Alok Kumar Sharma : In a world that hungers for visionary leaders, Sir Alok Kumar Sharma KCMG stands tall as an exemplary figure of dedication, leadership, and unwavering commitment to addressing one of the most pressing challenges of our time – climate change. His journey from humble beginnings in Agra, India, to serving as the President for COP26 and receiving the prestigious Knight Commander of the Order of St Michael and St George (KCMG) award in 2023 for services to tackling climate change, is a testament to his inspirational life and career.
Early Life and Grounded Beginnings of Alok Kumar
Born on September 7, 1967, in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India, Alok Kumar Sharma’s life took a transformative turn when his family relocated to Reading, United Kingdom, when he was just five years old. With a strong Hindu upbringing, Alok was instilled with values that would shape his future endeavours.
His father, Prem Sharma, played a pivotal role in local Conservative politics and even chaired the Berkshire area of Conservatives. His dedication eventually led to the establishment of the Conservative Friends of India. This early exposure to politics and public service laid the foundation for Alok’s future contributions to society.
Growing up in the suburbs of Reading, particularly in Earley and Whitley Wood, Alok Kumar received his education at Presentation College and Reading Blue Coat School in Sonning. His academic journey continued at the University of Salford, where he graduated with a BSc in Applied Physics with Electronics in 1988.
With a thirst for knowledge and a determination to excel, Alok Kumar went on to become a chartered accountant, honing his skills at Deloitte Haskins & Sells in Manchester. He then ventured into corporate finance advisory with Nikko Securities, followed by a significant role at the Swedish Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken. Alok’s expertise in cross-border mergers and acquisitions, listings, and restructurings would later prove invaluable in his political career.
A Distinguished Political Career
Alok Kumar Sharma’s journey into the realm of politics began when he was selected as the Conservative Party candidate for the Reading West constituency in 2006. His resounding victory in the 2010 general election marked the commencement of his parliamentary career, representing the people of Reading West.
Over the years, Alok continued to secure the trust of his constituents, winning re-elections in 2015 and 2019, with increasing majorities. His commitment to his hometown and his dedication to serving the needs of his constituents have always been at the forefront of his political journey.
In addition to his role as an MP, Alok Kumar Sharma took on various responsibilities within the Conservative Party, including serving as the Vice-Chairman from 2012 to 2015 and co-chairing Conservative Friends of India in 2014. His diverse experience allowed him to contribute significantly to the party’s development.
A pivotal moment in Alok’s career came in 2019 when he was appointed as the Secretary of State for International Development by Prime Minister Boris Johnson. In this role, he played a crucial part in steering the UK’s aid efforts towards addressing global challenges, with a focus on climate change, sustainable economies, and women’s rights.
A significant promotion followed in 2020, when Alok Kumar Sharma was appointed as the Secretary of State for Business, Energy, and Industrial Strategy. His tenure coincided with the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, during which he played a key role in the government’s daily pandemic briefings, offering guidance and reassurance to the nation.
Leading the Charge Against Climate Change
One of Alok Kumar Sharma’s most remarkable achievements was his appointment as the President of the 2021 United Nations Climate Change Conference, known as COP26. Under his leadership, the Glasgow Climate Pact was negotiated, setting a new course for global efforts to combat climate change.
Alok Kumar Sharma & Dedication
Alok’s dedication to the cause was evident when, on January 8, 2021, he transitioned from his role as Secretary of State to serve as the President of COP26 full-time, chairing the Climate Action Implementation Committee. His unwavering commitment to the UK’s net-zero targets during the Conservative Party leadership election in 2022 showcased his steadfast resolve in the fight against climate change.
As a result of his exceptional contributions, Alok Kumar Sharma was appointed Knight Commander of the Order of St Michael and St George (KCMG) in the 2023 New Year Honours, a well-deserved recognition of his dedication to tackling climate change.
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