Friday, February 11, 2011

Meet Navneet Singh Narula



Navneet Singh Narula
       Chief Brilliance Officer, nBrilliance 
Cell: 404.915.2300


Navneet is an award winning social entrepreneur, global development leader and a humanitarian. He is the Chief Brilliance officer at nBrilliance Innovations where he focuses on managing change and leading innovation to help his clients deliver high performance. 

Formerly, he was a top management executive at Accenture; where he focused on mergers and acquisitions for Wall Street clients and Fortune 500 companies. He was honored by Consulting Magazine as “Top 30 Consultants in America”, recognized by Hillary Clinton as “Outstanding 50 Asian Americans in Business” and selected “Best Finance Executives” at American Business Awards. 

He is also the Chief Leadership Officer at United Sikhs, a global UN mandated humanitarian relief NGO, where he has dedicated many months on site searching and rescuing people, bagging dead bodies, starting relief shelters, living in tents and serving victims of Tsunami in Asia, Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans, Asian earthquake in Kashmir and Pakistan, Haiti earthquake and the recent Japan Tsunami last year.

He has led humanitarian projects across the world totaling over $USD 500 million dollars. For his global community service, he was honored as “Humanitarian of the Year” by MIB foundation and is the first Sikh to have been honored by President Obama for Presidential Volunteer Service Award

His current vision includes implementing a “Global Impact Campaign” that will activate 1 million citizens to volunteer in Human Rights causes and Human Development projects in their own communities.

Narula is on the founding Board of Directors of Asian American Legal Advocacy Center (AALAC), the first non-profit law center supporting Asian Americans, Pacific Islanders, and Asian-ethnic refugees in the Southeast to protect and promote the civil, social and economic rights through public policy, community organizing, legal work and leadership development. 

Has been named as ‘Top 40 Progressive Leaders in America’ in 2010 by New Leaders Council, honored by Atlanta Business Chronicle as ‘Top Up & Comers’ in 2007, Georgia Trend’s "40 under 40" and named “Outstanding Atlanta” honoree of the year. 

Navneet has been looked up to help in global development and create innovative solutions for world’s most pressing issues and been selected as prestigious American Marshall Memorial Fellow, Asia21 Fellow, Aspen Institute Fellow, New Leaders Council Fellow, Fuse Corps Fellow and Starting Bloc Fellow

As the Founder of EMPOWER Punjab; he is in works to launch an innovative social enterprise that empowers hundreds of women in rural India to lift themselves out of poverty, many of whom cope with HIV/AIDS; suffer from psychological trauma; have little formal education; care for several children and are the sole providers for their households.

Narula has been invited to White House on numerous occasions discussing civil liberty, human rights and community advocacy issues. He meets with US senators frequently to bridge gaps between law makers and local citizens in policy making initiatives. 

For his community service, Narula was awarded Community Change Visionary award, recognized with Seva Leadership Award by Sikh Centennial foundation, won Guru Nanak Benediction Award in New York and awarded the first Corporate Citizenship Volunteer of the Year by Accenture.

 As a global leadership expert, he is invited frequently to give keynote speeches and inspired thousands including speaking at UN Forums, World Bank, German Marshall Fund, UC Berkley, Emory, Michigan State University, Home Depot, Accenture, UPS, NAAAP, United Way & many more. He has been profiled in major newspapers and appeared on major media such as - CNN, CBS, NBC, Omni TV, Forbes etc

Navneet graduated from Stanford Graduate School of Business and has Global Executive MBA from Georgetown University and studied foreign policy and international development at Walsh School of Foreign Service, graduated from University of Georgia’s Fanning Institute of Leadership, graduated from Cornell University’s Executive Program on Diversity Management and studied at ESADE School of Business and Michigan State University. 

Navneet is a former internationally ranked tennis player and played NCAA Division 1 tennis at Michigan State University, where he also sits as Board of Directors.  He has traveled to over 87 countries and speaks 5 languages.

Some of his global accomplishments are: 

·            Selected by the premier Consulting magazine, as Top 30 Consultants in America 2008.
·            Selected as Top 40 Progressive American Leaders by New Leaders Council, in 2011
·            Selected by German Marshall Fund as the  “American Marshall Memorial Fellow” 2008
·            Recognized as Best MIS & IT Executive at International Business Awards 2007
·            Humbled with the Humanitarian of the Year Award 2006 by Minorities in Business Foundation.
·            Honored by Secy of State, Hillary Clinton as Outstanding 50 Asian Americans in Business 2006
·            Chosen as the Global Leadership Fellow for the Asia Pacific Leadership Program 2009
·            Recognized by Georgia Trend as Top 40 Under 40 - Best and Brightest Leaders in America 2008.
·            Selected to Asia Society’s Prestigious Asia 21 “Young Leaders Initiative” 2008 at Tokyo
·            Selected as “Outstanding Atlantan” of the year 2008 – Atlanta’s Top Community Honor 
·            Honored as Atlanta’s Journal Constitution's "Top Up & Comers" 2007 
·            First & only person to be selected on all lists of Georgia's Top Leaders
·            Selected to Leadership Georgia - to build policies with elected officials and top businessmen
·            Selected to Leadership Atlanta - country’s longest running community leadership program 2009
·            At the age of just 29, he was the youngest Leader to be selected to Leadership Atlanta Program 
·            Awarded Community Change Visionary award for building a stronger South Asian Community
·            Selected as the Best Finance Executive 2007 in New York, at the American Business Awards
·            Recognized by Apex Society as Power 30 Award 2008 – America’s top thirty young leaders
·            Honored Seva Leadership Award 2007 by Prime Minister of Canada at Centennial Foundation
·            Honored with Michigan State University’s Distinguished Alumni Achievement Award 2007
·            Won Accenture’s top honor - Corporate Citizenship - Volunteer Service Award winner
·            Honored with Guru Nanak Benediction Award for exemplary humanitarian services


Below are a few of the organizations where he has advised and currently serves:

·                     National Board of Directors – Eli Broad School of Business, Michigan State University 
·                     Global Board of Trustees -  The Global Diversity Network 
·                     Board of Directors – The National Center for Global Engagement  www.nc4ge.org
·                     Board of Directors – People to People International Atlanta  www.ptpiatlanta.org
·                     Elected Stakeholder  - at Connect Atlanta World Transportation Plan
·                     Board of Directors –The Civic League for Regional Atlanta  
·                     Board of Directors – National Association of Asian American Professionals (Atlanta) 
·                     Board of Directors  - MSU Alumni Club of Atlanta www.msuaatlanta.org
·                     Board of Advisors  – The Giving Tree – help foster kids who have suffered abuse.
·                     Advisor & Innovation Consultant – Points of Light Institute – www.pointsoflight.org 
·                     Asian American Advisory Council  - United Way
·                     Executive Advisor – Network of Indian Professionals  - www.netipatlanta.org
·                     Member – United Nations – Young Professionals for International Cooperation (YPIC)


    Tuesday, November 24, 2009

    White House Invitation - Meeting Indian Prime Minister, Manmohan Singh

    November 24th, 2009 @ the Beautiful Benjamin Franklin State Room. VIP Luncheon in Honor of His Excellency Dr. Manmohan Singh, Prime Minister of India, hosted by Vice President Dr. Joe Biden and Secy of State Madame Hillary Clinton.



    VP Joe Biden and Secy of State Hillary Clinton Welcome Indian Delegation



    Reconnecting with Joe ---celebrating Indian Americans success, building trust and sharing strives of Sikh community, pushing for empowering non-profits to leading the 'change' we all seek.



    The Man, the Legend, Mr. CEO - Ratan Tata



    In Conversation with Mrs. Manmohan Singh



    The Feast...Main Course included Sun Dried Tomato Crusted Sea Bass, Haricort Verts and Toasted Couscous with Grilled Zucchini, Red Onion and Finnel. Yums!







    Prime Minister Manmohan Singh sharing his views briefly on Indo-US Relationship


    Two seconds after meeting Prime Minister Singh...sharing the blazing success of Sikh Americans in US, in contrast to the continued struggles we still face with New Delhi's genocidal policies (1984 pogroms) and requesting his direct intervention with French President Sarkozy on France's Turban ban and other religious articles of faith.



    Fareed Zakaria, one of the most intelligent, poised man I know, having a comprehensive outlook on foreign affairs. His ability to articulate the most complex global issues into simple terms and then bringing new ideas and innovative approaches to helping solve worlds toughest problems is impressive.


    With Senator Joe Lieberman












    Wednesday, October 28, 2009

    Consulting Magazine Honors Navneet Singh Narula as Top 30 Consultants in America

    The Next Generation of Consultants

    Originally Published on -
    1 28 2008

    It's easy, almost too easy, for one generation to criticize the next. Poking fun at your predecessors is a tradition that goes back at least several generations. We've all heard the stereotypes of this next generation of workers; some of those stereotypes are probably accurate, some of them are not. Here's our take: From a business perspective, this generation is far and away superior to anything that's come before it. When we set out to find the rising stars of consulting, we had no idea what we were in for. Frankly, we were blown away by the quality of the 300 or so nominations we received for this, our inaugural 30 Under 30 award. With so many qualified, or perhaps even overqualified applicants, we struggled to narrow down the field down to just 30.

    It's hard to believe that just a few years ago (and in some cases even more recently than that), the consultants on the following pages were getting out of school and preparing to set the world on fire. And guess what? They have. This year's class includes a founder of his own firm, an interim CFO, a consultant with a 164 percent utilization rate and one who began with her firm at the age of 20. Indeed, this group is changing the world— your world. And even if you don't work with them, you likely have seen the indirect effects of their work in your everyday life. That is, if you drive a car, take a prescription medication, use a computer or have been to a retail store lately.

    And, in keeping true to this generation's ideals, all of them are standouts in their local communities—whether it's doing volunteer work, competing in Ironman competitions or running political campaigns. So read on to learn about the talent we've uncovered. And pay attention, we may all end working for one of them one day.

    ___________________________________________________________________

    Navneet Singh Narula, Management Executive, Accenture NAVNEET SINGH NARULA - Accenture - Management Executive

    Navneet Singh Narula has accomplished much in his 29 years—not just professionally, but for the world. A consultant in Accenture's financial services practice who specializes in systems integration and technology for mergers and acquisitions, Narula has advised many of Wall Street's heavy hitters. He also serves as the chief diversity lead at Accenture's Michigan practice and co-leads the Asian Americans Committed to Excellence diversity group in Atlanta.

    But Narula's commitment to excellence knows no borders. As the director of humanitarian relief and community empowerment at UNITED SIKHS, he has participated in, and in some cases led the formation of, schools and relief shelters throughout the world. He also aided in disaster relief in India, New Orleans and Kashmir. The 30 Under 30 distinction is one of many for Narula, who was honored by Sen. Clinton as one of 2006's Outstanding 50 Asian Americans in Business. He's also received distinctions from the Minorities in Business Foundation and the American Business Awards, among others.

    His long-term plan focuses on balance. "I hope to become an effective individual, a catalyst for a better living, a simple, fun, family man and a top leader at a world-class organization or a tycoon businessman. Most importantly, I pray for self-contentment, a healthy lifestyle, and a happy, secure life surrounded by my loved ones.”

    Monday, January 15, 2007

    National Asian American Network Profile

    SPOTLIGHT on Executive

    Meet Navneet Singh Narula (Neet), an executive in Financial Services out of our Atlanta office. Aside from the fact that his name is an alliteration, Navneet is far from your ordinary high performer. An All-American scholar and athlete at Michigan State, he was recruited to play NCAA tennis with some of the nations best. As an analyst, he became a diversity lead for the Michigan practice, working directly under our Chief Diversity Officer Kedrick Adkins and today serves Atlanta’s Asian Americans Committed to Excellence (AACE) diversity group.

    He has since been honored by Hillary Clinton as one of the youngest corporate executives for the ‘Outstanding 50 Asian Americans in Business’, awarded the Corporate Citizenship – Volunteer Service Award by Accenture, honored with the Community Change Visionary award by the Governor of Georgia, and recently famed with the Global Humanitarian Award by the Minorities in Business Foundation, and this is just to name a few things.

    Navneet was largely recognized for his 6 month dedication to serving the community and world at large in the wake of recent natural disasters. He spent months and was instrumental in providing rehabilitation to the victims of hurricane Katrina by opening up relief shelters and providing free food services, his impact was tremendous as he gave three months of significant time in helping human life in the aftermaths of tsunami disaster and recently was in Southeast Asia to provide earthquake relief. With support from Accenture’s management, he used up his entire PTO, and dedicated many long nights and weekends – he served full time in these areas, all while managing his project and client responsibilities. Oh, and did I mention, that he has pledged to support 3 orphaned children from Tsunami, Katrina and India/Pakistan earthquake disaster by providing aid for education, food, school expenses?

    Asked about what he gained from these experiences, he responded that he was given a new perspective on life. He remembered the words of Martin Luther King and shared “It’s a simple thing – Every single one of us can be great, because every single one of us can SERVE”. While most of us may be just alive, Navneet is truly living. He has realized that he has a bigger reason in life and that he is here to give back to the children and those who suffer in the world. Navneet has succeeded in his career and recognized his way of life, despite any differences in cultural backgrounds, he was able to contribute and help others, and define himself.

    Narula said, “I am humbled for what I have experienced and truly feel a blessed man, I have nothing to complain about in life and I simply wish to give as nothing is rightly mine, I hope to become a good human being, some day."

    He finds that Accenture offers so many opportunities to do amazing things, and encourages everyone to find their calling. He closed by saying, “Accenture is a great place to be at and we must continue to be different and stand out for what we believe is right. I am proud to be of Asian American heritage and believe we all can make a difference. We must go above and beyond because, to be exceptional in life, one must be the exception”.

    For more info – Contact Kevin T. Toda

    Wednesday, December 20, 2006

    MIB - Humanitarian Award

    "Embracing Diversity Through Global Standards"
    Hosted by Minorities In Business Foundation, Inc.December 10, 2006


    Dear Mr. Narula:

    The Minorities In Business Foundation, Inc. would like to extend a warm heartfelt congratulation to you, Mr. Navneet Singh Narula, on your selection for the bestowed “Humanitarian Award” at The Multicultural Prism Awards™ 2006. The Multicultural Prism Awards™ gala is an esteemed event that recognizes exceptional achievements by entrepreneurs and corporate executives in various categories, highlighting the exceptional visionary and inspirational work of minorities as well as their philanthropic endeavors in non-governmental, intercontinental, global, and multicultural relations.

    This year we will share our vision with the world achievers, who are making their mark on global front by creating awareness of diversity and challenging all of us to go beyond our comfort zones. We are honoring those special leaders who are impacting the world through their talent, passion, commitment, work ethic, and integrity. It is these stellar individuals who have made an impact in the multicultural community that will take center stage and stand among the nations most prolific pioneers.

    We are very proud to honor you with our special “Humanitarian Award” recognizing your philanthropic pilgrimage and humanitarian efforts in leading through the worlds biggest disasters. Your adoption of orphanages in South India during Tsunami, helping build schools and computer institutes to promote education during S.E East Asia earthquake, and leading with rescue efforts and opening of relief shelters in New Orleans in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina is unfathomable and admirable. We applaud you especially on your lasting commitment of this non-profit work, especially towards the children of the world that were affected by natural disasters. The foundation also recognizes your business achievements and success for your outstanding leadership in the corporate world. You are truly a role model for all minorities.

    The 11th Annual Multicultural Prism Awards™ will be held on Sunday, December 10, 2006 and will spotlight other notable achievements and successes for celebrities, politicians, corporate executives, and entrepreneurs who make strides in building positive international and multicultural community developments. The show serves as the primary vehicle for the promotion and recognition of corporate leadership in diversity. By providing a platform for the celebration of excellence in diversity, the Prism Awards allow corporations the rare opportunity to communicate their message directly to an audience that cares intensely about the subject.

    We, at Minorities In Business Foundation, Inc. commend your eminent bravery and leadership in all of your humanitarian endeavors and are honored that the “Humanitarian Award” will raise awareness of minorities in business and further allow everyone to be inspired to help communities globally.

    Congratulations again! We hope for a positive reply of your acceptance of the award by October 20th and would like to request you in advance to submit your complete biography for the committee’s review by Monday, October 30, 2006.

    Respectfully,


    Cynthia Butler-Hayden
    Executive Producer/Founder
    Minorities In Business (MIB) Foundation, Inc.
    11th Annual Multicultural Prism Awards

    Wednesday, September 20, 2006

    Humanitarian Experiences

    “I shall pass through this world but once. Any good thing therefore that I can do, or any kindness that I can show to any human being, let me do it now. Let me not defer it or neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again.”


    Navneet (Neet) Singh Narula spends time in disaster zones and dangerous areas for “Sarbat Da Bhala,” which means “welfare of all humanity” in Punjabi. Neet is pictured with children affected by the Southeast Asia tsunami in Great Nicobar Islands, India.

    Navneet (Neet) Singh Narula, executive-Financial Services, has adopted French philosopher Etienne de Grellet’s words of wisdom in his daily life. In the aftermath of the tsunami in Southeast Asia, Hurricane Katrina and earthquakes in Kashmir and Pakistan, Neet has made it a personal mission to help the children and the poor who are suffering in the wake of natural disasters.

    “I sincerely believe that there is a bigger reason of why I was born and if along the way of finding out that reason, I can help one person, then this life truly is well-lived,” Neet said.

    Neet embarked on his first philanthropic pilgrimage with the United Sikhs, a non-profit, non-governmental civil liberties and humanitarian relief organization, by helping with tsunami relief operations in Southeast Asia. For three months in 2005, Neet helped manage the South India and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands operations by helping with rescue operations, building new homes, preparing food for survivor camps and procuring and distributing supplies.

    Setting him apart from many volunteers, Neet remains committed to the community even after non-governmental organizations depart. Currently, Neet manages the operations of an orphanage in South India, ensuring all educational and personal needs of the children affected by the tsunami are met. He also runs a free computer institute to promote literacy and education to all residents of Great Nicobar Islands. Additionally, Neet has made a personal commitment to support two orphaned children by providing them both with a lifelong education.

    “Just like everyone, I did my part of contributing financially and helping out with the food and clothes drives,” Neet said. “However, I felt there was more that I needed to do on a human level. I feel blessed with the life I have lived, but I feel I must help the millions who are in pain to the best of my ability.”

    Soon after Hurricane Katrina struck the US Gulf Coast, Neet led a team of Red Cross and Federal Emergency Management Agency volunteers in opening relief shelters for Katrina survivors. He has vowed to visit New Orleans once a year to visit a school he helped establish for displaced children.

    When an earthquake devastated the Kashmir region of Pakistan in October 2005, Neet once again was on the ground doing his part to help both Indians and Pakistanis. In Bagh, Pakistan, Neet assisted with the “Fill a School Bag Appeal,” in which children from other countries assemble schoolbags filled with books, candy, toys and stationary. He also pioneered a computer institute in Poonch, Kashmir to provide free education for children and certification training for adults.

    As a result of his business leadership and corporate citizenship action in humanitarian efforts both home and abroad, Neet was recently honored by New York Senator Hillary Clinton as one of the Outstanding 50 Asian Americans in Business Award for his contributions to both the business and philanthropic communities in the United States and around the world.

    For more info – Contact Karen A. Forsling or visit - https://portal.accenture.com/News/people/narula.htm