Assam-based entrepreneur Jahnabi Phookan, who founded Lahé Looms, has earned a coveted spot among the winners of the 2026 Meaningful Business 100 (MB100). This global initiative highlights business leaders who successfully merge commercial enterprise with vital social and environmental contributions.
Participating in the MB100 programme will allow Phookan to integrate into an international network of social entrepreneurs, impact investors, and corporate sustainability heads. The platform equips selected individuals with capacity-building tools and pro bono assistance through partnerships with prominent institutions.
Key collaborators supporting this global initiative include EY, Hogan Lovells, Cadwalader, Forster Communications, Northeastern University London, and Portman Marylebone.
Selection and Expert Evaluation
Reflecting on the recognition through a social media post, Phookan expressed deep gratitude, calling it an immense privilege to join the annual programme that honours leaders building scalable answers to tough global challenges.
She stated that she looks forward to collaborating with fellow honourees and engaging deeply within the wider Meaningful Business ecosystem of change-makers, impact investors, and sustainability champions. The 2026 honourees were meticulously chosen by a panel of expert judges from a pool exceeding 900 nominations.
Every nominee underwent rigorous evaluation across five core pillars, which include equity, impact, innovation, leadership, and scalability.
Leadership Background and Industry Experience
Meaningful Business founder and CEO Tom Lytton-Dickie congratulated Phookan, emphasizing that her work at Lahé Looms brilliantly illustrates how scalable business models combined with modern approaches can drive concrete positive change.
Now celebrating its eighth year, the MB100 programme serves as a collaborative hub for leaders committed to aligning corporate profit with a clear sense of purpose, facilitating professional growth and knowledge exchange.
Phookan brings over three decades of extensive experience in the tourism sector and in promoting Assam and Northeast India. Alongside launching Lahé Looms, she serves as the co-founder and director of Jungle Travels India and the Assam Bengal Navigation Company. Furthermore, she previously led the FICCI Ladies Organisation (FLO) as its National President during 2020-21.
