Ankita is the kind of person who makes you feel smarter just by being in the room with her. She’s got this magical mix of big-picture brilliance and on-the-ground practicality that makes ideas not just exciting—but doable. Whether she’s helping cities dream bigger for their kids or nudging teams toward more joyful, inclusive ways of working, Ankita brings heart, humor, and a whole lot of wisdom.

She’s a strategist, a listener, a translator of vision into reality—and honestly, just fun to work with. She’s a trusted partner and a steady presence in moments that matter. If you get the chance to partner with her, take it. You’ll be better for it.

Jen De Melo
VP of Innovation & Strategic Partnerships
KABOOM!

Ankita is a thoughtful, generous, and caring colleague who consistently brings joy to those around her. She isn't afraid to embrace the boldest ideas, and she has a remarkable ability to articulate exciting and ambitious visions for creating better lives and opportunities for children, families, and communities. Her passion inspires those who work with her to think more ambitiously and aim higher.

I deeply admire Ankita’s willingness to take smart, calculated risks in pursuit of meaningful change. Rarely intimidated, she approaches challenges with unusual enthusiasm and confidence.

Joe Waters
CEO and Co-founder
Capita

Ankita is someone you can always count on. She’s attentive and thoughtful, someone who listens carefully and constantly brings ideas and different perspectives to the conversation. Her collaborative and proactive spirit makes working with her effortless. She has a remarkable ability to understand nuance and offer insights that help the team make grounded, thoughtful decisions.

Teresa Xavier 
Programs and Operations Coordinator
Our Kids' Climate

I have had the good fortune of working with Ankita on numerous occasions in the child-friendly planning space over the years and consider her one of the steadiest, wisest, and smartest people I know. A true fellow traveler and someone who, to put it simply, is invariably right. 

When our team in Bratislava began discussing who should keynote a 700-person conference on child-focused planning, Ankita’s name instantly came to the forefront. Not only did this diverse group of people know Ankita independently, but we all agreed that there is simply no one else who matches her depth of knowledge, charisma, and compelling personal story. She is undoubtedly the most persuasive voice we could have on our stage.

Simon Battisti
Executive Director, Qendra Marrëdhënie
Creative Director, Start With Children Summit