Our inspiring and passionate alumna, Sonal Dhanani, recently had the remarkable opportunity to share her insights and expertise at the United Nations Asia Pacific Headquarters in bustling Bangkok, Thailand. Her presence at this prestigious regional partner meeting, hosted by UN ESCAP and SIDA, The Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency, was a testament to her dedication to creating positive change in the world.
Sonal Dhanani is the visionary founder of Parindey Training and Counseling, a remarkable social enterprise committed to addressing issues of social injustice in Pakistan, with a focus on mental health, gender equality, and peacebuilding. Parindey’s unique approach centers around human-centered design methodologies, allowing them to collaboratively craft solutions in partnership with the very communities they seek to support. It’s an approach that recognizes the value of local knowledge and experience.
The UN extended its invitation to Sonal with good reason. She was there to shed light on the pivotal role of people’s wisdom in the realm of modern innovations. Her expertise delves into the intersection of science and society, offering insights into why and how citizen science can be harnessed for progress.
Earlier this year, Sonal showcased her research in South Korea, backed by the Association for Asian Studies (AAS). Her work is centered on the crucial task of decolonizing climate information in Pakistan. She champions the inclusion of local knowledge in climate content creation, ensuring that indigenous wisdom is a vital part of the conversation.
Sonal’s commitment goes beyond theory and extends into action. She is actively involved in documenting the stories of loss and pain experienced by those affected by floods in Sindh and Baluchistan. Her goal is to transform these narratives into knowledge data, presented through short videos and films. This invaluable resource not only serves as a testament to resilience but also equips communities to better mitigate disaster risks in the future.
In her own words, “Small farmers are some of the most vulnerable to climate change and other shocks and stresses, but they possess traditional wisdom that should not be overlooked. Citizen science can bridge the gap in data scarcity and instill downward accountability. The process of learning and feedback through citizen science can challenge the existing structural inequities while empowering key stakeholders.”
Sonal Dhanani’s journey is a testament to the power of individuals who are determined to effect positive change. Her work at the intersection of science, community engagement, and social justice serves as an inspiration for us all. It’s a reminder that every voice, every piece of knowledge, no matter how humble, can be a catalyst for transformative progress.
