Sheena Ruparelia (born 23 December 1988) is a Ugandan businesswoman and director at the Ruparelia Group of Companies, one of East Africa’s largest family-owned conglomerates. She is the daughter of billionaire Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia and his wife, Jyotsna Ruparelia, who together built a business empire spanning banking, real estate, education, finance, and hospitality.
Sheena studied both in Uganda and the United Kingdom. She graduated with a BSc in Economics and Accountancy from City, University of London, giving her the academic grounding to thrive in business management.
Career Beginnings
Sheena began her career at Crane Bank, one of the family’s flagship businesses before its closure in 2016. Starting as a cashier, she worked her way up to business development manager, gaining experience in financial operations and client relations.
When the bank closed, Sheena transitioned into the family’s real estate arm, Meera Investments, joining as a director in 2017. This role marked her entry into high-level corporate leadership within the Ruparelia Group.
Leadership in the Ruparelia Group
As a director, Sheena oversees the group’s hospitality and real estate divisions, two of its most profitable and fast-growing sectors. She manages properties under the Speke Group of Hotels as well as several residential and commercial real estate projects.
Her portfolio includes:
- Bukoto Living Apartments – a luxury condominium project in Kampala launched in 2021 in collaboration with her brother Rajiv Ruparelia.
- Tagore Living – another upscale residential development.
- Speke Resort Convention Centre, Munyonyo – a 56,000-square-meter facility with a 4,400-seater auditorium, floating restaurant, and world-class amenities. The venue successfully hosted the 2025 Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Summit and G77+China Summit, cementing Uganda’s reputation as an international conference hub.
Her ability to deliver large-scale projects on tight deadlines has positioned her as one of Uganda’s most capable young executives.
Recognition and Awards
Sheena’s leadership has been recognized at the highest levels. On 26 January 2025, President Yoweri Museveni awarded her a National Diamond Jubilee Medal during the NRM/A Victory Day celebrations. This honor recognized her critical role in completing and hosting the high-profile international summits at Speke Resort.
The president also praised her dedication publicly and gifted her symbolic cows in appreciation of her contributions to Uganda’s image on the global stage.
Philanthropy and Social Work
Beyond business, Sheena is deeply involved in charity through the Ruparelia Foundation, the family’s philanthropic arm. She supports initiatives in education, health, and community development. Notable projects include:
- Medical Eye Camps – in Kamuli District, providing free screening and cataract surgeries.
- Support for orphanages and child welfare programs.
- Clean water projects and rural health awareness drives.
Her philanthropic efforts reflect the Ruparelia family’s longstanding commitment to corporate social responsibility.
Public Engagements and Culture
Sheena has also been active in promoting Ugandan culture and social life. In 2018, she helped organize the comeback of the Royal Ascot Goat Races, one of Kampala’s most celebrated social events. In 2020, she participated in an online forum hosted by Victoria University Kampala, discussing women in leadership and development.
Personal Life
Sheena married Jay Sakaria in 2016 in London, with her wedding ceremony held at The Savoy and a reception at The Dorchester. The couple has two daughters, born in 2019 and 2022. Despite her high-profile role, Sheena is known for maintaining a relatively private personal life.
Role in Succession and Family Business Speculation
Recent discussions in Uganda’s business community have centered around succession within the Ruparelia Group. While her brother Rajiv Ruparelia remains the Managing Director, Sheena’s growing prominence has sparked speculation about her rising influence.
Sheena continues to lead critical projects in hospitality and real estate, while Rajiv manages the group’s overall strategy and international operations. Rather than replacement, their leadership demonstrates a complementary balance—Rajiv’s strategic oversight paired with Sheena’s operational execution.
Conclusion
Sheena Ruparelia’s journey illustrates a new chapter in the story of the Ruparelia Group. With her strong educational background, proven leadership in real estate and hospitality, philanthropic contributions, and growing public recognition, she has emerged as a significant force within Uganda’s corporate landscape.
While her father, Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia, remains chairman and Rajiv continues as managing director, Sheena’s rise represents the successful grooming of the next generation of family leadership. Together, the Ruparelia siblings are shaping the future of one of East Africa’s most powerful business empires.
