London, UK, 18 February 2025 – Against the regal milieu of London, where heritage and modernity effortlessly blend, the India UK Achievers Honours 2025 celebrated the brilliance and impact of Indian alumni who have harnessed the power of British education to drive transformative change. This prestigious event, known for recognizing trailblazers across industries, brought together an inspiring cohort of leaders, innovators, and change-makers who are redefining excellence on the global stage. Among them, Mr. Keshav Suri, Executive Director of The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group and Founder of the Keshav Suri Foundation, stood as a beacon of resilience and progress, dedicated to driving inclusivity, championing social equity, and spearheading transformative policy reforms across India.
Honoured in the distinguished Society and Policy category, Suri has been at the forefront of advocacy, tirelessly working to dismantle systemic barriers and create a more just society. Through his foundation, he has pioneered numerous initiatives aimed at empowering marginalized communities, particularly the LGBTQ+ population, by providing them with access to education, employment, and healthcare.
His leadership transcends corporate achievements, redefining success through impact, advocacy, and societal transformation, as he actively engages in shaping progressive policies, collaborating with policymakers, and driving impactful discussions on human rights and social justice. His relentless pursuit of equality has positioned him as a transformative force, challenging outdated norms and reshaping India’s socio-economic framework.
With an unwavering vision for an inclusive future, Mr. Suri’s contributions go far beyond his business empire. His advocacy and philanthropic endeavors continue to create ripples of change, inspiring individuals, organizations, and governments to take decisive strides toward a more just, equitable, and inclusive society. As he takes his place among the most influential Indian achievers in the UK, his journey serves as a testament to the power of education, perseverance, and purpose-driven leadership. The India UK Achievers Honours 2025 not only celebrates his accomplishments but also reaffirms the importance of championing diversity, equality, and social transformation on a global scale.
Mr. Suri has never been one to accept the status quo. At the helm of The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group, he has redefined luxury hospitality in India, seamlessly blending opulence with purpose. Under his leadership, the brand has not only cemented its reputation as one of India’s most esteemed hospitality chains but has also emerged as a powerful advocate for social change. His vision extends beyond the conventional parameters of business—his establishments serve as sanctuaries of acceptance, safety, and empowerment, particularly for the LGBTQ+ community and marginalized groups. By embedding inclusivity into the very fabric of his organization, Mr. Suri has ensured that The Lalit is not just a hotel chain but a movement, setting a precedent for corporate social responsibility across industries.
His initiatives transcend hospitality, actively dismantling barriers and creating opportunities for those often snubbed by society. From spearheading policies that promote diversity in the workplace to championing equal rights on public platforms, his advocacy has played a pivotal role in reshaping societal norms. Through the Keshav Suri Foundation, he has launched ground-breaking programs focused on skill development, healthcare access, and financial independence for underprivileged communities. His commitment to fostering safe and inclusive workspaces has made The Lalit the first hospitality brand in India to implement gender-neutral policies and offer employment opportunities to individuals from diverse backgrounds, reinforcing the ethos that business must be a vehicle for empowerment.
Reflecting on this esteemed recognition, Mr. Suri shared, “The India UK Achievers Honours is more than just an award; it is a testament to the power of education, the impact of global collaboration, and the urgent need for inclusivity. I am deeply honoured to be recognized on this platform, but more than that, I am grateful for the opportunity to continue this mission of social transformation.” His journey serves as an inspiration, proving that true leadership is not just about success—it is about impact. As he stands among the distinguished achievers of India UK Achievers Honours 2025, his story reinforces the idea that businesses thrive not only on profits but on purpose, and that real change begins when influence is used to uplift those who need it the most.
Mr. Suri’s work extends far beyond the walls of luxury hotels. Through the Keshav Suri Foundation (KSF), he has spearheaded pioneering initiatives that empower underrepresented communities. His initiatives have touched thousands of lives, whether through employment opportunities, healthcare access, policy advocacy, or educational awareness.
One of KSF’s most impactful initiatives is the India Workplace Equality Index (IWEI), launched in partnership with Pride Circle and Stonewall UK. This initiative encourages corporations to adopt truly inclusive policies, ensuring workplaces become safe and welcoming spaces for LGBTQ+ individuals. Additionally, the Q-Samvaad helpline, Trans Cricket Tournament, and Queering Healthcare project further illustrate the foundation’s commitment to bridging societal gaps and fostering real inclusion.
Mr. Suri has long been vocal about the recognition and rights of transgender individuals. “India has never ‘invisibalised’ the transgender community, and I take immense pride in that. The fight for equality is not just about legal reforms; it is about changing mindsets, dismantling prejudices, and ensuring that every individual—regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation—has an equal shot at success.” His words resonate deeply, serving as a call to action for corporate leaders and policymakers alike.
The India UK Achievers Honours, organized by the National Indian Students and Alumni Union UK (NISAU) in collaboration with the British Council India and the UK Government, is a tribute to the deep-rooted ties between the two nations. The program recognizes Indian students and alumni who have leveraged their British education to drive meaningful change across diverse industries.
The initiative has received significant recognition from British policymakers. Gareth Thomas, MP and Minister for Services, Small Businesses, and Exports at the Department for Business and Trade, emphasized the invaluable contributions of Indian professionals in shaping British society and culture. Meanwhile, Seema Malhotra, Minister for Equalities in the Department for Education and Minister for Migration in the Home Office, highlighted the program’s role in fostering cross-border partnerships and enhancing the UK-India educational and professional landscape.
For Mr. Suri, this honour is also a celebration of the global learning experience. “My education in the UK gave me exposure, broadened my perspectives, and shaped my understanding of leadership beyond profit margins. It taught me that businesses have the power—and responsibility—to drive social change.”
Sanam Arora, Chair of NISAU UK and the driving force behind the India UK Achievers Honours, aptly captured the spirit of this recognition: “The achievers we celebrate today are more than individuals—they are catalysts of change, disruptors of norms, and torchbearers of progress. Their stories inspire, their work transforms, and their journeys redefine what is possible.”
Mr. Suri’s story is one of courage, resilience, and unwavering determination. From integrating transgender employees into the workforce to pushing for policy reforms that protect marginalized communities, his efforts extend far beyond symbolic gestures. They represent tangible, systemic change.
As part of the Achievers Class of 2025, Mr. Suri was invited to London for a series of prestigious engagements. Among them was a special recognition event at the British Parliament, where honourees engaged with British MPs, policymakers, and education leaders. The week culminated in a grand gala ceremony, attended by some of the most influential figures from academia, business, government, and the Indian diaspora.
For Mr. Suri, the journey is far from over. “This recognition is not the destination; it is fuel for the road ahead. There is still so much work to be done, and I remain committed to ensuring that inclusivity is not a privilege, but a fundamental right for all.”
Mr. Suri’s influence transcends industries—he is a pioneering force of transformation, relentlessly championing inclusivity, equality, and social progress. His recognition at the India UK Achievers Honours 2025 is not just a milestone in his journey but a testament to his unparalleled impact on both hospitality and the broader fight for human rights. As a trailblazer, he has redefined leadership by merging business excellence with a steadfast commitment to creating a more just and equitable society.
His work serves as an inspiration and a blueprint for the next generation of entrepreneurs, policymakers, and social advocates. By integrating education, corporate responsibility, and activism, he exemplifies that leadership is not solely measured by financial success but by the ability to ignite meaningful and lasting change. Through his initiatives, he has demonstrated that businesses can be powerful platforms for social transformation, dismantling outdated norms and paving the way for a more inclusive future.
As his global influence continues to grow, one thing remains indisputable—Mr. Suri is not just envisioning a future of inclusivity, empowerment, and equity; he is actively building it. His work ensures that these principles are not merely aspirational ideals but tangible realities that will shape generations to come.
Join the movement—champion inclusivity, drive change, and build a future where equality knows no bounds.
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