Sikander “Sonny” Khan is a distinguished leader whose innovative social initiatives have earned global acclaim, including the Diana Legacy Award for his humanitarian work with the Paani Project. As the CEO of Paani, he has spearheaded efforts that have raised over $9 million, built over 30,000 water wells, and delivered millions of meals to rural families in Pakistan. His leadership has expanded Paani’s reach to Jordan, providing vital aid and fostering sustainable development. In his role as a Product Marketing Manager at Microsoft, Sonny leverages his marketing acumen and AI expertise to drive impactful community projects. A University of Michigan alumnus with a Bachelor’s in Business Administration, he is celebrated as a first-generation college graduate from rural Pakistan. His honors include Forbes 30 Under 30, TIME 100 Rising Stars, and the Gates Millennium Scholarship, underscoring his commitment to harnessing technology for social betterment. Under Sonny’s guidance, Paani has become a beacon of hope, with initiatives like the solar water center built in collaboration with NBA stars, which garnered praise from the U.S. Consulate General in Karachi. His vision has led to the creation of a school for Afghan child refugees and healthcare initiatives supporting villages, positioning Paani as a key player in global sustainability efforts. Sonny’s journey from selling doughnuts to fund a single well to transforming lives across nations exemplifies the power of visionary leadership and collective action.
