
Abid Hira
@abidhira
I build GIS systems and data workflows that improve land rights, program monitoring, and decision-making.
What I'm looking for
I've led geospatial initiatives at Saath Charitable Trust and Cadasta Foundation, building GIS systems that improve project monitoring, land-rights documentation, and data-driven decision-making.
At Saath, I designed and implemented an ArcGIS Online-based data management and project monitoring system and streamlined workflows across 17 projects totaling $3 million in funding. My GIS leadership received an ESRI Innovation Award.
As Cadasta Foundation's regional lead in South Asia, I've developed Survey123 and Field Maps data-collection frameworks, administered ArcGIS Online and Enterprise systems, and supported mapping of 4 million hectares of land. I also create real-time dashboards, GIS models, and interactive web applications.
I enjoy using GIS to solve real-world challenges alongside governments, communities, and partners. I've trained GIS leads globally, mentored academic projects, and bring urban-planning experience to climate resilience and spatial analysis work.
Experience
Work history, roles, and key accomplishments
Board Member
Savings and Credit Cooperative Society
Jan 2022 - Present (4 years 8 months)
As a board member of a microfinance institution with a portfolio of $3.5 million, responsible for guiding the adoption and implementation of secure and robust technology systems for effective data use.
GIS and Program Specialist
Cadasta Foundation
Jan 2022 - Present (4 years 8 months)
Regional lead for South Asia, collaborating with governments and communities to document land rights and set up land information systems. Developed data collection frameworks using Survey123 and Field Maps, mapping 4 million hectares of land.
Associate Director
Saath Charitable Trust
Jan 2021 - Present (5 years 8 months)
Provide guidance and support to 160 team members, enabling efficient management of project life cycles. Designed and implemented an ArcGIS Online-based Data Management and Project Monitoring System, securing the ESRI Innovation Award in 2023.
Visiting Professor
CEPT University
Jan 2021 - Dec 2024 (3 years 11 months)
Guided 50 students in an Urban Planning Studio on Climate Resilience, using GIS to map vulnerabilities and conduct spatial analysis. Co-guided research projects and conducted a course on Data Collection and Management.
Mentor
Duke University
Jan 2021 - Dec 2021 (11 months)
Mentored students in the Duke Engage program.
Project Coordinator
Saath Livelihood Services
Jan 2019 - Dec 2021 (2 years 11 months)
Managed on-ground program activities with three thousand beneficiaries and designed database systems. Innovated tools to enhance staff efficiency and adopted innovative technologies for smooth operations.
Graduate Trainee
MetroLink Express for Gandhinagar and Ahmedabad (MEGA)
Jan 2018 - Dec 2019 (1 year 11 months)
Graduate trainee at MEGA, now known as GMRC.
Urban Planner
Development Avenue
Jun 2017 - May 2019 (1 year 11 months)
Urban planner at a startup.
Education
Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework
Dela Accelerator
Fellow, Social Entrepreneurship
Fellow of the Dela Accelerator program, co-created by Ashoka Globalizer and IKEA Social Entrepreneurship.
ESRI
Python for Everyone, Python
Completed the Python for Everyone course, focusing on Python programming.
Udemy
Basics of Python & ArcPy, Python & ArcPy
Completed the Basics of Python & ArcPy course, covering Python scripting for ArcGIS.
Microsoft
Introduction to Data Science, Data Science
Completed the Introduction to Data Science course, covering foundational data science concepts.
CEPT University
Bachelor of Urban Planning, Urban Planning
Earned a Bachelor of Urban Planning degree, focusing on urban planning and design.
Availability
Location
Authorized to work in
Salary expectations
Social media
Skills
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