Meet Praveena Prakash: Mechanical Engineer, Theatre Artist, Cinematographer and Photographer

Praveena’s Journey

Praveena began his career after earning a diploma in mechanical engineering and joined Actalent through a friend’s referral. Over the years, he has gained experience working with multiple well-known customers in the automotive sector, developed specialized expertise in change management and advanced into leadership roles.

Today, he manages three different lines of business for a leading global faucet manufacturer by delivering solutions tailored to diverse customer needs. His career has evolved from individual contributor to team lead, a transition made possible by his adaptability and the confidence his leaders placed in him.

Areas of Expertise

Praveena Prakash is a technical lead supporting clients in faucet manufacturing. In this role, he mentors team members, drives process improvements, resolves defects and collaborates across teams to deliver solutions.

He began his career as a Graduate Trainee Engineer at Actalent, helping clients with electrical connector details and SAP updates. His journey expanded into the automotive industry where he supported component development and change management. Now, he leads in-house projects, providing ideas and solutions that drive cost reduction and operational efficiency.

Praveena’s leadership emphasizes on collaboration, open communication and team empowerment. His goal is to foster an environment where individuals feel valued- drive innovation, growth and productivity. Driven by the principle that "the growth and development of people is the highest calling of leadership," they prioritize identifying strengths and creating opportunities for their team to excel.

Guided by the belief that “the growth and development of people is the highest calling of leadership,” he focuses on recognizing strengths and creating opportunities for his team to thrive.

Achievement and Key to Success

One of Praveena’s proudest accomplishments was leading an ERCM (Engineering Request Change Management) initiative that required adaptability, teamwork and precise execution. The experience not only delivered impact but strengthened his ability to guide people through change. “When you feel included and valued, you naturally give your best.”

He also played a key role in driving an in-house Cost Improvement (CI) project, which marked his transition from an individual contributor to a team lead. This milestone gave him confidence as a leader and taught him how opportunities often emerge from challenges. “Every challenge is a chance to discover your true potential.”

For Praveena, achievements go beyond deliverables. They are about active listening, building trust and fostering growth within the team.

Balance: Life Beyond Work

Outside of work, Praveena finds his true passion in theatre. From childhood, he was drawn to dancing and acting but struggled with stage fear. By joining group performances, he gradually built his confidence, which eventually led him to explore theatre more deeply.

Today, he is an active member of Team Neralu, a theatre group that has taught him discipline, teamwork, trust and effective communication. He has performed in productions such as Safar and Pratigney, and has also contributed to backstage production teams. Through theatre, Praveena not only overcame stage fright, but also discovered a powerful path for personal and professional growth.

He also finds joy in photography, capturing the nature and portraiture. For Praveena, photography is more than a hobby, he often spends time roaming with his camera capturing natural moments that bring both relaxation and inspiration.

His creative journey extends into cinematography as well, where he has short and acted in several short films and events, blending his artistic eye with a passion for storytelling and acting.

Three Questions for Praveena...

Q: How would you describe the work culture at Actalent?  

A: The work culture at Actalent is built on strong ethics and principles. It offers a supportive environment where leaders’ doors are always open and they continuously encourage their people to explore and grow.

Q: What advice would you give to someone just starting their career at Actalent or in your field?  

A: Be proactive and a sponge to absorb knowledge from experts. Leverage resources, ask questions and build strong relationships. Teamwork is the key to achieving both personal and company goals.

Q: What are you most excited about in the future any goals or dreams you’re currently working toward?  

A: I'm eager to continue growing my skills, take on more leadership roles and create meaningful social impact. I look forward to a long journey with Actalent. Outside of work, I’m focused on stage performances and sharpening my photography and cinematography skills.

At Actalent, we empower our employees to enhance their skills, learn new technologies and take on challenging projects that push their boundaries. Join our world-class engineering team and take your career to new heights.