Harneet Kaur was born and raised in the spiritually vibrant city of Amritsar, known not only for its rich culture and heritage but also for its unforgettable flavors. Growing up in a joint family, she was surrounded by love, stories, and the warmth of shared experiences. Watching her elder siblings get ready for school each morning sparked her early excitement for learning. From the moment she entered school herself, Harneet found joy in participating—especially in events that allowed her to express herself through dance. It was through these moments that she discovered the power of expression and the importance of being seen and heard.

Beyond academics, Harneet has always held a deep love for food—both cooking and sharing it. For her, cooking is a way to relax, connect, and build relationships. When she isn’t experimenting in the kitchen, she finds creative expression through canvas painting.

After completing school, Harneet transitioned directly into university life—a significant shift that shaped her understanding of the world. She pursued a B.A. (Hons.) in Social Sciences, followed by a Master’s in International Relations. These academic experiences expanded her worldview, giving her a nuanced understanding of society, power structures, and global dynamics.

A pivotal chapter in her journey unfolded during her time with the Punjab Youth Leaders Program (PYLP) at Sanjhi Sikhiya. The fellowship offered her an immersive experience of working closely with communities and navigating the realities on the ground. Collaborating with teachers, panchayat members, and government officials, she gained invaluable insights into how inclusive and equitable education can be shaped through collective effort.

Her work with Sanjhi Sikhiya sparked a growing interest in understanding how education policies are crafted—and more importantly, how they are implemented on the ground. This passion brought her to Simple Education Foundation (SEF), where she is currently working to build systems that ensure every child receives the inclusive, equitable education they deserve.

Looking ahead, Harneet envisions herself working at the intersection of policy and public systems—amplifying stories from the ground to influence decisions in policymaking spaces. With a strong commitment to social justice and equity, she continues to lead with curiosity, compassion, and conviction.