Paulomi Dhawan: Celebrating the trailblazer who fuses brand leadership with purpose

As Paulomi Dhawan celebrated her birthday on 11th May, the industry takes a moment to celebrate a remarkable journey that has seamlessly bridged the worlds of corporate strategy and social change. 

With over four decades of experience across media, advertising, brand management and philanthropy, Dhawan remains a powerful force in India’s evolving brand and social impact narrative.

Starting her career in advertising, Dhawan quickly rose through the ranks at renowned agencies like Everest Advertising and Rediffusion. As National Media Director at Everest, she became known for her integrity, insight, and ability to anticipate shifts in consumer behaviour. Her later role at Raymond, where she led Media and Corporate Communications, cemented her status as a formidable brand strategist.

In 2010, she ventured into entrepreneurship with Landmarc Leisure Corporation, launching 'Svastii'—a premium chain of spalons—proving her acumen in spotting and shaping consumer trends. But it was her transition into the social sector that truly redefined her legacy.

As Chairperson and Managing Trustee of Make-A-Wish Foundation India since 2021, Dhawan has infused corporate rigour and visionary leadership into the nonprofit’s mission of granting life-changing wishes to critically ill children. Under her guidance, the foundation is poised to grant its 100,000th wish by early 2026. Her efforts extend from digital transformation and volunteer mobilization to global representation at prestigious forums such as the Make-A-Wish International conference in Utrecht, where she spoke alongside Nobel laureate Ouided Bouchamaoui.

In addition to her executive achievements, Dhawan plays a vital governance role in the media and entertainment ecosystem. She serves as an Independent Director on the board of DB Corp, and sits on the boards of Mukta Arts, Whistling Woods, and Pokarna Limited, where her strategic counsel continues to shape institutional direction and growth.

Paulomi Dhawan’s journey is more than a testament to professional success—it’s an embodiment of how vision, values, and versatility can create enduring impact. As she celebrates another milestone today, colleagues, peers, and well-wishers applaud a leader whose legacy continues to inspire across sectors.