As the world gears up to celebrate International Women’s Day 2024, the theme of “Inspire Inclusion” shines brightly, illuminating the path towards a more equitable future. In a world where diversity is our greatest strength, it’s essential to recognize the importance of inclusion, especially for women. When we inspire others to embrace and champion women’s inclusion, we ignite a powerful force for positive change. It’s not just about breaking barriers; it’s about creating a world where every woman feels valued, heard, and empowered.
With this vision in mind, we set out to gather the stories of extraordinary women from all walks of life. These stories are not just about career achievements; they’re about resilience, passion, and the transformative power of inclusion. Get ready to be inspired as we journey through these captivating tales of courage, determination, and triumph. Let’s dive in and discover how inclusion can truly change the world—one story at a time.
1. Apeksha Deshpande, Director of Marketing LTIMindtree, India
Fifteen years, a whole career chapter flipped open after that crisp MBA degree. It’s been a rollercoaster! Exhilarating climbs, heart-stopping dips, the sweet taste of success, the sting of setbacks. Friends turned colleagues, adversaries turned allies, and everything in between. But somehow, it all weaves together, forming a tapestry richer than I ever imagined.
Looking back, I’m struck by the serendipity of it all. Guiding hands, mentors who saw potential and nurtured it, critics whose barbs pushed me to sharpen my skills. Leaders who walked the talk, inspiring me to do the same. And through it all, the binding force, the secret sauce: inclusivity. It knitted us together, a team humming with diverse perspectives, a symphony of strengths propelling us forward.
This journey’s far from over. New horizons beckon, fresh challenges await. But with the lessons learned, the network built, and the fire still burning, I’m ready to write the next chapter. And who knows, maybe it’ll be the best one yet!
2.Sayeeda Raj, Former St. Mary’s Teacher and LIC Agent,India
My career journey spans 33 years, a rich tapestry woven with lessons, mistakes, relearning, and joy. It all began when a convent school sought me out to teach art and craft while I was pursuing a stitching diploma. Upon completion, I joined St. Mary’s School. However, my biggest hurdle was communicating in English. Coming from a Hindi-medium background, I struggled with speaking and writing. Yet, fueled by determination, I embarked on a journey of learning. A compassionate sister at the school extended her support, aiding me in both English acquisition and teaching. During my tenure, I seized the opportunity to travel to Holland and Germany with scout kids. These experiences, despite my limited English fluency, showcased the school’s inclusivity.
Simultaneously, I ventured into the male-dominated world of insurance as an LIC agent, with the school’s permission. Despite the challenges, my perseverance led me to success, culminating in a lifetime achievement award. These 33 years have been a mosaic of learning and cherished memories. Inclusion wasn’t handed to me on a silver platter, but with determination and support from others, I carved my path to achievement.
3. Sylvia Mehta, Partner @MI10HR, India
Let me start by saying how can we inspire inclusion by having “Women’s Day”. Women in their careers or domestic life have always been inclusive. I have never excluded anyone and that has really helped me shape my career. In my almost two decades of experience I have faced obstacles, hailing from the north east, people look at you very differently it still continues but has improved now or maybe I simply have learned to live with it. Being a woman too is not easy even today when I go for client meetings I am looked at with pleasant surprise. In the corporate world there is a lot of emphasis on DEI. Some do it just for the numbers and some really follow it. Meeting so many people in my profession has given me a good view of Inclusion. Things have changed and for the good. As an entrepreneur I ensure that we practise inclusivity at MI10HR this helps us with diverse prospective , increase productivity, employee engagement and market competitiveness. Here’s wishing all the women around a very happy and inclusive women’s day
4. Heena Dsouza, Writer & Director, Mukesh Jasoos (Hotstar) , Crushed (Amazon MiniTv), Parde Mein Rehne Do (Amazon MiniTv), Pressure Cooker (Hotstar)
Starting my career as a technical writer, my heart always longed for the creative realm. A stroke of luck led me to a role creating content for a home remedy YouTube channel, where I delved into content development and production. Interestingly, the company owner also ran a short film platform, Humaramovie. Fueled by inspiration, I penned a short film script and pitched it to them. With their support, albeit on a tight budget of 20k, I embarked on my filmmaking journey.
Securing actors and talent willing to join pro bono, I produced the film which organically went viral, garnering 3 million views. This success propelled me forward, leading to more short films and eventually my first web series.
In the realm of inclusion, I find the industry increasingly welcoming to women. However, it demands patience, resilience, and self-belief due to its unpredictable nature. Despite progress, outdated notions persist. I often find myself pigeonholed into directing “women-oriented” or light-hearted narratives, while male counterparts are favored for thrillers and gritty genres. Yet, I firmly believe gender doesn’t dictate directorial prowess; women are equally adept at helming any genre.
Another challenge arises from expectations of directorial behavior on set. Contrary to the stereotype of yelling and insults, I prefer a calm environment on set. While my team understands and appreciates this approach, external perceptions sometimes label me as too lenient due to my gender. This misconception needs rectification.
As a female filmmaker, I strive to challenge stereotypes and foster change. Hiring females in my team and leading projects like “Parde Mein Rehne do” with an all-female crew exemplifies my commitment to inclusivity and breaking barriers. I believe in contributing to change through individual actions, paving the way for a more equitable industry.
5.Reema Bannerjee,Associate Vice President Global Human Resources@Maxxton, India
From Prayagraj to Mumbai: A Comedic HR Odyssey
Welcome to my corner of the internet! Join me on a hilarious journey through the absurdities of my 18-year HR career. From the streets of Prayagraj to the lanes of Mumbai, let’s explore the comedy of errors in HR, the power of inclusion, and the joy of making a difference—one laugh at a time.
Reflecting on my HR odyssey, I chuckle at the absurdities that shaped my path. Born in Ranchi, raised in Prayagraj, and armed with a Bengali upbringing, life unfolded like a comedy of errors.
My career journey began with ambition and optimism, navigating the chaos of college to the wild world of HR in Mumbai. Surviving corporate chaos, mastering recruitment, and dodging staplers thrown in fits of rage—every day brought laughter, tears, and HR horror stories.
Change is constant, especially in careers. Shifting industries, adapting to new roles—I’ve learned to roll with the punches and laugh in the face of adversity. And amidst the chaos, making a difference in employees’ lives brings the greatest joy.
While moments of overwhelm and stapler-related incidents were inevitable, laughter remained my constant companion. Grateful for family support and inspired by inclusion, I celebrate diversity and challenge stereotypes.
In conclusion, my HR journey has been a whirlwind of laughter and learning. From humble beginnings to corporate chaos, each step taught resilience and the power of inclusion. Cheers to HR, inclusion, and the hilarity of life!”
6.Dr. Siddiqa Hussain, Founder-Director, Mindworks Bait, India
My life journey, guided by my grandmother’s cherished dua –“Lab pe aati hey dua banke tamanna meri ,Zindagi Shamma ki surat ho khudaya meri” embodies the spirit of inclusion and empowerment. Growing up in a nurturing environment that valued education and family, I pursued a career in Clinical Psychology driven by a passion for understanding people. With support from mentors, I established MindworksBait—a Counseling, Assessment, and Training Center.
In my 32-year career, I’ve learned that the more we know about humanity, the more there is to discover. This insight, gained from counseling sessions, highlights the complexity of human experience. Returning to my hometown of Udaipur, I founded MindworksBait to address the need for mental health awareness. Through internship programs, we’ve empowered aspiring psychologists, fostering inclusion in our community. My journey—from a sheltered upbringing to a seasoned psychologist—has taught me the value of resilience. As I reflect on my experiences in ‘Jung hey Zindagi,’ my shayari book, I am reminded of the power of embracing life’s challenges.
7. Hazeena Seyad,Cook Book Author Food Blogger, India
Growth by itself comes naturally with many obstacles in any field . In my case , me being the first women of my family wanting to make a mark of my own was something very new . I had to break the norms of our family traditions to do so . Including my parents who would question me in my initial days are now proud about who I am today .
When we listen and celebrate what is both common and different, we become more wiser , more inclusive and better is what I believe in .
8.Shamim RV, Sr Tax Manager at EY,USA
When I began my career 23 years ago in the USA, opportunities for women in leadership were scarce. Despite comprising nearly 50% of the workforce, less than 1% held top positions. My own experience reflects the challenges—I missed out on promotions and raises due to maternity leave and worked tirelessly to maintain our work and visa status.
As a woman of color, an immigrant, a religious minority, and a non-native English speaker, I faced twice the hurdles of my white male colleagues. But through resilience and continuous learning, I proved my capabilities.
Despite facing obstacles, I remained steadfast in my work ethic and integrity. Though recognition was challenging, I stayed true to myself, fostering inclusivity wherever I went.
Now, as I interview interns, I witness the opportunities afforded to minorities. The commitment to diversity and inclusion is evident across firms, exemplified by EY’s recent announcement of Janet Truncale as the first female global CEO.
9. Sneh Malhotra, Math Teacher@Rotherglen IB school Ontario , Canada
As International Women’s Day 2024 approaches, I find myself reflecting on my journey, which resonates deeply with this year’s theme of “Inspire Inclusion.” Born and raised in the charming town of Bhilai, India, my love for mathematics guided me through life’s twists and turns. Completing my post-graduation in math in 1987, I embarked on a fulfilling career as a high school math teacher, where I’ve always strived to not just impart knowledge but also nurture resilience and optimism in my students.
The decision to relocate to Canada in 2019 was a significant one, marked by its own set of challenges. However, fueled by my unwavering determination, I embraced the opportunity wholeheartedly. Overcoming the linguistic barrier as a Hindi medium student, I tackled the IELTS exam to obtain my Canadian teaching license. This journey wasn’t without its ups and downs, but I refused to let obstacles dampen my spirits. My dedication to my students, both in India and Canada, extends beyond the classroom as I aim to inspire academic success and personal growth alike. Additionally, my passion for spirituality and my role as a professional tarot card reader have allowed me to touch the lives of people globally, adding depth to my journey. Through it all, I’ve emerged stronger and more resilient, embodying the essence of inclusion and optimism that I strive to instill in every aspect of my life.
10.Deepti Narang,VP with a prestigious Indian Bank,India
I am a photon banker for more than a decade.My circadian rhythm oscillates between extrapolating data during the day and being a compulsive fridge opener during nights
I run on ginger tea sweetened with jaggery
Historically, women faced many challenges in their careers in corporate settings. The pervasive glass ceiling phenomenon always was a barrier to top leadership and hence we had stunted growth .However, with the concerted efforts of both organizations and corp ecosystems rooting for gender equality, things are evolving for us .Women are now seen in key leadership roles, from CEOs and board members to senior executives, setting the path for future generations of female leaders.
We have left those days behind us when women were traditionally relegated to supportive positions in corporates. Today, women are making majestic strides in the corporate world, breaking barriers, and reshaping the business ecosystem. This shift will Pave way for enhanced performance and innovation in corporates.
11. Anna Suneja, Co-Founder @Quest Real, India
Behind every woman, successful or not, there exists a robust support system. This system, often unseen but always present, is composed of family, friends, colleagues, and mentors. It is this network of relationships that provides the strength, encouragement, and wisdom that fuels a woman’s journey through life.
A support system is not just about having people around; it’s about having the right set of individuals who understand, respect, and believe in you. They are the ones who stand by you in times of triumph and trials, offering a shoulder to lean on, a listening ear, or words of encouragement when needed.
Every woman’s story is unique, shaped by her experiences, dreams, and the support she receives. I am blessed to have my support system intact, a constellation of individuals whose love and support have been instrumental in my journey. Without them, my story would have been very different.
On this Woman’s Day, let’s take a moment to acknowledge and appreciate these support systems. They are the unsung heroes, the wind beneath our wings, propelling us forward, helping us rise, and reminding us of our worth. Here’s to them, and here’s to every woman who, with their support, is crafting her unique story. Happy Woman’s Day!’
12.Mariyam Bahrainwala, Chief Operation Officer@Kings paper & stationary mart, India
I started my journey as an artist, and I can’t recall why I gave that up to enter the field of paper, stationery, and packaging at Kings Paper and Stationery Mart, but I believe it was the best decision I’ve made so far.
It’s never easy making space for yourself, and even more importantly earning respect in a male-dominated field, especially in a lane such as Bohri Ali, Pune. People are used to having sons take over their father’s established businesses, but having a daughter enter the business, is always greeted with speculation and looks of of “how long will she last”. It’s been over 10 years, a journey full of learnings, with its share of ups and downs, and hopefully an end to people’s speculation.
Working at Kings Paper and Stationery Mart, exposed me to all kinds of people: the rude kind, the egoistic kind, I’m in a hurry kind, the bargain kind, and even the sweet kind. Meeting different people has taught me the two most important business lessons:
- The importance of listening
- The importance of managing one’s ego
It wasn’t easy for me to carve a space for myself in a male-dominated society. Over time I realized for customers and my employees to start taking me seriously, I had to take myself seriously and start acting the role. The day I started believing in myself, people’s fleeting comments regarding my capabilities or being a woman did not bother me, as I knew my goal was larger than their opinions.
To be honest, the journey hasn’t been easy, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. Today I stand proud, proving to people that there isn’t any difference between a son and a daughter, ( at least in Bohri Ali, and that’s just a start).
13. Pavithra Sampath, AVP Talent Acquisition and Management Bitwise Inc,India
When it comes to the theme of inclusion, it resonates deeply with me. Inclusion isn’t just about diversity in terms of gender, race, or background—it’s about creating an environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives. In my professional life, I strive to foster inclusivity by championing diversity, amplifying marginalized voices, and challenging biases.
But let’s be real—achieving true inclusion isn’t always easy. It requires ongoing effort, uncomfortable conversations, and a commitment to dismantling barriers.
14. Aanushree Nadkarni, Software Test Lead@Amdocs,India
Just recently, I was promoted, but the journey to get here hasn’t been without its challenges.
Seven years ago, I made the decision to take a career break. It wasn’t an easy choice, but it was the best one for my two-year-old daughter at the time. Looking back, I have no regrets about stepping away from my job because it allowed me to nurture and raise a confident, bright child.
I understand that many mothers face the dilemma of balancing career and family responsibilities, and sometimes, prioritizing family is the right decision. It’s crucial that we support these women without passing judgment on their choices.
Unfortunately, there’s still a narrow-minded mindset that persists, suggesting that women can’t excel in various domains like work, driving, or technology. This outdated perspective often leads to jokes and ridicule when women demonstrate proficiency in these areas.
As a woman, I’ve learned the importance of standing by and supporting each other without judgment. We must uplift one another and challenge these stereotypes to create a more inclusive and empowering environment for all.
15.Hina Raj,Founder@Style Noosh, India
In my 14-year career journey, I’ve experienced a whirlwind of ups and downs – from enduring the thunderous shouts of bosses and navigating through heated arguments and disagreements, to the challenge of contributing marketing ideas and being included in decision-making. However, amidst these hurdles, there were also moments of genuine appreciation that fueled my growth. Working in different marketing teams across IT and non-IT sectors felt like entering different worlds with their own unique cultures. Some were akin to trying to survive a jungle safari, but I quickly learned that elbowing my way into decision-making and championing my ideas was the key to success.
Dealing with a male-dominated environment in marketing and sales taught me one thing: confidence is king. I had to strut my stuff alongside the guys, ensuring my work got noticed.
But now, as the proud captain of my own brand, Style Noosh, I’m setting sail with a crew where ‘Inspire Inclusion’ isn’t just a slogan; it’s the name of the game. Here’s to a workplace where everyone, regardless of gender, gets a fair shake – and maybe a few laughs along the way.
As we bring these 15 captivating inclusion stories to a close, Style Noosh extends our deepest appreciation to the incredible women who shared their journeys with us. Your tales are not mere narratives; they serve as wellsprings of inspiration for countless souls seeking their own paths.
But let’s remember, our journey doesn’t conclude here. Inclusion isn’t a fleeting theme; it’s an ongoing process—a testament to understanding, embracing, and empowering each other. It’s about cultivating an environment where everyone feels valued and respected.Inclusion isn’t just a checkbox; it’s a guiding principle, inviting individuals of all genders to the table. Here’s to building a world where everyone has a seat at the table and a voice that’s heard.
“Happy Women’s Day 2024 to all the phenomenal women! Here’s to happiness today, tomorrow, and forever – because let’s be real, we make the world go ’round and still have time to slay in our heels! Cheers to us!”
Absolutely inspired by the journeys of each and every beautiful women here.