Pillai Institute of Management Studies and Research partnered with Soroptimist International Bombay Chembur to organise the Soroptimist Excellence Award on the occasion of International Women’s Day on 7th March, 2024. The Soroptimist Excellence Award 2024 was conferred on Ms. Sumaira Abdulali, Founder of Awaaz Foundation.
The award carries a citation, a trophy and a donation by SIBC to the foundation. Ms. Sumaira Abdulali is an environmentalist from Mumbai, India, and founder of the NGO Awaaz Foundation as well as a convenor of the Movement against Intimidation, Threat and Revenge against Activists (MITRA). Awaaz Foundation is a non governmental organization working on the environment, particularly noise pollution and sand mining. Ms. Abdulali has put in pioneering efforts in combating noise pollution and eradication of sand mining for safeguarding the environment exemplifies the true spirit of environmental stewardship. Through her NGO Awaaz Foundation, legal interventions, advocacy, debates and press articles she has built consciousness about environmental hazards. Her visionary leadership has shaped policy, raised awareness and catalyzed action in pursuit of a quieter, healthier world. Ms. Abdulali accepted the award at the hands of SIBC Founder President, Dr. Daphne Pillai, accompanied by SIBC member Ms. Munawira Kotyad. The award ceremony was held at Dr. K. M. Vasudevan Pillai Campus, Panvel and was attended by the members of SIBC, faculty members and students of PiMSR among others. Ms. Abdulali addressed the gathering and inspired them by sharing insights about the working of Awaaz Foundation. 50 students and 40 faculty members from Dr. K. M. Vasudevan Pillai Campus attended the session. The program was coordinated by Dr. Celina Joy (Past President of SIBC and Faculty member at PiMSR).
