Sukanya Sonowal, a final-year B.Tech. student in Biosciences and Bioengineering at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati, has been appointed as a Commonwealth Youth Peace Ambassador and will serve as Lead – Communications & Public Relations on the Executive Committee of the Commonwealth Youth Peace Ambassadors Network (CYPAN) for the 2025–2027 term.

CYPAN is a youth-led initiative that spans across the 56 Commonwealth nations, working to promote peace, mutual respect, and understanding, while actively countering violent extremism. Sonowal’s selection followed a rigorous three-stage evaluation process assessing leadership potential, peacebuilding experience, and dedication to the core values of the Commonwealth.

Hailing from Lakhimpur, Assam, Sonowal has distinguished herself through impactful student-led initiatives and leadership roles at IIT Guwahati. She has been a key contributor to Techniche, the institute’s annual techno-management festival, and is the co-founder of STEMvibe, a nationwide STEM outreach initiative that has engaged more than 3,000 students to date.

She also leads The Integral Cup, a prestigious national-level mathematics competition that attracts over 2,500 participants from India’s top academic institutions.

Beyond national borders, Sonowal has worked with global organisations such as Optiver, Qube Research & Technologies, and Jane Street, where she has showcased her skills in communication, strategic outreach, and youth engagement.

Commenting on her new role, Sonowal said, “I believe communication is a powerful tool for change. This role is a continuation of my journey to create impact through meaningful outreach.”

Congratulating her on the achievement, Prof. Devendra Jalihal, director of IIT Guwahati, said, “We are immensely proud of Sukanya. Her achievement reflects the global potential of our students.”

Sonowal’s appointment is seen as a significant milestone, not only for IIT Guwahati but also for youth leadership in the North-East region of India.

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