Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts | 11–17 August 2026
Dr. D. A. Thejeshwari, a distinguished entrepreneur, industrialist, philanthropist, educationist and cultural ambassador, will be featured among eminent global leaders at the Skills Live Show × Harvard 2026, organised in association with the Global Economic Forum (GEF) in the United States from 11th to 17th August 2026.
With contributions spanning food processing, biotechnology, healthcare, education, entrepreneurship and social development, Dr. Thejeshwari has built a remarkable career combining business excellence with community welfare and nation-building.
Since assuming the Directorship of Mysore Fruit Products Pvt. Ltd. in 1990, she has played a transformative role in developing the organisation into one of Karnataka’s leading exporters of processed food products. Under her leadership, the company established the renowned MYCAN brand and pioneered a farmer-centric backward integration model designed to promote fair pricing, sustainable sourcing and stronger connections between farmers and industry.
Her leadership has also helped expand the company’s international presence across Asia, Europe, Australia, the Middle East and North America, reflecting her commitment to taking Indian enterprise and products to global markets.
Beyond business, Dr. Thejeshwari has contributed to the development of several important institutions. She serves on the boards of organisations including Vydehi Institute of Medical Sciences, Vydehi Institute of Biotech Sciences, Green Food Park, Srini Food Park and Clintrac International, supporting initiatives in healthcare, biotechnology, research, food infrastructure and innovation.
Her contribution extends significantly into philanthropy and social development. She has supported women’s entrepreneurship, education, youth development and community welfare, while also undertaking initiatives such as mass marriages and employment opportunities for widows. Her work reflects a strong belief that economic development must go hand in hand with social inclusion and community empowerment.
Dr. Thejeshwari is equally passionate about India’s cultural and natural heritage. Through initiatives supporting music, cultural preservation and temple rejuvenation, she has worked to preserve India’s traditions while promoting greater awareness of the country’s rich heritage.
Author of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants of India
Adding another significant dimension to her contribution, Dr. D. A. Thejeshwari is the author of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants of India, a work that represents the culmination of decades of study, research, field observations and a deep passion for India’s extraordinary botanical heritage.
The book explores the remarkable diversity of medicinal and aromatic plants found across India, highlighting their traditional significance, therapeutic value and contribution to human well-being. It seeks to connect India’s traditional knowledge with contemporary understanding while encouraging responsible utilisation and conservation of these invaluable natural resources.
More than a reference work on medicinal flora, the book is presented as a tribute to India’s timeless wisdom and biodiversity. It encourages readers to recognise the relationship between human health and the health of nature, while inspiring future generations to preserve India’s botanical heritage.
Through this work, Dr. Thejeshwari advocates for a deeper understanding of nature’s healing resources and promotes the idea that caring for nature is essential to the well-being of humanity and all life.
At the Harvard programme, Dr. D. A. Thejeshwari participates in the special panel “AI for Every Mind | AI for All”, bringing her multidisciplinary experience in entrepreneurship, industry, education, healthcare and social development to an international discussion on technology and inclusive progress.
Her participation demonstrates how conversations around artificial intelligence and innovation can extend beyond technology itself to include agriculture, healthcare, education, entrepreneurship, sustainability and community development.
The international programme features distinguished personalities including Prof. Dr. Parin Somani, CEO of LOSD; Baron Alec Stern, entrepreneur and philanthropist; Ellen Mannaert, humanitarian investor and entrepreneur; Cllr Tushar Kumar, Mayor of Elstree & Borehamwood; and Dr. Hari Krishna Maram, Chairman of the Global Economic Forum and AI Evangelist.
The special panel brings together accomplished professionals including Dr. Nirmala Joshi, Dr. Sri Valli Chekuri, Dr. Umesh Neelakantan, Suchetha Raj, Dr. Rajkumar M. Kolhe, Dr. Prerana Rajkumar Kolhe and Prof. (Dr.) Sandhya Tiwari, representing diverse fields of academia, healthcare, law, entrepreneurship, education and research.
Global Economic Forum
The Global Economic Forum (GEF) is an international platform connecting leaders from academia, education, business, technology, entrepreneurship and society. Through global conferences, leadership programmes and knowledge initiatives, GEF promotes international collaboration, recognition of excellence and exchange of ideas addressing emerging global opportunities and challenges.
Dr. Thejeshwari’s participation reflects GEF’s commitment to bringing together accomplished leaders whose work combines entrepreneurship, innovation, sustainability, social responsibility and nation-building.
A Historic Harvard Setting
The programme takes place at Harvard University, founded in 1636 and recognised as the oldest institution of higher education in the United States. For nearly four centuries, Harvard has been associated with academic excellence, research, innovation and global leadership.
The historic institution provides a fitting setting for international conversations on innovation, leadership, education, entrepreneurship and sustainable development. (harvard.edu)
Dr. Thejeshwari’s remarkable contributions have earned her numerous national and international honours, including the Global Icon Award and multiple recognitions for export excellence.
Her participation at Skills Live Show × Harvard 2026 represents another milestone in a distinguished journey that bridges business, innovation, social responsibility, culture and environmental consciousness.
Through her entrepreneurial leadership, philanthropic initiatives and literary contribution through Medicinal and Aromatic Plants of India, Dr. D. A. Thejeshwari continues to demonstrate how individual vision can create impact across industries and communities.
Her presence at Harvard further highlights the importance of bringing together economic progress, technological innovation, cultural heritage, environmental responsibility and human development in shaping a more sustainable and inclusive future.
For more information:
+91 99000 01511
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