The Asset of Complexity
Anil Hurkadli is the Learning and Strategy Officer at the Thrivent Foundation. Together, Chanda and Anil talk about their role as funders and how they’ve navigated the world of philanthropy as people of color. They also discuss Anil’s perspective on anti-racism and his belief that complexity and diversity should be treated as an asset.
Anil Hurkadli
Anil Hurkadli considers it his life’s work to ensure people are equipped with the knowledge, skills, mindsets, and relationships necessary to thrive. Anil has had the privilege of doing that work in many ways across the public, private, and social sectors throughout his career and sees his commitment to racial equity and social justice as deeply rooted in his family’s immigration story.
In his current role, Anil is responsible for ensuring that equity in every Thrivent Foundation policy and practice leads to equity in its strategic outcome areas of family-sustaining employment and financial health. He previously served as the executive director for Teach For America in Minnesota, where he led the state’s first alternative teacher licensure program. Prior to his roles at Teach For America, Anil worked for Minneapolis Public Schools, the City of Chicago, and Wintrust Wealth Management.
Anil is a graduate of Northwestern University and the University of Minnesota’s Carlson School of Management. He is a passionate advocate for students and works to improve opportunities for young people through his involvement as an appointee to the Council on Asian Pacific Minnesotans and board member for TU Dance, East Side Funders Group, and AchieveMpls.
