Rashmi Agarwal stands as a remarkable example of entrepreneurial spirit and creative leadership, charting an inspiring journey that bridges the worlds of business, art, and social change.
As the Founder and Chairperson of MAPS International W.L.L., she is also the visionary force behind the Qatar International Art Festival (QIAF), one of the most prominent international art events in the region. Rashmi’s dynamic leadership and passion have made her a trailblazer in promoting artistic and cultural exchange on a global scale.
Across industries worldwide, only a few professionals exemplify how passion and resilience can become the cornerstone of transformative success. Among them, Rashmi Agarwal has emerged as a pioneering leader, especially within the realm of Women entrepreneurship. Her accomplishments resonate across multiple sectors, offering a powerful example for the next generation of innovators and changemakers.
Having made Qatar her home since 2005, Rashmi has successfully carved a distinct niche in both the business and cultural spheres. Her journey is a testament to creativity, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to social impact. Through MAPS International W.L.L., she has cultivated a platform that promotes culture, heritage, education, and innovation. Under her leadership, QIAF has grown into an internationally recognized event, bringing together artists, designers, and cultural leaders from around the globe.
Beyond her business ventures, Rashmi plays influential roles in key humanitarian and advocacy organizations. She serves as the Chairperson and International Director of the Human Rights International Federation of India and holds significant positions within the Anti-Corruption Foundation of India in Qatar. In these capacities, she continues to advocate for education, human rights, and community empowerment.
Rashmi often highlights the importance of resilience and purpose in overcoming adversity. “Resilience helps individuals stay on their path and instils the courage to keep moving forward, no matter what,” she says. “Working with a strong sense of purpose empowers us to create meaningful, positive change.”
Her journey has been with challenges and consistent hard work. As an expatriate entrepreneur, she navigated cultural and language barriers while overcoming the complexities of forging partnerships in a foreign landscape. Balancing personal and professional commitments was yet another hurdle she successfully overcame. Nurturing a growing business while sustaining a strong family foundation demanded discipline, strategic planning, and an unwavering sense of purpose. With the support of her family, Rashmi has been able to maintain this delicate balance, never compromising on her values or vision.
Rashmi Agarwal is a passionate advocate for women empowerment and education. Through MAPS International W.L.L. and QIAF, she has provided countless artists and creatives, with platforms to showcase their work, connect globally, and receive international recognition. Her relentless efforts have garnered widespread recognition, including an Appreciation Letter from the Ministry of Culture, Qatar, and the prestigious Global Leadership in Women’s Empowerment & Social Impact Award on International Women’s Day 2025. Over the years, Rashmi has been honored with several notable accolades such as the Best NRI Women Entrepreneur Award (2019), the Asia Pride Award (2018), and the FIFA 2022 Fan Movement Certificate, acknowledging her contribution to the global football community during the FIFA World Cup — among many others.
At the heart of Rashmi’s work is her belief in the transformative power of art. Through curated exhibitions and large-scale art festivals, she continues to champion creativity as a healing force, offering support to both emerging and established artists, while fostering cross-cultural dialogue and collaboration. Her vision for MAPS International W.L.L. and QIAF extends far beyond Qatar. She aspires to elevate her organization as a global leader in the fields of art, space science, culture, and innovation.
