Hello. I am Sunoor Verma, an international development and humanitarian expert who is driven by a passion to make a lasting difference. I have worked with some of the world’s most impactful organisations, including WHO, UNICEF, UNHCR, UN Women, and Cambridge University, advising them on strategy, leadership communication, advocacy, and resource mobilisation.

I have spearheaded initiatives in Southeast Europe for the European Centre for Minority Issues, supported peacebuilding efforts in Macedonia, Kosovo, and Sri Lanka, and navigated emergency responses to crises like Tsunamis, Bird flu, and COVID-19.

What excites me is building partnerships and complex coalitions. Over the years, I’ve cultivated collaborations with parliamentarians in countries like Malaysia, Kosovo, Germany, and Australia, bringing together diverse voices to foster positive social change. As Executive Director, I helped position the Geneva Health Forum as a global leader in health policy dialogue. For five years, I was honoured to teach global health at Boston University.

Education, especially for girls, is a cause that is very close to my heart. As series editor of the “Namaste” collection, I have worked to bring inspiring stories from the Global South to light.

Before all of this, I was a cardiothoracic surgeon. That experience still shapes my work today—it taught me how to act with precision, stay calm under pressure, and never lose sight of the bigger picture.

Consultant, Not Contractor

I specialise in consulting, not contracting. I focus on adding value—launching new projects or transforming existing ones. I am here to help shape strategy, not just fill a resource gap.

Moderator, Not MC

I thrive on moderating high-stakes, thought-provoking discussions. My goal is always to serve the audience and ensure they get the most out of the debate. I prepare thoroughly, often more than the panellists, and aim to create authentic dialogue—not just entertainment.

Producer, Not Replicator

I produce forward-thinking documentaries on leadership, philanthropy, and other solution-oriented topics. These films, shot in Singapore, Australia, and India, are part of my consulting firm’s social responsibility initiative, “Go! Inspire.”

Personal Philosophy

My guiding principle is that where you start is just that—a start. My journey from cardiothoracic surgery to humanitarian work reflects my belief in the power of collaboration, strategic thinking, and interconnectedness to drive real impact.

Values

Connection: I build meaningful partnerships across sectors to create lasting change.

Innovation: I believe in forward-thinking strategies and using every challenge as an opportunity.

Initiative: Sharing knowledge and sparking inspiration is core to who I am.

Philanthropy: I advocate for marginalised communities by telling their stories and working for social justice.