A Builder, An Innovator, and Future Ready voice for the Next Generation
By Elisa O'Halloran
“I am a storyteller at heart,” says Sukhi Sahni, who brings her passion for building, innovating, and creating to everything she does. Whether she’s building a new team from the ground up to support a start-up or a transformational brand shift for a seasoned company; strengthening an organization’s foundation using modern integrated communications tool kits, she leads with vision.
As an adjunct professor at Georgetown University, Sukhi teaches Modern-Day PR Storytelling—equipping the next generation of communicators with skills to thrive in a digital-first, AI-augmented landscape.
Outside the corporate world, Sukhi also serves on several nonprofit boards, including her favorite, National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), where she advocates for mental health awareness and stigma reduction (NAMI). “I truly believe mental health is the foundation of happiness and success,” she shares. “I’m looking forward to helping reduce the stigma and make a lasting impact in our communities.”
Outside of work, she and her husband are discussing launching a lighthearted podcast about the ups and downs of 20+ years of marriage. Sukhi adds, “We want to laugh a little, share a little and remind people that marriage takes work, but you can have fun at the same time.”
As a past Emerging Leaders Award (ELA) judge, Sukhi says the experience was an honor and a great opportunity to witness tremendous young talent, meet new people, and expand her perspective. “I highly recommend MarComm professionals to participate in judging such awards when possible—it helps diversify your thinking and introduces you to a strong pipeline of talent.”
WWPR and ELA have also given her a platform to pay it forward. “I firmly believe that we get better, together and the opportunity allowed me to turn that belief into action,” Sukhi says. Serving as a WWPR advisory council member allows her to give back while continuing to learn from peers.
When asked what advice she would offer rising women in public relations, Sukhi said, “Be proud of everything that makes you different—your culture, your upbringing, your values, your faith. What sets you apart is your greatest superpower, not your weakness.” As she noted in her op-ed in the Washington Business Journal a few years ago, “Being brown is advantageous.”
Sukhi also encourages young women in public relations to think beyond tactics and become business- first communicators, and future proof themselves by always learning and staying curious. She guides young leaders to understand how companies make money, how to pitch for influence and build for impact. She adds, “strategic communications and public relations is about driving real outcomes and earning a seat at the table.”
A standout moment from her WWPR experience? “All of the events have been great—very thoughtful and they really foster a sense of community within WWPR,” she shares. One highlight was a fireside chat with Axios’ Eleanor Hawkins. “It was a dynamic conversation, and we’ve stayed in touch since. Her newsletter has become a must-read for every MarComm pro looking to stay sharp and informed.” Learn more about Sukhi Sahni on LinkedIn.
