Naresh Sharma, an alumnus of Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya, Bareilly, belongs to the pioneering batch of 1986-1993. His remarkable journey reflects not only professional success but also an unwavering commitment to giving back to the Navodaya community and society at large.
The Navodaya Foundation: A Nurturing Ground
Naresh's time at JNV Bareilly played a significant role in shaping his character and ambition. As part of one of the early batches, he experienced the ethos of Navodaya—the emphasis on holistic education, leadership, and community building. The camaraderie, discipline, and exposure to diverse cultures left an indelible mark on him, instilling values that he would carry throughout his life.
Academic Foundations and Career Growth
After completing his schooling at JNV Bareilly, Naresh pursued a Bachelor of Arts from Delhi University (1996-1998), a stepping stone toward his professional journey. His innate curiosity and entrepreneurial spirit eventually drew him toward the dynamic world of travel and tourism.
In 2014, Naresh took a bold step and entered the travel industry, focusing on New Business Generation, where he demonstrated his talent for identifying opportunities and building meaningful connections. Today, he serves as the Director and Partner at Emerging Holidays & Travel Solutions Private Limited, a testament to his strategic vision and leadership. His ability to navigate the competitive industry has made him a key figure in creating unique travel experiences for clients while driving growth for his company.
An Advocate for the Navodaya Community
Naresh’s dedication to the Navodaya community is unmatched. He has held prominent roles, including serving as the President of the JNV Foundation (2015-16) and later as the Chairman (2016-17). His leadership during these terms strengthened the foundation’s initiatives, fostering connections among alumni and advancing its mission of support and collaboration.
Naresh is also a Trustee of the Navodaya Council of Entrepreneurs (NCoE), founded in 2003. Under his stewardship, NCoE has organized eight Business Meets for Navodayan Entrepreneurs since 2023. These events, held in various cities, including Delhi and Dehradun, have created platforms for networking, mentorship, and collaboration among alumni, further cementing the bond within the Navodaya entrepreneurial community. Naresh’s commitment to these initiatives reflects his belief in the power of collective progress.
Service Beyond Business: A Life of Social and Religious Contributions
Naresh’s impact extends beyond professional and alumni circles. A deeply social and religious individual, he has been involved in organizing Social and Religious Camps for nearly a decade. His efforts include:
- Amarnath Yatra (since 2014): Supporting pilgrims through camps that provide essential services.
- Manimahesh Kailash, Himachal Pradesh (since 2016): Organizing camps to aid devotees during this challenging pilgrimage.
- Mahakumbh 2025: Spearheading efforts to provide free food and accommodation for needy individuals, ensuring they can participate in this grand spiritual event with dignity.
These initiatives highlight his dedication to service, ensuring people from all walks of life can access support during religious journeys.
A Legacy of Leadership and Generosity
Naresh Sharma’s journey is a shining example of how one can balance professional success with community service. His unwavering dedication to the Navodaya family, his contributions to fostering entrepreneurship, and his social and religious initiatives showcase the depth of his character and leadership.
From the hallowed halls of JNV Bareilly to the bustling corridors of the travel industry, Naresh has remained steadfast in his commitment to the values instilled during his formative years. His efforts have not only inspired countless Navodayans but have also left an indelible impact on society.
As a leader, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, Naresh Sharma stands as a beacon of inspiration for the Navodaya community and beyond—a true embodiment of the Navodaya spirit of service, excellence, and community. ✨
