Founder & President of MAPS INTERNATIONAL WLL and CEO of Qatar International Art
Festival
Rashmi Agarwal is a pioneering entrepreneur and strategic leader with over 20 years of experience driving innovation, cultural engagement, and social impact in the fine arts industry. At MAPS INTERNATIONAL WLL and the Qatar International Art Festival (QIAF), Rashmi has been instrumental in elevating the region’s art landscape, creating platforms that empower emerging voices and foster meaningful global cultural dialogue.
Championing Art, Business, and Social Responsibility
Rashmi’s unique blend of expertise in curation, strategic planning, finance, and management has allowed her to bridge the worlds of art and business effectively. Her leadership has shaped socially responsible initiatives that not only celebrate creativity but also encourage innovation and inclusivity across cultural communities. Through close collaborations with government bodies, cultural institutions, dignitaries, and globally recognized organizations, Rashmi has amplified the impact of art as a force for positive social change and development.
Extensive Experience in Arts Leadership and Business Development
Since May 2006 as the proprietor of the Oyster Silk Art Gallery, Rashmi began contributing with nearly two decades of hands-on experience in art management and gallery operations. Her role includes curating impactful art exhibitions, nurturing artistic talent, and developing unique business models tailored to the fine art market.
As a Board Member of Silk Painters International, USA, she extended her influence on the international art stage, promoting craftsmanship and cultural exchange.
Strong Academic Foundation in Corporate Law and Finance
Rashmi’s academic credentials include a Bachelor of Commerce (BCom Hons) with higher accountancy and law from the University of Calcutta, alongside Professional qualifications Degree in Corporate Law, Banking, Finance, and Securities Law from the Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI). Her legal and financial acumen equips her with the skills to navigate complex organizational and regulatory frameworks in the arts and
business sectors.
Commitment to Social Causes and Human Rights
Beyond her professional pursuits, Rashmi is deeply committed to social impact and human rights. She serves as Chairperson and International Director of the Human Rights International Federation (India) and is the International Director & National Chairperson (Qatar) of the Anti-Corruption Foundation of India. These roles underscore her dedication to ethical leadership, social justice, and advocacy.
Recognized Thought Leader and Cultural Ambassador
Rashmi Agarwal was recently honored in July 2025 in Huffmag Magazine as “A Visionary at the Crossroads of Art, Business, and Social Impact.” Her work continues to inspire a new generation of artists, entrepreneurs, and cultural leaders dedicated to sustainable and inclusive creative landscapes.
Rashmi has been honored with multiple accolades and distinguished leadership awards in recognition of her outstanding contributions, including the Best NRI Women Entrepreneur Award in 2019 and the Asia Pride Award in 2018, recognizing her entrepreneurial achievements on both national and international levels.
She was also recognized by the Qatar Ministry of Culture in 2023–2024 for her exceptional cultural and artistic contributions to the community, and received an Appreciation Award from Al Thuraya Planetarium–Katara Cultural Village for the Katara Space Science Program with Innovations & Science – Shaping the Future from Concept to Creation. 👉 Awards
Skills and Expertise Summary
- Strategic Planning & Business Development
- Art Curation, Production & Exhibition Management
- Finance, Corporate & Securities Law
- Data Analysis & Organizational Management
- Cultural Diplomacy & Cross-Border Collaborations
- Social Impact & Human Rights Advocacy
Publications & Media Features
Rashmi Agarwal has been widely featured across a diverse range of press and media outlets, earning recognition in both regional and international platforms for her visionary leadership in art and social impact.
She has numerous publications in multiple regional and international platforms including Gulf Times, The Peninsula, Qatar Tribune, Al Jazeera, and Qatar TV, highlighting her vision of art as a bridge connecting communities and fostering dialogue. 👉 Press & Media
Personal Vision
Rashmi believes in the transformative power of art to bridge cultures, inspire innovation, and drive positive social change. She remains committed to building platforms that nurture creativity, empower emerging talents, and create culturally rich experiences that extend far beyond traditional boundaries.
Recognized Excellence: A Visionary Leader in Culture and Social Impact
The Arab Leaders proudly recognize Rashmi Agarwal as a visionary and impact-driven leader who harnesses art and innovation to foster social dialogue, empower communities, and build sustainable cultural ecosystems. Her unwavering commitment to inclusive creativity, ethical governance, and global collaboration has made her a beacon of transformative leadership in the arts and social sectors across the Arab region.
Rashmi Agarwal is more than an art and business leader; she is a catalyst for social change, a champion of cultural enrichment, and a trusted visionary forging new paths at the intersection of creativity and impact.
