Sonny is a first-generation college student with roots from rural Pakistan. He is a 2020 candidate for a Bachelor’s of Business Administration and a minor in science, technology, and society (STS) as well as public health from the University of Michigan. He has worked for and founded multiple initiatives, giving him a well-rounded background in leadership, marketing, technology, and operations. He has a strong commitment to service, for which he has received various accolades, including the Governor of Michigan’s volunteer service award, 2019 University of Michigan Student of the Year, and is a Gates Millennium Scholarship recipient. In his free time, he enjoys supporting Lakers basketball, watching 90s sitcoms, and perusing through Apple Music.
Executive Director in Finance, Founder
Arhum attained his bachelors in economics from the University of Michigan. He has extensive experience in finance, and has previously worked for various corporations as a tax and credit analyst. He currently resides in Arlington, VA where he is a business technology analyst for Accenture Federal Services. Leveraging his extensive background in business analysis, he spearheaded much of Paani’s initial strategic design and partnership building upon the founding of the organization. He continues to primarily manage Paani’s finances and guide operations. Recent accomplishments include procurement of a $10k/monthly Google Grant for Nonprofits. In his free time, he enjoys community building, traveling, and sports television.
Omar Ilyas
Executive Director of Public Health, Founder
Omar Ilyas is a graduate of the University of Michigan with a bachelor’s degree in Public Health, specializing in international health care policy. He has previously published in several international healthcare journals, and has spearheaded initiatives for the betterment of disenfranchised communities including refugees and those formerly incarcerated. He is particularly invested in health care development within Pakistan. His work has awarded him the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Spirit Award at the University of Michigan as well as a recognition for his commitment to service by the University of Michigan School of Public Health. He has further worked in Pakistan as a research analyst for the National Rural Support Programme (NRSP), studying correlations between water contamination, climate change, and health outcomes in rural Pakistan. He is currently working as a United Nations Team Member Representative through the American Pakistan Foundation.