Founder Editor Team
Hina Shah is a pioneering name in the field of women’s entrepreneurship in India. As the Founder-Director of the International Centre for Entrepreneurship and Career Development (ICECD), she has dedicated her life to empowering women through economic independence and skill development. Her relentless efforts have not only transformed thousands of lives but also redefined grassroots entrepreneurship in India and beyond.
Early Vision and the Birth of ICECD
Hina Shah’s journey into entrepreneurship development began in the early 1980s, a time when very few women were seen in leadership or business roles in India. With a background in economics and a passion for women’s empowerment, she founded ICECD in 1986 in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.
The goal was clear from the start: create an ecosystem where women from all backgrounds—especially those in rural and marginalized communities—could become self-reliant through entrepreneurship and career skills.
ICECD quickly evolved into a leading institute that provides training, mentorship, financial literacy, and business support to aspiring entrepreneurs. Hina’s model focused not just on income generation, but also on boosting confidence and breaking social barriers.
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Transforming Lives Across Borders
Under Hina Shah’s leadership, ICECD has impacted over 300,000 women across India and more than 50 countries. Her training modules, designed with real-world challenges in mind, are tailored to help women start small businesses—from tailoring and food processing to eco-friendly crafts and agribusiness.
One of the unique aspects of her programs is the integration of entrepreneurship with social development. For example, many ICECD-trained women have gone on to become change-makers in their own villages, creating jobs and serving as role models for the next generation.
The success of ICECD’s model has been recognized internationally. The organization has partnered with the United Nations, World Bank, and various governments to replicate its approach in Africa, Central Asia, and the Middle East.
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Awards and Recognition
Hina Shah’s contributions have earned her numerous accolades. She has received the Padma Shri, India’s fourth-highest civilian award, for her exceptional work in social entrepreneurship. Other recognitions include the Stree Shakti Award and honors from international bodies like the UNDP and ILO.
Despite the recognition, Hina remains grounded and focused on her mission. Her work continues to be rooted in empathy, grassroots impact, and a deep belief in the power of women to transform economies.
Legacy and Future Vision
More than just an entrepreneur or a trainer, Hina Shah is a movement-maker. She has played a crucial role in shaping India’s policies around women’s entrepreneurship and continues to mentor young leaders committed to inclusive development.
With the increasing global focus on women-led economic growth, Hina Shah’s vision through ICECD is more relevant than ever. Her story serves as an inspiration for anyone who believes in the transformative power of education, opportunity, and self-reliance.
