Sushila Varma is the Executive Director of IWWAGE and brings over two decades of experience across social impact, strategy, innovation, partnerships and media. At IWWAGE, she works at the intersection of research, policy and practice to advance women’s economic empowerment through evidence-driven solutions and collaborative action.
Prior to joining IWWAGE, Sushila led the Design and Innovation Centre at CARE USA, where she worked with global teams, social enterprises, academic institutions and development partners to design and scale innovations. Earlier, she led strategy, innovation and partnerships at CARE India, working closely with governments, donors and ecosystem partners.
Before entering the development sector, Sushila spent nearly a decade in the media industry, contributing to the launch and growth of several publications. She is also a member of the Swedish Institute Alumni Network, a global community of leaders working to advance sustainable development, innovation and social change.
Sushila holds a bachelor’s degree in Zoology and a postgraduate qualification from the University of Mumbai. She is passionate about creating pathways for women to shape and participate fully in economic progress and believes lasting social change happens when evidence, innovation and lived experience come together.