Key Impact Points:
- Saru Duckworth mentors young innovators in 30+ countries to drive grassroots economic empowerment for the SDGs.
- She works with BRAC and governments across Africa and Asia to scale sustainable livelihoods for women in extreme poverty.
- A Fulbright Scholar and Columbia MPA candidate, Saru has received awards for research on climate vulnerability and social norms.
Empowering Women and Youth for Economic Inclusion
Saru Duckworth, a Nepalese-American researcher and development practitioner, is dedicated to fostering economic inclusion for youth and women across the Global South. As the UN Foundation Next Generation Fellow for Jobs & Economic Opportunities, she mentors young people in over 30 countries, helping them create grassroots economic initiatives aligned with the SDGs. Saru has represented these efforts on global stages, including the UN High-Level Political Forum, World Bank Spring Meetings, and ECOSOC Youth Forum.
“Saru’s passion lies in evidence-based policy solutions to eradicate poverty and promote decent work globally.”
Scaling Proven Livelihoods Programs
At BRAC, the world’s largest Southern-led international NGO, Saru Duckworth works with the Ultra-Poor Graduation Initiative to integrate sustainable livelihood solutions for women living in extreme poverty into national systems across Africa and Asia. These initiatives aim to uplift women with a focus on long-term economic stability.
Academic Excellence and Research Leadership
Saru Duckworth is currently pursuing an MPA in Development Practice at Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs, specializing in social inclusion and the cultural dimensions of poverty. As a research assistant to esteemed economists Joseph Stiglitz and Karla Hoff, she contributes to publications on behavioral economics.
Recognized for Impact
A recipient of awards for her research on climate vulnerability and SRHR norms, Saru also served as a Fulbright Scholar. Her on-the-ground work has spanned South and Southeast Asia, including Myanmar and Nepal, further advancing women’s economic empowerment.
Saru Duckworth continues to inspire as a rising leader in development practice, blending evidence-based strategies with grassroots innovation to accelerate progress toward the SDGs.
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