Shweta Rawat, a distinguished leader in humanitarian work and global development, has been appointed to the Board of Directors of Americares, a U.S.-based nonprofit committed to health relief and disaster response initiatives. With years of experience driving philanthropic initiatives and advancing inclusive healthcare, Rawat’s appointment is expected to enhance the organization’s efforts in delivering medical care to communities affected by poverty, conflict, or natural disasters.
For more than ten years, Rawat has actively supported Americares and its mission. She is the visionary founder and chairperson of The Hans Foundation—one of India’s largest philanthropic organizations—where she has played a central role in creating long-term solutions for marginalized populations. Her work has focused on disability rights, women’s leadership, and economic empowerment.
In her statement, Rawat expressed her deep appreciation for the opportunity to contribute at a leadership level. She highlighted the critical role Americares plays in both emergency response and building resilient healthcare systems across the globe.
In addition to her role at The Hans Foundation, Rawat is the managing director of the Rural India Supporting Trust (RIST), which she co-founded in 2009. RIST partners with organizations aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals to combat poverty and improve health services in India. A notable collaboration between RIST and Americares led to the expansion of mobile health units in Mumbai—from a single vehicle to a comprehensive healthcare service reaching tens of thousands of individuals each year.
Christine Squires, President and CEO of Americares, praised Rawat’s vision and dedication, noting her as a key figure in advancing health equity and driving global change.
The Americares Board oversees extensive health programs, including rapid emergency medical deployments and long-term support to over 4,000 clinics and hospitals worldwide.
Rawat’s academic credentials include a bachelor’s degree in international relations from American University and a master’s degree in human rights and politics from City University in the United Kingdom. She also serves on the U.S. Advisory Board for the Museum of Art & Photography and is associated with the Banyan Academy of Leadership in Mental Health.
Since 1979, Americares has delivered more than $23 billion in medical aid across 164 countries and is ranked No. 8 on Forbes’ list of Top 100 Charities, with a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator.
