Memorial

Shipra Jha

xx xx, xxxx - xx xx, xxxx

With profound sadness, we share the passing of our dear colleague and friend, Shipra Jha, who left us on October 27, 2024. Shipra was not only a cherished member of our UNICEF family but also a passionate advocate for women’s and children’s rights, a role she embraced with unwavering dedication and compassion. Her absence is deeply felt by her family, friends, and all of us who had the privilege of knowing and working alongside her. Shipra joined UNICEF in August 2022 as a Gender and Development Specialist, bringing with her nearly two decades of experience and a steadfast commitment to advancing gender equality. Her impact within UNICEF was profound; she tirelessly advocated for the rights of women and girls, inspiring each of us to see our work through a more inclusive and empathetic lens. Prior to her work with UNICEF, Shipra served in several esteemed roles within national and international organizations. Most recently, she was the Head of Asia for Girls Not Brides, leading strategies across the continent and shaping the global movement to end child marriage. Her career also included key roles with Oxfam GB, Room to Read, and as a faculty member at the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration. Her academic background in International Law from Jawaharlal Nehru University and Political Science from Lady Shri Ram College reflected her lifelong dedication to justice and equality. Beyond her professional contributions, Shipra was a devoted wife and mother. She is survived by her husband, Abhishek Swami, and her two beloved children, Aranyani (20) and Arghya (15). Our hearts go out to them and her entire family during this incredibly difficult time. We invite everyone who knew Shipra to share memories, stories, and condolences on this page, honoring her legacy as a champion for gender equality, a beloved colleague, and a friend to so many. Her kindness, warmth, and dedication will forever be remembered and cherished. Please join us in remembering Shipra’s life and extending our deepest condolences to her family.

Condoleances

Preeti Das

With a heavy heart, I am penning down my thoughts. It is very shocking for me, and I still cannot come to terms with the fact that Shipra is no more. I shared a very warm bond with her; we used to catch up for coffee or lunch, whether in the office or outside. She was full of humor, and spending even a little time with her was like a tonic that filled you with lots of energy. We touched base on numerous occasions, especially after the passing of my mother. She offered her shoulder and made me comfortable. Little did I know then that she would also be leaving me so early and making her way to heaven. I have no words to express the grief and sorrow her family must be going through. My thoughts and prayers are with Abhishek and the kids. You were ful l of life, Shipra, gone too early. Rest in peace, my dear.

Preetha Prabhakaran

Shipra was a valued and respected colleague, not just within the gender network but across the organisation and in the social sector. She was a fierce champion for women and children's rights, and her passing is an irreplaceable loss for all of us. May her soul rest in peace, and my prayers are with her family and children during this very difficult time.

Geeta Narayan

I am so sorry for this tremendous loss. I only had the pleasure of meeting Shipra once, when I visited India earlier this year, and I was immediately struck by her energy, her brilliance, her commitment, and her camaraderie. She made us all feel like we mattered, just by how she paid attention to us, listened, and engaged with us. She was such a professional, intelligent, driven colleague, and UNICEF is worse off having lost such a bright star from our universe. I send my prayers to her family, may they find some peace in this difficult time.

Namrata Sood

I will always remember Shipra for her humility and kindness, may she rest in eternal peace. Heartfelt condolences to the family, our thoughts and prayers are with you during this very difficult time.

Neha Agnihotri

Sincere Apologies for this irreplaceable loss for the family and even for her colleagues. I did not work directly with her but connected with her on some occasions for her inputs. What a charming personality she was!! Om Shanti.

Amalia

I cannot imagine not seeing Shipra in office. She was a great person to talk to and always spoke with kindness. We met a week ago in the office before this news and I cannot imagine not seeing her around. My heartfelt condolences to her family; Abhishek, Aranyani and Arghya. Be assured of my prayers during this difficult time. May her soul rest in peace.

Kruti Pandya

My heartfelt condolences to the family; may the departed soul rest in eternal peace.

Reshma Agarwal

Dearest shipra, you will be deeply missed.

Pagina 1 van 6