When Shivnarayan “Shiv” Dhupparhiv first learned about CCT, he was simply looking for a meaningful way to be involved in the community and give back.

A research scientist by profession, Shiv spends his days managing scientific experiments, analyses, and collaborations, and solving complex problems, not consulting with nonprofits. But after attending a CCT volunteer information session, he saw an opportunity to apply his leadership and analytical skills in a completely different setting while contributing to organizations making a difference across Greater Boston.

He started as a Volunteer Consultant, working alongside a team of experienced professionals from a variety of industries. His first project was in service of Boston City Singers, with Brad Singer (now Co-Chair of CCT’s Board of Directors) as one of his team leaders. Inspired by both the work and the people, he later stepped into a new role as a Project Leader.

For Shiv, it wasn't just another volunteer opportunity. It became one of the most rewarding leadership experiences of his career.

A Pathway Into Leadership

At CCT, every Project Leader begins as a Volunteer Consultant. Volunteers first experience CCT's collaborative consulting model, work alongside experienced teammates, and learn how projects unfold before taking on a leadership role.

For Shiv, becoming a Project Leader felt like a natural next step.

"I really enjoyed my first project and wanted to experience another side of CCT," he says. "It was a chance to keep learning, work with another nonprofit, and take on a different kind of responsibility."

Leading…With Support

Leading a CCT consulting team isn't about having all the answers. Project Leaders guide the consulting process, facilitate conversations, keep projects moving, and create an environment where every team member can contribute their expertise.

First-time Project Leaders aren't expected to do it alone. Every new Project Leader is paired with an experienced co-Project Lead and supported by a Project Sponsor who provides guidance throughout the engagement. That mentorship model allows new leaders to grow into the role while learning from seasoned CCT volunteers.

"It's a very collaborative experience," Shiv says. "You're constantly learning from the people around you."

Skills That Transfer Far Beyond CCT

While the nonprofit challenges were different from his day job, the leadership lessons were surprisingly transferable. Communication, organization, adaptability, and relationship-building quickly became some of the most important skills he developed as a Project Leader.

"You have to understand where everyone is coming from, help people work through different perspectives, and keep the team moving toward a common goal."

Those same skills now influence how Shiv approaches his professional work leading multidisciplinary research teams, where collaboration and communication are just as critical as technical expertise.

His experience with CCT also strengthened his leadership credentials outside of work. During the application process for INSEAD's Executive MBA program, Shiv found himself drawing on examples from his CCT leadership experience to demonstrate how he had grown as a leader.

Seeing the Nonprofit World Through a Different Lens

One of the aspects Shiv values most about CCT is the opportunity to work alongside people and organizations far outside his own field.

Every project introduces volunteers to a new mission, a new leadership team, and a new organizational challenge. Working with professionals from diverse industries broadens perspectives and creates opportunities to learn from people whose experiences are very different from your own.

"It's fascinating to see how different organizations approach problems and how much you can learn from people with completely different backgrounds."

Advice for Future Project Leaders

For volunteers considering Project Leadership, Shiv offers simple advice: "Take the leap."

"You don't have to know everything on day one, and you won't be leading alone. The support structure is there, and the experience is incredibly rewarding."

For Shiv, becoming a Project Leader wasn't about climbing a ladder or taking on a more important role. It was about discovering a different way to contribute—one that challenged him, expanded his leadership skills, introduced him to remarkable people, and made his volunteer experience even more meaningful.

"It's one of those experiences where you give something, but you end up getting just as much back."

Interested in Project Leadership? Email projects@cctboston.org