Abstract
This session explores how program management frameworks can be applied to complex social impact initiatives. Using the real-world case of Xcelevate Skills Foundation—a hiring-linked skilling program that prepares underprivileged youth for technology careers—the talk demonstrates how principles such as the constraint triangle (time, cost, quality), RAID management, stakeholder alignment, and agile execution are used to manage uncertainty and deliver measurable outcomes. The program itself operates as a “program of programs”, including recruitment, selection, upskilling, and placement—each with its own risks, dependencies, and stakeholders. Attendees will see how disciplined program management can address both operational complexity and human challenges, ultimately transforming opportunity for young talent.
About the speaker
Umang Doctor, founder of Xcelevate Skills Foundation, is building one of India’s most promising models for unlocking underprivileged talent into mainstream careers. He’s currently Sr Director at NatWest Group, but also runs an NGO called Xcelevate.
Launched in 2024, Xcelevate runs a highly selective one-year residential Skilling Apprenticeship Programme, with an acceptance rate of under 2 percent. The programme combines industry-led curriculum, one-to-one mentorship, and AI-assisted learning to prepare underserved youth for corporate roles.
To date, Xcelevate has enabled over 80 first-generation professionals, many from marginalized backgrounds including women, orphans, and extreme poverty, to begin careers in software engineering as white-collar professionals. Several alumni have already earned early promotions, and attrition remains below 2 percent.
Recognized as a NASSCOM IT skilling partner, Xcelevate is pioneering scalable pathways for inclusive workforce transformation across India.