We conduct action-oriented, mixed methods research on sustainable, gender equitable cities, public spaces, and transport
Our mission
Transform transport and cities to mitigate and adapt to climate
change
Design processes to effectively inform, consult, involve and collaborate
Create vibrant public spaces for gender equitable and universal access
Who we are
SONAL SHAH
Founder, The Urban Catalysts
Executive Director, Centre for Sustainable and Equitable Cities
Sonal is a multisectoral, collaborative professional driven by the goal of catalyzing sustainable, gender equitable transport and cities. She has over 18 years experience in sustainable transportation, gender equity and social inclusion, station accessibility planning, neighbourhood and street design, public spaces and land-use transport integration.
Sonal is responsible for introducing gender responsive guidelines in India's URDPFI guidelines - a first for the country. She was a key contributor to the urban street design guidelines for the Indian Roads Congress (2016-18). She has advised on incorporating a gender perspective in urban transport projects and programs, and influenced investments of $9 billion, directly impacting 500,000 women and girls by 2027.
Sonal has led projects funded by FCDO, ADB, AfD, Bloomberg Philanthropies, GIZ, UN-Habitat, World Bank and worked across 10 states in India, South and Central Asia, East Africa, Middle East and the United States. She has advised action-oriented research by feminist organizations such as Jagori, Azad Foundation, been a Fulbright Scholarship juror, mentored Asia Foundation LeadNext Fellows and is a member of the Main Bhi Dilli Campaign.
Sonal was featured in the Transformative Urban Mobility Initiative's network of Remarkable Women in Transport 2020 and Remarkable Feminist Voices in Transport 2023 to recognize women change makers in the sector. She graduated from the urban planning program from Columbia University, New York, and serves on the alumni board of the Graduate School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation.
