Cindu Thomas-George

Cindu Thomas-George is a seasoned Inclusion and Belonging Practitioner and an award winning Professor of Communication Studies dedicated to developing catalysts of inclusion and agents of change. As the Founder and Principal Trainer of Shakti Training, she specializes in designing and leading professional development experiences that promote inclusion, team building, effective workplace communication, and intercultural intelligence.

With over twenty years of experience, Cindu has mastered the art of creating and facilitating impactful learning experiences that empower individuals to become champions of inclusion and belonging. Cindu also partners with Northwestern’s Kellogg School for Nonprofit Management teaching and coaching on the topic of inclusive leadership. A recognized public speaker, Cindu is a member of the Comadres Speakers Collaborative. 

Her passion and commitment to inclusion extends beyond her career. Cindu is deeply engaged in volunteer and community-building efforts that advance racial and gender equality. Cindu is a co-founder of the Chicago Women’s Leadership Accelerator, and the founder of both the South Asian Solidarity Movement and the Women of Color Employee Resource Group at the College of Lake County. 

Cindu resides in Chicago’s Ukrainian Village neighborhood with her husband and children.