Mumbai alumni event: The future of evolving Indian leadership in a fast changing world

Explore how Indian leaders can navigate a fast-changing world with alumni panellists Anvita Arora, Debashis Das and Nishita Mantry.

Register for our Mumbai alumni event.

Join us for an engaging and thought-provoking alumni event in Mumbai on Saturday 28 February 2026, featuring an alumni panel with Anvita Arora (MA Advertising and Marketing, 2016), Debashis Das (MBA Business Administration, 2010) and Nishita Mantry (MA Advertising and Marketing, 2008). This discussion will explore the future challenges confronting Indian leaders and discuss how leadership culture in India needs to evolve to respond effectively in an increasingly complex global environment.

Hosted by Masoud Golshan-Shirazi, Associate Professor in Global Leadership, who combines academic insight with over 40 years of global business experience. Masoud has held senior leadership roles across multiple industries - including energy, telecom, banking, FMCG, retail, and manufacturing - in companies such as Coca-Cola, Vodafone, BT & EE, and Ericsson. He has also founded his own business, managed large-scale transformations, and continues to work as a business consultant, bringing a current practitioner’s perspective on leadership.

The session will offer an interactive and reflective conversation on leadership in the Indian context. Together with Anvita, Debashis and Nishita, Masoud will delve into emerging economic, social, and organisational challenges, considering how values, mindsets, and leadership practices need to adapt to drive sustainable success.

The discussion will be followed by networking and refreshments, offering the opportunity to reconnect with fellow alumni and Leeds University Business School offer holders, share memories of Leeds, exchange ideas, and explore potential collaborations and business opportunities in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. You will also have the opportunity to network with Catherine Thristan, Director of External Engagement (Partnerships and Executive Education), during the event.

Event Schedule
19:30 - Registration
20:00 - The future of evolving Indian leadership in a fast changing world
21:00 - Networking and Refreshments
22:00 – Close

There is a £5 charge (£6.13 with Eventbrite fees), around 654 INR for the event. Every ticket helps fund initiatives that enhance student opportunities at the Business School. 

Event places are limited and will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis. This event is open to Leeds University Business School alumni only.

If you would like any more information about the event or have any questions, please contact the Leeds University Business School Alumni Team (alumni@lubs.leeds.ac.uk).

Don't miss out on this opportunity to gain valuable insights, expand your professional network, and reconnect with the Business School alumni community.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Meet the panel

Anvita Arora
MA Advertising and Marketing, 2016
Anvita Arora has fourteen years of experience navigating the full spectrum of the brand world, shaping award-winning campaigns for global names such as Volkswagen, Spotify, Netflix, and Bumble, as well as iconic Indian brands including, Mahindra, Raymond, and Kotak.

She began her career analysing data at Yahoo before moving into content at the Tribune Media Services, ultimately realising that the most powerful stories are not just written - they’re sold. This insight led her to Ogilvy, where she honed the craft and strategy of advertising, expanded business at 22feet Tribal Worldwide, scaled Supari Studios through innovative partnerships, and most recently led a creative unit at Creativeland Asia before returning to 22Feet Tribal Worldwide to lead the Mumbai office.

Her work has earned over 30 industry accolades, including Kyoorius, EFFIES, Spikes, and LIA awards, reflecting her dedication to creativity that delivers measurable business impact. Recognition on the IMPACT 30 Under 30 list further underscores her consistent contributions to the industry from early in her career.

As a leader, Anvita believes creativity thrives at the intersection of heart and hustle. Outside of work, she is kept grounded by her dog, Nyx, and finds inspiration in solo travel and diving, a reminder of a world beyond advertising.

Debashis Das
MBA Business Administration, 2010
Debashis Das is a dedicated professional at Medtronic, recognised for his expertise and commitment to advancing healthcare solutions. Trained as a medical doctor and an MBA graduate from Leeds University Business School, he brings over two decades of experience in the healthcare industry.

With a strong background in medical technology and a passion for innovation, Debashis has contributed to numerous initiatives focused on improving patient outcomes. He is also closely associated with the Ministry of Science & Technology, Government of India, where he supports the country’s MedTech start-up ecosystem.

Outside of work, Debashis enjoys staying active, exploring emerging technologies, and contributing to community initiatives.

Nishita Mantry
MA Advertising and Marketing, 2008
Nishita Mantry is a business consultant, market research analyst and marketing strategist who works closely with founders and women entrepreneurs to help them build, scale and reposition their businesses.

With over a decade of experience spanning brand strategy, consumer insights and go-to-market planning, she specialises in turning ideas into structured, revenue-driven ventures. She is the Co-Founder of Peach Collar, a women-led business networking and learning platform designed to foster meaningful connections and practical growth.

Through her consulting work, workshops and community initiatives, Nishita is passionate about empowering entrepreneurs with clarity, confidence and strategic direction.