Megha Singh Nandiwal is a remarkable individual whose leadership spans across two very different yet deeply interconnected worlds—artificial intelligence and human rights. As the Vice President of Strategic Operations at Foundation AI (FAI), a US-based AI company, Megha leads with a passion for innovation and the well-being of the people behind the organization. At the same time, she serves as the National Vice President of the World Human Rights Protection Commission (WHRPC), where she advocates for marginalized groups and fights for justice in her home country of India. In this candid interview, Megha shares her insights on leadership, human rights, and the driving force behind her dual commitment to both fields.
Q: Megha, you wear many hats. Can you tell us about your role at Foundation AI and how you balance it with your work in human rights advocacy?
Megha Singh Nandiwal: Thank you for the question. As Vice President of Strategic Operations at Foundation AI, I manage a global team and help shape the long-term strategy of the company. My role is to ensure that we not only innovate but also create a positive and empowering work environment for our people. It ruly believe that every problem in FAI is my problem, and every success is our shared success.
At the same time, I am deeply passionate about human rights, and that passion has led me to my work with the World Human Rights Protection Commission (WHRPC). The two roles complement each other in many ways. Both require leadership, empathy, and a focus on people. At Foundation AI, I am committed to helping people grow and succeed in a dynamic environment, while at WHRPC, my goal is to fight for justice and ensure the voice less have a platform. Both are connected by my core belief in fairness, equity, and human dignity.
Q: It’s clear that people are central to your leadership approach. Can you explain how that philosophy impacts your work at Foundation AI?
Megha Singh Nandiwal: Absolutely. For me, it’s always been about the people. At Foundation AI, we foster a culture where collaboration and inclusivity are key. I don’t just manage operations; I actively work to ensure that every person in the organization feels valued and empowered to succeed. My team’s success is my success. When people are motivated and supported, they are more likely to be innovative and contribute meaningfully. This philosophy drives me to be a hands-on leader, offering support when needed but also providing the space for people to grow independently.
I carry this mindset into my work in human rights too. When advocating for those who are oppressed, it’s crucial to put people at the center of the conversation. Their voices need to be heard, and their rights must be protected. Whether in a corporate setting or human rights advocacy, the fundamental goal is always the same: to create an environment where people can thrive and reach their full potential.
Q: You’ve been an outspoken advocate for human rights in India, especially in relation to religious and ethnic minorities. What are the most alarming trends you’ve observed in the country?
Megha Singh Nandiwal: India, as a democratic country, holds great promise, but in recent years, we have witnessed a growing crisis in human rights, particularly concerning religious minorities and marginalized communities. The rise in communal violence, especially in regions like Manipur and Jammu and Kashmir, is deeply concerning. There has been an alarming increase in attacks on Muslims, Dalits, and tribal communities, alongside systematic attempts to suppress freedom of expression. In Manipur, ethnic violence has led to significant loss of life and displacement, and yet the state and central governments have failed to act swiftly or effectively.
What is equally troubling is the increasing impunity for those in power and security forces when it comes to crimes against minorities. We see a pattern where perpetrators are rarely held accountable, and in some cases, the government even exacerbates tensions by failing to take meaningful action. The situation in Jammu and Kashmir is particularly dire, where journalists, activists, and political dissenters face continuous threats and arbitrary detention.
Q: Given your passion for both people-centered leadership in the corporate world and advocacy for human rights, how do you maintain consistency and motivation?
Megha Singh Nandiwal: That’s a great question. I’m led by passion, not by duty. This is what keeps me going. When you’re passionate about something, whether it’s helping your team succeed in a corporate environment or fighting for human rights, it feels less like an obligation and more like a calling. The work I do can be magical at times—when you see a change happen or when a voice that was once silent is finally heard.
However, consistency is challenging. The road to change is long and often discouraging. When you face resistance, or when setbacks occur, it can be emotionally draining. But my passion keeps me motivated. I’ve learned that it’s not just about the outcome—it’s about the journey. Yes, the work is difficult, and sometimes it feels like progress is slow. But I stay committed because I believe in the possibility of real change, even when the hurdles seem insurmountable.
Q: How do you envision technology, especially AI, being used to address human rights issues? Can AI be a force for good in this field?
Megha Singh Nandiwal: Absolutely. AI has immense potential to assist in human rights advocacy. At Foundation AI, we are focused on creating technology that not only pushes the boundaries of innovation but also serves humanity. AI tools can be incredibly effective in documenting human rights violations, for example. By analyzing satellite imagery or social media posts, AI can help track incidents of violence, identify patterns of abuse, and provide crucial evidence to support human rights investigations.
Additionally, AI can be used to improve the transparency of justice systems, monitor electoral integrity, and even create more inclusive platforms for marginalized voices. The key is to ensure that the technology is developed and deployed ethically prioritizing fairness, transparency, and equality. I see a future where AI can play a vital role in amplifying the voices of the oppressed and helping organizations fight for justice more effectively.
Q: How do you see the international community’s role in addressing human rights issues in India?
Megha Singh Nandiwal: The international community has an important role to play. India’s growing global influence means that it is essential for countries, especially powerful democracies like the United States and those in the European Union, to speak out on human rights abuses. It’s disheartening to see that, despite mounting evidence of human rights violations in India, many international leaders remain silent, often due to economic or geopolitical interests.
I believe that human rights should not be compromised for strategic partnerships. The international community must demand accountability, not just in words but through actions. This includes taking a firm stand against atrocities in regions like Manipur, where ethnic violence is rampant, and ensuring that any trade deals or diplomatic exchanges prioritize the protection of human rights. Pressure from the global community can push India toward meaningful reforms and accountability.
Q: Megha, what advice would you give to young leaders who are passionate about both technology and social impact?
Megha Singh Nandiwal: My advice would be simple: follow your passion, and don’t be afraid to combine seemingly different fields. Technology and social impact are not mutually exclusive. In fact, they can complement each other in extraordinary ways. Whether you’re in AI, healthcare, or any other field, always keep people at the center of your work. Use your platformtodrivepositivechangeandleverageyourskillstocreateamorejustandequitable world.
It’s not going to be easy, but if you stay true to your values, build a network of like-minded individuals, and remain persistent, you can make a real difference. And don’t forget to nurture your passion—because it will be what fuels you when the journey gets tough.
In conclusion, Megha Singh Nandiwal’s leadership at Foundation AI and her commitment to human rights reflect a deep-seated passion for making the world a better place—whether through cutting-edge technology or fighting for justice and equality. Her journey serves as an inspiring example of how one can lead in the tech world while remaining steadfast in their dedication to social impact. Passion, she believes, is the true driver of change, even when the road is difficult. And in both the corporate world and human rights advocacy, she continues to prove that change is not only possible—it’s essential.
