Introducing Sonia Pramanick: Catalyst for Sustainable Food Systems
Plant Futures got the chance to chat with Challenge Lab alum Sonia Pramanick recently.
Graduating from the University of California, Berkeley in 2024, Sonia's journey is closely entwined with the innovative ethos of the Plant Futures Challenge Lab. For Sonia, Plant Futures wasn't merely an academic venture—it was a transformative experience that bridged the gap between classroom theories and real-world impact.
What led you to want to become a part of Plant Futures?
I joined Plant Futures through the Challenge Lab at UC Berkeley last year. Before that, most of my business courses had focused on analyzing the prior successes and failures of a firm. While that style of learning is valuable, Plant Futures excited me because I got the opportunity to engage with company leaders in real time. During the Challenge Lab, I had the chance to work hands-on with an emerging start-up, and even see the tangible results from some of my team's recommendations. As someone passionate about the food industry and plant-based nutrition, Plant Futures meshed incredibly well with my personal interests as well. That said, access to a vibrant network of other students and professionals with similar interests was another factor which drew me towards Plant Futures.
What do you do now professionally?
Right now, I have just begun my senior year at UC Berkeley. Besides my studies, I am also an intern with Adda Veggie, a vegetable forward and plant-based ground meat alternative. Ever since I started with Adda Veggie this past January, I have had various responsibilities in marketing, sales, operations, strategy, and even recipe development. I worked there full-time this past summer, but now that the semester is underway, I am taking a step back from day-to-day business operations and sales. Instead, I’m getting the chance to tackle exciting projects like new product ideation/development and financial modeling.
How has your involvement with Plant Futures played a role in your personal and professional path?
Plant Futures has played a significant role in my time at Berkeley. For example, the Challenge Lab offered me the unique opportunity to meet and work with graduate students across various programs. For undergrads, such classes are few and far between, and I really value the learnings and friendships I came away with. I also owe my current internship to the Plant Futures Slack. I would have never connected with Adda Veggie if I hadn't seen their post in the opportunities channel. And for that, I am forever grateful.
Do you have any advice for current students regarding their studies, taking advantages of programs on campuses, looking for jobs in the food system etc.?
I would encourage other students to be as open to new opportunities as possible! Be willing to take a chance to explore different areas, whether that be a new industry or role you never envisioned yourself enjoying. Most importantly, don’t let fear of the unknown be what stops you from discovering a new passion or skill. If you have even the slightest interest in food, the plant-based sector, or regenerative agriculture, the Plant Futures Challenge Lab could be a great option for you. And if you aren’t ready for a semester long commitment, I would encourage you to join the PF Slack. I’ve found it to be a really active channel, and a convenient way to keep an eye out for new opportunities!
What does the food system of your dreams look like?
3 words: fresh, healthy, and delicious. I believe in a food system where no one is reliant on the sugary and highly processed foods which have contributed to the rise of obesity in the United States.
Examining Sonia's trajectory prompts a reflection on the symbiotic relationship between educational endeavors and pragmatic engagement. Sonia’s journey underscores the imperative for universities to foster such environments, acknowledging their role in nurturing the leaders of sustainable industries.
