Dhruva Bhat
Type: Mountaintop Executive Fellowship
Hometown: Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
Fellowship Location: India and the UK
What inspired you to join Mountaintop?
"Learning from experts and peers, developing a community of impact-focused entrepreneurs, and having the space to continue thinking about the long-term strategy and vision for Lumiere!"
Dhruva Bhat is an accomplished education innovator, researcher, and global leader committed to fostering transformative learning experiences and advancing social equity. As the Co-Founder and Director of Lumiere Education, Dhruva has empowered over 4,000 students from 80 countries by creating a groundbreaking platform for independent research and skill development. Under his leadership, Lumiere has connected students with a network of over 1,000 top-tier mentors, establishing a global community of young scholars passionate about addressing real-world challenges.
Dhruva's tenure as Coach and Head of Curriculum for the Indian Schools Debating Society revolutionized competitive debating in India. By helping establish a robust national debating framework, he played a pivotal role in positioning Indian students as global leaders in critical thinking and public speaking, culminating in multiple top-ranking finishes at the World Schools Debating Championships. His initiatives have not only enhanced India's profile in the global debating arena but also equipped young individuals with essential skills to thrive in an interconnected world.
With a DPhil in International Development from Oxford University as a Rhodes Scholar and an A.B. in economics, magna cum laude from Harvard University, Dhruva's research focuses on education policy and entrepreneurial ecosystems in developing regions. His work critically examines pathways to improving early childhood development, enhancing the Right to Education Act, and reimagining entrepreneurship beyond traditional venture capital models.
Dhruva's innovative leadership extends to his work with global organizations like Dalberg and the Abdul Latif Jameel Poverty Action Lab, where he has contributed to projects tackling energy access, education, and public health. Recognized as a Rhodes Scholar and recipient of multiple academic honors, he exemplifies a lifelong dedication to advancing knowledge and creating equitable opportunities.
As a Mountaintop Executive Fellow, Dhruva will benefit from tailored professional development opportunities aimed at deepening his expertise and advancing the impactful work of Lumiere Education.