Nita Ambani Reflects on Harvard Dream: From Childhood Aspiration to Keynote Speaker
3 min read
Harvard India Conference 2025 witnesses an emotional moment as Nita Ambani shares her journey from an unfulfilled dream to an inspiring reality.
Cambridge, Massachusetts – In a heartfelt moment at the prestigious Harvard India Conference 2025, Reliance Foundation Chairperson Nita Ambani shared a personal story that resonated deeply with the audience. Standing on one of the world’s most respected academic platforms, she revealed how, as a young girl, she had once dreamt of attending Harvard, but her family could not afford to send her. Decades later, fate brought her to the same institution—not as a student, but as a keynote speaker, marking a full-circle moment in her life.
A Childhood Dream That Came Full Circle
Before stepping up to deliver her keynote address, 60-year-old Nita Ambani received a touching call from her mother, who reminisced about her daughter’s childhood aspirations. Speaking to the audience, Ambani recalled:
“This morning, my mother called my daughters-in-law, Shloka and Radhika, and told them—‘When Nita was young, we could not afford to send her to Harvard, even though she wanted to go. And now, Harvard has invited her to speak.’”
The revelation was met with a wave of applause from the audience, underscoring the power of perseverance and destiny.
Expressing gratitude, Ambani said, “I just want to thank you all for making my mother so happy today.” Her words, delivered with emotion, left a lasting impact on the gathering.
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A Powerhouse of Social Impact
Nita Ambani’s invitation to Harvard was no coincidence. As the driving force behind the Reliance Foundation, she has spearheaded transformative initiatives across multiple sectors, impacting nearly 80 million lives. Her work spans rural transformation, healthcare, education, sports, women’s empowerment, disaster management, the arts, and urban renewal.
The Harvard India Conference, in its official announcement, described her as “a passionate educator who leads 15 schools, including the globally ranked Dhirubhai Ambani International School, and founded Jio Institute, focusing on cutting-edge disciplines.”
Her role as a visionary leader in philanthropy, education, and social impact made her an ideal keynote speaker at the prestigious event, which attracts global leaders, policymakers, and academicians.
A Witty Moment: Nita Ambani’s Rapid-Fire Response
Beyond her inspiring speech, Nita Ambani also engaged in a light-hearted rapid-fire interview that added a touch of humor to the event. When asked to choose between her billionaire husband Mukesh Ambani and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, she delivered a sharp yet diplomatic response.
“I think Prime Minister Modi ji is good for the nation, and my husband Mukesh is good for my home,” she quipped, drawing cheers and applause from the audience.
A Story of Determination and Destiny
Nita Ambani’s journey—from a young girl with Harvard dreams to a globally recognized philanthropist, entrepreneur, and educator—is a testament to the power of perseverance. Her story serves as an inspiration for millions who aspire to create meaningful change despite challenges.
Her presence at Harvard, not as a student but as a celebrated keynote speaker, is a reflection of how success is not defined by circumstances but by relentless determination and vision. From dreams deferred to dreams realized, her story is a beacon of hope for aspiring changemakers around the world.
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