Professional Summary
Professional Overview
Suneel Rajavaram is a seasoned water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) professional with over 25 years of experience in the international development sector. As the Senior Manager of WASH Technology at the Centre for Affordable Water and Sanitation Technology (CAWST) in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, he leverages his extensive expertise to drive innovative solutions that improve access to safe water and sanitation in underserved communities worldwide.
Experience Summary
Current Role
In his current role as the Senior Manager of WASH Technology at CAWST, Suneel is responsible for overseeing the development, implementation, and scaling of affordable and sustainable WASH technologies. He collaborates with a team of subject matter experts to identify, evaluate, and adapt WASH innovations that can be effectively deployed in diverse global contexts. Under Suneel's leadership, CAWST has successfully introduced game-changing WASH technologies that have positively impacted the lives of millions of people in low- and middle-income countries.
Career Progression
Prior to his current role, Suneel held several senior-level positions within CAWST, including Senior Global WASH Advisor and Global WASH Advisor. In these roles, he provided strategic guidance and technical support to partner organizations, governments, and communities on a wide range of WASH-related initiatives. Suneel's earlier career experiences include serving as a Field Director at World University Service of Canada (WUSC), a Delegate at the Canadian Red Cross and the International Committee of the Red Cross, and a Project Manager, Program Manager, and Program Coordinator at CHF. His diverse background has equipped him with a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities in the WASH sector, allowing him to drive meaningful and lasting change.
Academic Background
Suneel holds a Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering from India, as well as a Master's degree in Water Resources Engineering from the Netherlands. His academic achievements and specialized training have provided a strong foundation for his successful career in the WASH sector.
Areas of Expertise
- Water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) technology development and implementation
- WASH systems strengthening and capacity building
- Monitoring, evaluation, and impact assessment of WASH interventions
- Collaborative partnership management and stakeholder engagement
- Technical advisory and project management in international development contexts
Professional Impact
Suneel's leadership and technical expertise have been instrumental in the successful implementation of numerous WASH projects and initiatives worldwide. Under his guidance, CAWST has collaborated with various partners to introduce innovative WASH technologies, such as low-cost water filters and sanitation solutions, that have improved the lives of millions of people in underserved communities. Suneel's commitment to sustainable and equitable WASH access has earned him recognition as a thought leader in the industry, and he continues to contribute to the advancement of the sector through his work at CAWST.
Conclusion
With his extensive experience, specialized knowledge, and proven track record of driving positive change, Suneel Rajavaram is a respected WASH professional who is dedicated to enhancing access to safe water, improved sanitation, and better hygiene practices globally. His innovative approach and collaborative mindset make him a valuable asset in the international development sector.
