Sattie Persaud is a remarkable leader whose multifaceted career exemplifies the power of commitment and cultural advocacy. She is director of foreign exchange and intercompany lending with Otis Elevator Co. Furthermore, as the founder of the World Heritage Cultural Center and a respected professional in the corporate world, Ms. Persaud’s work significantly impacts her community and her industry. Her story is one of extraordinary resilience and unwavering dedication—a journey that highlights the transformative power of education and cultural advocacy. Growing up in poverty in Suriname, she defied the odds to become the first in her family to not only surpass third grade but to earn a college degree in the United States. This achievement set the stage for an impressive career and the founding of the World Heritage Cultural Center, which uses the arts to share the profound stories of humanity. Her organization works with 850 cultural groups across the globe and in the U.S.
In the realms of cultural preservation and community engagement, Ms. Persaud stands out as a dynamic force and an inspiring leader. At the World Heritage Cultural Center, she has dedicated her life to celebrating and preserving the world’s diverse cultural heritage. Her devotion to cultural advocacy, education, and empowerment has enriched her local community and garnered international recognition for her impactful work. Ms. Persaud has played a significant role in championing the importance of cultural heritage on a global level. The World Heritage Cultural Center was created to uphold its mission of fostering appreciation for cultural diversity, promoting dialogue, and empowering communities through the preservation and celebration of their heritage. By engaging with diverse cultural narratives, the center aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of human experiences and the importance of cultural heritage in shaping identity.
Ms. Persaud’s vast contributions to cultural heritage and her leadership qualities have earned her a place among the Elite 24 Women of Indian Descent in the U.S. This distinction highlights her role as a trailblazer, showcasing the outstanding achievements of women from Indian backgrounds across various fields. Additionally, she was honored with the Woman of Substance Award by Business View, a testament to her critical work and dedication to empowering others through cultural initiatives. Further, Ms. Persaud was named to Marquis Who’s Who in America – to name just a few major recognitions.
Ms. Persaud’s exemplary efforts have also caught the attention of the Forbes Nonprofit Council, where she was invited to become a member in 2023. This prestigious invitation marks a significant milestone in her career, allowing her to connect with other leaders in the nonprofit sector and contribute to meaningful conversations around cultural advocacy, community development, and social impact. In 2024, Ms. Persaud’s standing within the Forbes organization continued to rise as she became a Forbes Nonprofit Council Lead Member and a Forbes Nonprofit Council Influencer. These roles empower her to lead discussions that shape the future of nonprofit initiatives, providing a platform for her to share insights, expand her network, and advocate for cultural heritage preservation. Ms. Persaud is also a Global Goodwill Ambassador in 217 countries and territories.
Ms. Persaud credits her success to her discipline and dedication to her work. Her ability to seize opportunities has been pivotal in navigating the complexities of the nonprofit landscape. Through resilience and a proactive mindset, she continually seeks innovative ways to advance her mission of cultural preservation and community empowerment. Her journey emphasizes the importance of tenacity and adaptability in achieving one’s goals. Ms. Persaud’s story serves as an inspiring reminder that hard work and seizing the moment can lead to transformative outcomes not only for oneself but for the broader community.
Ms. Persaud’s work in cultural advocacy and community empowerment has received numerous accolades on a global scale. Her efforts have garnered significant attention, enabling her to network with other leaders in the nonprofit sector and further amplifying her voice and influence within her field. One of the most celebrated is for her recent publication in Forbes for the Forbes Nonprofit Council, titled “Co-Creation: Unlocking the Power of Collaborative Innovation,” which reflects her view on the importance of collaboration and innovation in the nonprofit sector. Her writing also mirrors her deep belief in the causes she advocates and demonstrates her ability to articulate important issues facing cultural organizations today. As an author and sharing her expertise, she continues to influence and inspire other nonprofit leaders and community advocates.
Prior to her current roles as a senior director of FX and intercompany lending, a Global Goodwill Ambassador, and founder of a nonprofit, Ms. Persaud held a litany of key financial positions at United Technologies, Robert Half Finance & Accounting, Patriot National Bank, Darien Rowayton Bank, Mindspark Interactive Network, Inc., UBS, and IBM over the course of more than two decades. She holds a Bachelor of Science in accounting from Pace University. Moreover, Ms. Persaud studied screenwriting and completed coursework at the New York Film Academy. In 2005, she wrote a novel about her family’s history, and she plans to publish the book in 2026.
Born in South America and of Indian descent, Ms. Persaud speaks English, Dutch, and moderate Hindi. She never forgets that she hails from a place where women were not allowed to attend school until just two decades ago, and where girls were married off at age 13 and became grandmothers by age 26. Yet, Ms. Persaud says she was always determined to break past molds, and she has excelled “far beyond the third grade” to earn a degree.
Ms. Persaud’s journey as the founder of the World Heritage Cultural Center, her status as one of the Elite 24 Women of Indian Descent, and her influential roles within the Forbes Nonprofit Council exemplify the impact one individual can have on cultural preservation and community empowerment. Her commitment to her mission, combined with her discipline and a keen eye for opportunity, allows her to inspire others and champion the importance of cultural heritage in a rapidly changing world. As Ms. Persaud continues to lead with passion and purpose, her contributions will undoubtedly shape the future of cultural advocacy and serve as a guiding light for future generations.