNotPaperwork #BuildingPeopleLeaders #ILSSPeoplePractices

Over 25 editions of The ILSS Leadership Program, one insight has surfaced again and again. For many leaders, engaging with the social sector is not just a role shift - it is an identity shift. Today, our community of 500+ alumni is contributing to the sector in myriad ways - leading and strengthening organisations, shaping strategy and governance, supporting philanthropy, advising nonprofits, and building partnerships that drive social change across India. If you feel the pull to contribute to the social sector but don’t know where to begin - this is your starting point. Build sector understanding, strengthen your leadership, and learn alongside an extraordinary peer community. Applications for upcoming cohorts are now open. Cohort 26 (Delhi NCR): 22 – 30 May 2026 (9-day residential) Cohort 27 (Bengaluru): 1 – 9 August 2026 (9-day residential) Apply here: indialeadersforsocialsector.com/the-ilss-leade… #LeadershipInTheSocialSector #NonprofitManagement #SystemsChange #OrganisationalLeadership #SocialChange #PurposeDrivenLeadership #SocialSectorIndia

What does a ‘career reset’ look like after 30 years of success? For many senior professionals, with decades of experience behind them, the question isn’t about capability, it’s about direction. The ILSS Leadership Program creates space for seasoned corporate leaders to take a step back from familiar momentum and think intentionally about contribution, impact and the next phase of their leadership. Shalini Gupta, Co-founder and Partner at Ishwa Consulting and an alum of Cohort 25, put it this way: 'The Program opened up my eyes to the social sector in India, helped me understand how to best use my skills and experience both to see impact and to bring me a sense of fulfilment. I couldn't have asked for a better reset for myself after almost 3 decades in the corporate sector!' Across 9 residential days, participants of the Program: • interact with leaders running social organisations across sectors • see how development challenges unfold beyond reports and dashboards • understand career pathways, constraints and realities of the development ecosystem in the country • and spend time interrogating their own motivations, assumptions and expectations For Shalini, the program became that rare opportunity to pause and choose her next chapter deliberately. If this question resonates with where you are in your career, we invite you to explore the Program! Applications for upcoming cohorts are now open: indialeadersforsocialsector.com/the-ilss-leade… #LeadershipInTheSocialSector #NonprofitManagement #SystemsChange

Digital transformation is often misunderstood as adopting the latest technology. But as Sanjeev Prasad reminded us, real transformation starts with clarity on the problem, not with picking up a technology. When organisations first simplify processes, build people’s capabilities, and design strong data systems, technology becomes a true force multiplier. It amplifies what already works instead of automating broken processes. Examples from Seva Mandir and Anudip Foundation show that disciplined, mission-aligned digital adoption leads to efficiency, accountability, and real impact. Read his article and more here: …pired.indialeadersforsocialsector.com/edition5-flipb… This is exactly what The ILSS Digital Transformation for Social Impact Program is enabling by helping nonprofits build digital capacity and turn technology into a lever for stronger systems and better outcomes. Learn more about the program here: indialeadersforsocialsector.com/the-ilss-digit… Application Deadline: 23 March 2026 #DigitalTransformation #SocialImpact #Leadership #Nonprofits #SystemsChange

Last month, we graduated cohort 3 of The ILSS Digital Transformation for Social Impact, with sector leaders ready to take the next leap in their digital journeys across their respective organisations. Over the course of the program, cohort members conceptualised a minimum viable product to address their organisational challenges, working at the intersection of systems thinking, user-centred design, and real-world implementation. As we mark this milestone, we’re pleased to announce that applications for cohort 4 are now open. We look forward to welcoming the next cohort of leaders committed to leveraging technology for social impact. Learn more about the program here: indialeadersforsocialsector.com/the-ilss-digit…

Powering #IFRC2026: GivingTuesday We are delighted to acknowledge the invaluable support of GivingTuesday India in bringing the India Fundraising Conference 2026 to life this February. GivingTuesday is a global nonprofit dedicated to unleashing the power of radical generosity. Grounded in empathy, solidarity, and shared humanity, it works across communities and cultures to ensure generosity becomes part of everyday life—not just moments of giving, but a sustained force for social good. At IFRC 2026, we recognise that meaningful and lasting impact depends on more than funding alone. It requires strong organisational capacity, trusted networks, and leadership that can nurture participation, belonging, and shared responsibility. GivingTuesday’s work—supporting networked leadership, storytelling, and the flow of human, financial, and social capital—reflects this ecosystem-wide approach to building impact. We look forward to learning from and engaging with movements like GivingTuesday as we collectively explore how India’s social sector can build generosity that is inclusive, enduring, and transformative. 📅 Event Dates: 5–6 February 2026 📍 Venue: India Habitat Centre, New Delhi Join us at #IFRC2026 for global insights, expert-led masterclasses, and timely conversations on strengthening organisational capacity and cultivating a culture of generosity across India’s social sector: ifrc.indialeadersforsocialsector.com/?utm_source=We…

At IFRC, learning isn’t one-size-fits-all. From big-picture conversations on the future of fundraising to hands-on masterclasses, IFRC brings together diverse session formats designed to meet you where you are. Expect: •⁠ ⁠Insightful panel discussions with sector leaders •⁠ ⁠Deep-dive masterclasses focused on practical skills •⁠ ⁠Peer learning spaces to exchange real experiences •⁠ ⁠Conversations that challenge, inspire, and equip fundraisers for what’s next Whether you’re rethinking strategy, sharpening your craft, or building new connections — there’s a session at IFRC for you. See you at IFRC! Dates: 5-6 February 2026 Register for IFRC 2026 here: ifrc.indialeadersforsocialsector.com/?utm_source=We… #FundraisingForImpact #ILSS #Changemakers #CapacityCommunityCelebration

In this video, Russell Parera, Partner PwC India and alum of The ILSS Board Leadership Program, shares why he chose to join the program and what drew him towards engaging more deeply with the social sector. For many leaders, the intent to contribute is clear, but the pathway is not. The Board Leadership Program offers a structured entry point to understand the sector, reflect on one’s role, and explore meaningful ways to engage beyond the corporate world in an advisory capacity. Learn more about the program here: indialeadersforsocialsector.com/the-ilss-board… Watch Russell speak about what prompted his decision to begin that journey.

#IWLCUpdates | Discover how to sustain your energy, deepen self-awareness, and reconnect with your purpose — so you can lead not just effectively, but authentically and with renewed vitality. Leaders often push through pressure, deadlines, and burnout — but what truly sustains performance is wellbeing. Managing energy, motivation, and focus isn’t a luxury; it’s a leadership discipline. At #IWLC 2025, Gagan Adlakha, transformational coach and Partner at Vyaktitva, will lead a powerful masterclass on the intersection of leadership and holistic wellbeing. The session will offer reflective practices, science-backed insights, and practical tools to help leaders nurture their emotional, mental, and physical resilience. 📍 Date - 28 November 2025 📍 Venue - India Habitat Centre, New Delhi. Register Here: indialeadersforsocialsector.com/india-womens-l… Limited Seats | First Come, First Serve! #MindfulLeadership #SustainablePerformance #WellbeingAtWork #IWLC2025 #LeadershipUnbound #InspireEmpowerCatalys #SDG5InAction #VoicesOfCourage #ShapingEquitableFuture #LeadBeyondTitles #FutureisFemaleCatalysingChange

Fast-paced. Visual. Impactful. The Impact Spotlight at IWLC 2025 is where innovation meets inspiration. In a dynamic Pecha Kucha format — 10 slides, 3 minutes, and countless ideas for change — organisations from across India will take the stage to share how they’re advancing gender equity and driving integrated social change across sectors such as education, health, livelihoods, disability inclusion, and climate action. These are the stories of changemakers reimagining leadership, challenging boundaries, and creating systemic impact through locally rooted and collaborative solutions. At ILSS, we see this Spotlight as more than just a showcase — it’s a celebration of leadership, collaboration, and the power of purpose-driven innovation. Together, we aim to spark new conversations, amplify learning, and inspire collective action towards a more inclusive and equitable India. 🌟 Join us at IWLC 2025 to witness the power of innovation in action and be inspired by changemakers driving India’s gender equity movement forward. Register now 👉indialeadersforsocialsector.com/india-womens-l… 📍 Date - 28 November 2025 📍 Venue - India Habitat Centre, New Delhi. Limited Seats | First Come, First Serve! #IWLC2025 #LeadershipUnbound #InspireEmpowerCatalys #SDG5InAction #VoicesOfCourage #ShapingEquitableFuture #LeadBeyondTitles #FutureisFemale

#IWLC2025 Updates | India Women's Leadership Conference 2025 brings together a day full of perspectives that explore the invisible, intergenerational, and intersectional lens of leadership — the kind we share, experience, and envision today. At IWLC 2025, remarkable voices — Aakash Sethi, Pooja Sharma Goyal, Pooja Taparia, Rekha M Menon, Dr Ruha Shadab, Saurabh Nigam, Uthara Narayanan, and Yamini Atmavilas — will come together to shape conversations that are #bold, #layered, and deeply #human. Join us to experience a day of #diverse formats, #unique focus, and nuanced #contexual leadership journeys that expand the dialogue and rewrite the narrative of leadership for present and the future. Register now 👉indialeadersforsocialsector.com/india-womens-l… 📍 Date - 28 November 2025 📍 Venue - India Habitat Centre, New Delhi. Limited Seats | First Come, First Serve! #IWLC2025 #LeadershipUnbound #InspireEmpowerCatalys #SDG5InAction #VoicesOfCourage #ShapingEquitableFuture #LeadBeyondTitles #FutureisFemale

Behind every social issue is a web of deeper, interconnected challenges. To create lasting change, we must go beyond surface-level solutions. A systemic approach—one that sees the whole picture—is vital. In this blog by Nuupur Mahajan (Associate Director, ILSS), we explore how real change demands: ✔ Stakeholder alignment ✔ Adaptability & flexibility ✔ Redefining success ✔ Purpose-driven leadership Read the blog here: indialeadersforsocialsector.com/navigating-com… At ILSS, we believe in empowering leaders to navigate this complexity with heart, vision, and systemic thinking. Join a powerful network of 1000+ alumni and 400+ organisations working to build a more just, equitable India. Applications are open for The ILSS Leadership Program, learn more and apply:indialeadersforsocialsector.com/the-ilss-leade… 📅 8–16 August 2025 | 📍 Delhi NCR Lead where India needs you the most. #SystemicChange #SocialImpact #ILSSLeadership #PurposeDriven #Changemakers #SocialSector

✨ IWLC 2025: A Day of Leadership, Learning & Limitless Possibility ✨ Mark your calendars: 28 November 2025 | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM The stage is set for a full day of ideas, dialogue, and connections that will redefine women’s leadership in India’s social sector. From panel discussions exploring leadership beyond templates, engaging men as true partners in equity, and placing gender at the core of funding and strategy, to masterclasses on impact, branding, and wellbeing — every session is designed to spark reflection and action. Cap it off with the Intergenerational Perspectives, where #Women and #Men across generations, identities and backgrounds share insights, challenge paradigms, and shape the future of leadership. 🎟️ Early Bird Discount ends 15 October. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this transformative day — a platform to learn, connect, and lead. Register now 👉 indialeadersforsocialsector.com/india-womens-l… 📍 Join us on 28 November at the India Habitat Centre, New Delhi. #IWLC2025 #LeadershipUnbound #InspireEmpowerCatalys #SDG5InAction #VoicesOfCourage #ShapingEquitableFuture #LeadBeyondTitles #FutureisFemale

#MustRead | Leadership Inspired - Social Impactor for India, Edition 4 Strong governance lies at the heart of effective nonprofits. As the sector evolves, so must the systems that uphold accountability, strategic foresight, and impact. Our cover story, ‘Evolving Role of Boards in the Social Sector: A Governance Blueprint’, in this edition of Leadership Inspired, explores how advisory boards are emerging as powerful complements to statutory boards, bringing agility, diverse perspectives, and specialised expertise to nonprofit governance. Together, they form a two-tiered model that strengthens compliance, strategy, and resilience. Dive into this introductory chapter from ‘The ILSS Landscape Research on Nonprofit Advisory Boards in India,’ developed in partnership with Antara Advisory, to understand how this evolving model can shape the future of social purpose organisations. Read the cover story here: …pired.indialeadersforsocialsector.com/2025/10/08/cov… Strong governance doesn’t just happen by chance, it is built through thoughtful leadership. Through a 3-day immersive experience, The ILSS Board Leadership Program equips senior professionals from other sectors to step into critical board roles in the social sector with clarity, confidence, and purpose, strengthening impact where it matters the most. Applications are open for Cohort 9 of the program. To find out more about the program, visit: indialeadersforsocialsector.com/the-ilss-board…

Applications are now open for Cohort 9. To know more about the Program, click here: indialeadersforsocialsector.com/the-ilss-board…

Stepping into India’s Social Sector as a Board Member? India’s social sector is at a turning point — vast resources, urgent challenges, and the need for leaders who can guide with wisdom and vision. As a board leader, you’re expected to bring clarity and insight — even if you’re new to the space. The ILSS Board Leadership Program is designed for accomplished professionals ready to bring their boardroom experience to where it matters most. Over 3 days, you will gain sectoral insight, learn from peers who’ve made the transition, and witness impact firsthand through a field visit to a social purpose organisation.

#GandhiJayanti: Change Begins Within ‘Be the change that you wish to see in the world.’ – Mahatma Gandhi Real change begins with leadership — leadership that is value-driven, courageous, and committed to the greater good. In today’s India, this call carries renewed urgency. From climate change to inequality, the challenges we face demand more than intent — they demand leaders who can act with purpose and clarity. At ILSS, we believe India’s future depends on such changemakers: individuals who can transform challenges into opportunities and build a more inclusive tomorrow. This Gandhi Jayanti, we honour that spirit of purposeful leadership.

🚨 Last day to submit! 🚨 Help shape the future of fundraising in India. The India Fundraising Conference (IFRC) 2026 is calling for your ideas to co-create an impactful fifth edition. How you can contribute: 🎯 Lead a session – share your expertise and insights Submit here: lnkd.in/gKauj5MF 🎤 Suggest speakers or themes – who would you love to hear from? What topics matter most to your fundraising journey? Submit here: lnkd.in/gnjGNrMV 🤝 Tag a fundraiser – know someone with valuable insights? Tag them to contribute their ideas! ⏰ Deadline: 30 September 2025 📅 Event date: 5–6 February 2026 📍 Venue: India Habitat Centre, New Delhi Shortlisted proposals will be contacted in October. Join us and shape the conversation on fundraising for social impact in India.

From profit to purpose — the skills are the same, but the impact is greater. Corporate expertise isn’t just for business growth. Applied in the social sector, it builds scalable solutions, strengthens organisations, and amplifies impact where it matters most. The social sector needs the same rigor, innovation, and strategy that drives success in the corporate world. When boardroom expertise meets grassroots challenges, we don’t just grow organisations — we build a better tomorrow. Watch the video here: youtu.be/lCNBMoj1T1w?si… Be part of a growing network of 1000+ alumni and 400+ organisations shaping impact across India. Applications open now for The ILSS Leadership Program, Cohort 25 Program Dates: 23–31 January 2026 🎯 For senior professionals (12+ years) from corporate, defence & government 📩 Apply Now: indialeadersforsocialsector.com/the-ilss-leade…

What does it feel like to be in a room full of changemakers, visionaries, and women rewriting the very meaning of leadership? At #IWLC2024, participants described the experience as nothing short of transformative: 🔹 A powerful day of pause and reflection, reclaiming women’s voices and stories to instill courage. 🔹 A space to learn from remarkable leaders breaking barriers and redefining success with confidence and authenticity. 🔹 An enriching community where networking turned into collaboration, and inspiration into action. 🔹 A reminder of why spaces like these are essential — for courage, connection, and change. At #IWLC2025, we carry this spirit forward — #bolder, #bigger, #braver. True leadership is not about one, but about all of us reshaping the future together. 📍 #IWLC2025 | 28 November 2025 | India Habitat Centre, New Delhi Early Bird Discount will last till 15 October 2025. 🔗 Register now to be part of IWLC 2025 t.co/jixpA8xChu