Inspiring Others by Making a Difference
Sonu Ratra is co-founder and president of Akraya, Inc., a staffing company headquartered in Santa Clara, California. Her story is truly inspiring. She arrived in the United States 20 years ago after quitting a job at the largest consulting organization in India. She had two suitcases, $50 in her pocket and a dream to build a better future.
“I learned that life has great surprises in store for you when you don’t fear the unknown,” Ratra said.
Today, Akraya, Inc. has a presence in seven countries, an offshore location in India, Fortune 500 customers, and a loyal employee base. This year, Ratra launched Women Back to Work, a workforce re-entry program that aims to solve two key problems that companies encounter: lack of gender diversity and highly skilled, experienced talent. The program is a free service for women providing a platform to re-join the workforce after a long hiatus.
Ratra serves on the board of directors at the Institute of Economic Empowerment for Women as part of her initiatives to champion peace through business in Afghanistan and Rwanda. Earlier this year, she was appointed to serve on a delegation in Rwanda, Africa.
Among her numerous professional activities, she’s also active with the Astra Steam Summit where she inspires girls between the ages of 12 and 17 to pursue their dreams. Working closely with the Western Regional Minority Supplier Development Council and the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council, she’s accountable for building and empowering diverse suppliers, and arming business owners with the strategies and tools necessary to grow their companies. She is the recipient of a variety of awards for her extensive efforts in diversity and executive leadership.
“I am fortunate to work with the most amazing Akraya team to build a great company,” Ratra said. “I have the responsibility and the opportunity to give back to the society, community, and our environment.”
Ratra’s educational background includes Symbiosis University | MPM, Human Resource Management; Tata Institute of Social Sciences | MS, Social Sciences; University of California, Los Angeles – The Anderson School of Management | MDE; The Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth | Tuck Executive Education.
Her career is spawned by passion, perseverance and panache. Her story is one of a young Indian girl who’s lived the American dream.
