President, Akraya Inc. – Santa Clara, California
The Founder and President of Akraya Incorporated, a multiple-award winning talent solutions staffing firm which provides internet technology, creative and marketing services, Sonu Ratra’s story is one of a young Indian girl who is truly living the American dream. Having arrived in the United States 18 years ago with only fifty-dollars in her pocket, she went on to become a successful entrepreneur while never forgetting her roots.
Ratra’s mother was her primary role model. In spite of being paralyzed from a spinal cord tumor, she raised two daughters to face the world and its hardships with a smile. She provided precious education, counseling and guidance for her family although she was completely bedridden herself. This determination and positive energy encouraged Ratra throughout her life, and inspired her to work hard toward achieving her dreams while also supporting and counseling other female professionals. As a successful entrepreneur, Ratra believes that with achievement also comes responsibility. She has always been very passionate about giving back to the community, and is a dedicated advocate of women’s empowerment.
Besides leading Akraya’s aggressive growth strategies, Ratra serves on the Board of Directors at the Institute of Economic Empowerment for Women and supports their Peace through Business Program. She also serves the Northern California Astra Women’s Business Alliance leadership group.
A past winner of the Enterprising Woman of the Year Award, Ratra has also received the Woman of Influence Award, the Stevie Award for Women Helping Women, the Soroptimist Ruby Award and the Indian American Women Empowered Award.
In her current role, Ratra spearheads Akraya’s Diversity Supplier Program which gives preference to minority and women business owners to fill its corporate needs. She also leads her organization’s charitable programs which include the Race for Literacy, Haitian fundraising events, and various women’s mentorship programs.
In the staffing industry, Ratra has been recognized as a highly motivated and focused thought leader. After more than a decade of recruitment and management experience, she founded Akraya in 2001 with the goal of fulfilling professional staffing and service demands which weren’t met by the current market.
Since its inception Akraya has grown to become the preferred staffing source to several Fortune 500 enterprises, and provides services in seven countries. Having been named Best Places to Work for three consecutive years, its many accolades include having been recognized by employees as the Best Staffing Company to Work For, the Best Staffing Company to Temp For, and more.
*All biographical information is only current up to the date of the award.
