Setareh Heshmat is a Singaporean ESG investment strategist, sustainability advocate, and finance leader known for combining analytical precision with purpose-driven innovation. With Persian-Singaporean roots and a global outlook, she has built her career around one central belief: the future of finance must be ethical, sustainable, and deeply human-centered.

Born and raised in Singapore, Setareh grew up in an intellectually driven environment that shaped her ambition from an early age. Influenced by a father in real estate development and a mother specializing in cultural studies, she developed a unique perspective that blends business intelligence with social awareness. Her academic journey led her to earn a Bachelor’s degree in International Business & Finance from the National University of Singapore (NUS), followed by a Master’s in Finance & Sustainability from INSEAD Singapore. She later earned her CFA certification and expanded her expertise through advanced studies in data analytics and emerging financial technologies.

Today, Setareh serves as Director of ESG Investments at a leading Singapore-based venture capital firm, where she manages and advises high-growth startups focused on climate technology, renewable energy, sustainable consumer innovation, green fintech, and ethical infrastructure. Her work centers on helping companies scale responsibly while maintaining transparency, long-term impact, and environmental accountability.

Throughout her career, Setareh has become recognized for her ability to bridge the gap between profitability and sustainability. She has advised startups integrating blockchain into ethical supply chains, consulted multinational companies on ESG transformation strategies, and spoken at regional finance and technology summits on topics such as climate-conscious investing, decentralized finance, and the future of sustainable capital markets in Asia.

Beyond her professional achievements, Setareh is deeply committed to mentorship and social impact. She actively supports female founders and young entrepreneurs across Southeast Asia, advocating for greater diversity, ethical leadership, and access to sustainable investment opportunities. One of her long-term ambitions is to launch her own impact investment fund dedicated to empowering women-led businesses and sustainability-focused ventures.

Outside the world of finance, Setareh is known for her appreciation of art, culture, and mindful living. She practices Pilates and yoga, participates in environmental charity runs, and frequently explores nature retreats across Southeast Asia. She also enjoys modern calligraphy, minimalist painting, and collecting rare books on behavioral economics, philosophy, and finance. Her private lifestyle and reflective personality are balanced by a strong public voice in conversations around innovation, ethics, and responsible growth.

What defines Setareh Heshmat most is her vision for a more conscious future — one where business success is measured not only by financial returns, but by the positive and lasting impact created for people, communities, and the planet.