In today’s world, where conversations around equality, representation, and empowerment have gained global momentum, few leaders embody these ideals as powerfully as Rita Kakati-Shah. An award-winning gender, diversity, and inclusion strategist, Rita is more than a thought leader—she is a movement in herself. With her unique blend of corporate experience, entrepreneurial vision, and cultural depth, Rita has built a global reputation as a speaker, mentor, advisor, and changemaker dedicated to empowering women and minorities.
Rita Kakati-Shah: A Journey Shaped by Determination and Purpose
Rita’s professional career began at Goldman Sachs in London, where she was recognized with the Excellence in Citizenship and Diversity Award for her exceptional contributions to inclusivity and corporate citizenship. This early honor set the tone for her lifelong mission: to create pathways where talent is recognized beyond barriers of gender, race, or circumstance.
Her journey then took her into the healthcare industry, where she led global business development in CNS healthcare. Yet, it was during her own transition into motherhood and entrepreneurship that Rita noticed a gap—the lack of structured support for women and minorities seeking to return to or advance in their careers.
This personal realization became the spark for Uma, the global platform she founded to empower professionals navigating transitions, build confidence, and challenge societal norms. The name “Uma,” inspired by the Hindu goddess who symbolizes strength and courage, reflects the spirit behind Rita’s mission—fearless pursuit of potential.
Uma – A Vision of Empowerment
At the heart of Rita’s work through Uma lies a clear vision: to empower unshakeable confidence, inspire success, and build leadership resilience in women and minorities worldwide. Through coaching, mentoring, keynote talks, and strategic corporate partnerships, Uma provides the tools and strategies needed to navigate professional transitions and rise to leadership roles.
In Rita’s own words, Uma is not just a company but a movement that dares to question the status quo. It is a space where women re-entering the workforce, minorities facing systemic barriers, or professionals seeking new horizons can find both empowerment and direction.
Rita Kakati-Shah: A Global Voice for Diversity and Inclusion
Rita’s influence transcends industries and borders. As a keynote speaker and advisor to Fortune 500 companies, she addresses audiences at world-renowned platforms such as UNESCO in Paris, the European Parliament in Brussels, and academic institutions across New York, London, Madrid, Delhi, Toronto, and more. Her insights on gender equality, entrepreneurship, leadership, and inclusion resonate deeply with leaders, students, and policymakers alike.
She also actively mentors veterans, survivors of domestic violence, young women in STEM, and schoolchildren—making her advocacy both broad in reach and personal in impact.
Honors and Recognition
The recognition Rita has received across her career speaks volumes of her impact. Among her many accolades are:
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President’s Lifetime Achievement Award from US President Joe Biden.
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Honorary Doctorate of Humanities from Commonwealth University.
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Triple Stevie Award Winner for Women in Business, and a judge for the Middle East Awards.
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Distinguished Alumna of King’s College London, where she continues to mentor and serve on advisory councils.
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Numerous global awards honoring her dedication to gender equality, diversity, inclusion, and empowerment.
These honors not only validate her efforts but also amplify her voice as one of the leading advocates of equity on the world stage.
Media, Books, and Beyond
Beyond boardrooms and conferences, Rita is also a TV show host, media contributor, and bestselling author. She hosts The Uma Show on Mana TV International, where she curates conversations around empowerment and leadership for a global South Asian audience.
Her bestselling book, The Goddess of Go-Getting, has become a guide for those seeking courage and clarity in their professional journeys. She has also co-authored works on women in business, entrepreneurship, and diversity, reinforcing her role as both a thinker and doer in the space of inclusion.
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