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Inspiring Women

Inspiring Women Every Wednesday: Vidya Mohan

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Let’s Get Inspired In Conversation with Vidya Mohan – Preeti Juneja Q. Who has been your biggest inspiration in your career, and why? My source of inspiration has varied depending on the phase of life I’ve been in. Most of the time, it has been colleagues turned friends who share similar values who’ve played a significant role in my journey. Spending time with nature also inspires me in unexpected ways. For eg: Hiking or Trekking has inspired me to let go of my fears, enjoy the journey and rely on myself till I reach my destination. Q. How would you describe your leadership style, and how has it evolved over time? Initially, I would focus on setting goals and then do everything possible to collaborate along with the team and help deliver the best possible, which leans more towards ‘servant leadership style.’ Over the years, my leadership style has evolved to being more situational. Being agile to a particular situation, being clear and directional, being participative are some predominant traits. Q. What advice would you give young women looking to enter this field? Focus on developing authentic relations along with technical capabilities, which is the foundation for your career. Rest if you must, but never quit! Q. What skills do you think will be most important in the future? Communicating authentically, navigating ethical challenges around misinformation and data privacy Data analytics to tailor messaging and improve campaign effectiveness Content creation Strategic Thinking and problem solving Building relationships in a hybrid world Reputation management Crisis management On Leadership Lessons: Q. What is the most valuable leadership lesson you’ve learned in your career so far? Humility, character, values and convictions are non-negotiables. Q. How do you approach failure, and what lessons have you learned from it? Well, I whine for a while, then talk to myself for hours and remind myself that I’m an eternal optimist. So, I dare to hope, talk to people who give me hope and then act. It’s just not in me to give up easily to any situation that seems like a failure. I have seen some brilliant people failing so I’ve learnt that failure is situational and does not define a person’s ability to succeed. It’s always a matter of choice whether you want to get consumed by failure or take a chance to learn from it. Q. What strategies do you use to build trust within your team? Trust is based on instincts and not strategies. It is built on the foundation of being yourself and feeling psychologically safe. Q. Can you explain how effective communication impacted your leadership experience? Whether it’s an organisational change or goal setting for the team, effective communication helps in building and maintaining trusted relationships, clarity in thought and action, resolving conflicts and achieving common goals. Q. How do you empower others to take on leadership roles within your team? I empower them by communicating openly about what I see as their strengths and areas of improvement at equal intervals to manage personal and professional expectations, encourage them take on ownership in projects where their strengths will give them the confidence to lead, provide them with necessary support in challenging situations, appreciate their contributions and trust them to collaborate and do their best. DREAMWEB INDIA IS GRATEFUL TO VIDYA MOHAN  FOR HER VALUABLE TIME TO THIS REMARKABLE INTERVIEW. WE WISH HER SUCCESS IN HER FUTURE ENDEAVOURS. Share this article Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Email WhatsApp Do you have a question for Vidya Mohan ? Write to us at preeti.juneja@dreamwebindia.com About Author Vidya Mohan Vidya Mohan is Chief Corporate Communications, KPMG in India. She leads efforts in shaping the firm’s public image and managing its communication strategies. Proficient in crafting compelling narratives, managing crisis communications, executing integrated marketing strategies, fostering media relations, and leading corporate communication initiatives. 27th November 2024 Share this article Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Email WhatsApp Inspiring Women More Interviews Published by preetidwindia I’m an entrepreneur, a marketing specialist, and a blogger. I work to help companies, brands, people with marketing strategies. I envision everyone having a blog of their own. My efforts are focused on this vision. For this, I help my audience with blog set-up, content creation, and content marketing. View all posts by preetidwindia

Inspiring Women

Inspiring Women Every Wednesday: Shailja Saraswati Varghese

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‘ET Panache Woman of the Year 2024’ by the Economic Times; ‘2024 Woman Advertising Maven Award’ by Adtech Today She has trained corporate professionals and mentored young entrepreneurs in areas like Advertising, Marketing, Consumer Understanding, Branding, Social Media. She has published in International Journals and presented papers in national and international conferences and is involved in international joint research projects in the area of advertising. She is a visiting faculty at management institutes of repute in India and overseas. Her teaching, research and consultancy interests are in the area of Advertising, Branding, and Social Media. A passion for storytelling and media-fueled her journey into the content industry. Starting in television, Shailja gradually transitioned into digital media, where she continued to make significant strides. Beyond content creation, her interest in personal growth led her to mindfulness, where she now shares her insights as a trainer and motivational speaker.In addition to her media career, Shailja is deeply committed to yoga and meditation. She believes mindfulness is a crucial tool for enhancing well-being in both personal and professional spheres. Shailja frequently conducts workshops on integrating mindfulness into daily life, sharing her learnings through her YouTube channel, where she discusses inspiring personal growth and motivation topics. Her success story reflects the importance of perseverance, personal growth, and a deep commitment to uplifting others. Recently, her contributions have been recognized through prestigious awards such as the ‘2024 Woman Advertising Maven Award’ by Adtech Today and the ‘ET Panache Woman of the Year 2024’ by the Economic Times. Shailja Saraswati continues to be a force of inspiration, both in the media world and beyond, using her platform to spark change and empower women everywhere. Her success story reflects the importance of perseverance, personal growth, and a deep commitment to uplifting others. Recently, her contributions have been recognized through prestigious awards such as the ‘2024 Woman Advertising Maven Award’ by Adtech Today and the ‘ET Panache Woman of the Year 2024’ by the Economic Times. Shailja Saraswati continues to be a force of inspiration, both in the media world and beyond, using her platform to spark change and empower women everywhere. Let’s Get Inspired In Conversation with Shailja Saraswati – Preeti Juneja Q. What inspired you to launch “Unstoppable Woman”? “Unstoppable Woman” is a collaborative platform dedicated to empowering women and sharing impactful stories of resilience and success. My inspiration comes from my mother, mentors, and industry leaders who have championed innovation. My spiritual approach to life, combined with mindfulness and self-mastery, has been a guiding force in my personal and professional journey. Q. Every life story offers something significant. What in particular interests you and why? Women supporting one another to create a strong network for navigating both personal and professional challenges is what interests me. Through my podcast, Unstoppable Woman, I aim to amplify the voices of strong, determined women from diverse backgrounds, fostering a community of support and inspiration. The podcast serves as a platform for celebrating triumphs, overcoming adversity, and driving positive change. Through this platform, ‘Unstoppable Woman’, I feel women from all walks of life come together to share stories, learn, and uplift one another. Q. It’s been an incredible year for you, with honors like the ‘2024 Woman Advertising Maven Award’ by Adtech Today; ‘ET Panache Woman of the Year 2024’. What is your message to young professionals? My message to aspiring entrepreneurs and professionals is simple yet powerful – stay true to your passion and never give up, no matter the challenges. I believe in the importance of continuous learning and adaptability in an ever-changing industry. Q. When and How did your spiritual journey begin? My spiritual journey kicked off very early on in childhood, but I took notice of it during a tough time in my life. This is when I actively turned to meditation and mindfulness, which opened doors to deeper spiritual exploration. It’s been a transformative experience for over 2 decades now that’s brought me inner peace and a renewed sense of purpose. This is fundamental to who I am and where I am headed. Q. What is the future of content marketing? What AI capabilities, tools and techniques do you use to enhance content in your professional space? The future of content marketing looks bright, primarily due to AI advancements. I utilize AI tools like GPT-4 for efficient content creation and predictive analytics to identify trends and optimize strategies. AI also enables hyper-personalization, tailoring content to engage specific audience segments, while SEO tools help enhance reach by analyzing keywords and user behavior. Overall, integrating AI enriches the quality and effectiveness of our content, making it an exciting time in the field. Rapid-Fire:  What are the essentials for hosting a good podcast? To create a successful podcast, I believe it’s essential to know your purpose and target audience, which takes time to develop. Planning engaging content with high audio quality is vital, along with maintaining consistency and relevance in your episodes. Authenticity goes a long way; being yourself helps foster a genuine connection with listeners. Additionally, seeking organic promotional strategies before diving into sponsorships can make a significant difference. 2. With the rise of video marketing, do you think long-form blogs are gradually becoming obsolete? Regarding blogs, I see them as timeless. They not only enhance SEO but also provide detailed insights that remain valuable. The evolution of content formats tends to cycle, and I believe blogs will continue to coexist with newer media, such as video. 3. One book everyone must read? I would recommend everyone read “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee. It offers profound lessons on justice, morality, and empathy, themes that resonate strongly with us today. One-Liners: 1.Storytelling is: The heartbeat of communication; it transforms facts into relatable, unforgettable experiences that resonate deeply with our audience. 2. A not-to-be-missed daily routine for mental health & wellness is: Grounding yourself in gratitude—just a few minutes each day to reflect on what you’re thankful for can shift your mindset and enhance your overall

Inspiring Women

Inspiring Women Every Wednesday: Nona Walia

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India’s Notable Personalities by BusinessTalkz Magazine in 2024 She is an active member of the National Council, WICCI Arts National Leadership Council (2024). As part of the Women’s Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Nona leads initiatives empowering women in Arts and Literature, helping to shape a global ecosystem that fosters creativity and collaboration across stakeholders and government initiatives. WICCI is a prominent national body championing women’s growth in the arts. In 2024, she was recognized as one of India’s Notable Personalities by BusinessTalkz Magazine and awarded the Top Voice Badge for content development on LinkedIn. A former Executive Editor of Conscious Carma, India’s first global e-magazine focused on Sustainability and Responsibility, Nona editorially highlighted issues surrounding Wellness, Sustainability, and Mental Health. Her current research area includes Wellness at Workplaces — exploring how fostering healthy, supportive environments is key to future workplace success. Nona is also a motivational expert, helping people live their best lives. A certified Wellness Warrior and blogger, she shares insights on health, well-being, and personal growth through her blog and YouTube channel. She has completed a Science of Well-Being course from Yale University and continues to inspire others through her wellness-focused content. Published Works & Contributions In addition to her books, Nona has written for Thrive Global, Entrepreneur Magazine, and Her Circle, contributing articles on mental well-being, personal development, and societal challenges. Her insights have also been featured in prominent publications like Midday Mumbai, where she was recognized as an inspiration for mental health. Nona’s journey in journalism spans over 24 years as a Senior Assistant Editor at The Times of India, where she worked across multiple platforms including Times Life, Delhi Times, Economic Times, and Femina. She was also the editor for Rouge, a section focused on women’s empowerment. Her work has included breaking news, features, headline writing, and media relations, and she has coordinated the Times supplements across major cities. With a deep expertise in both print and digital media, Nona Walia continues to use her platform to advocate for mental wellness, sustainability, and women’s empowerment in arts and literature. Let’s Get Inspired In Conversation with Nona Walia – Preeti Juneja Q. Looking back on your journalism days, what topics did you enjoy covering the most? How does that compare to the content you curate now for social media? We live in times of rapid and dynamic change. Content is fast changing. Creating content for newspapers was a different experience. It was the golden period of lifestyle; the economy had opened up, and we were exposed to a different and new world. It was interesting meeting people and interviewing them — the newsmakers, changemakers, the pathbreakers. It was exciting being in the middle of the adventure of a newsroom. The pace and energy were always pulsating with action. Cut to now, writing on social media is a different experience. The reaction is immediate. The response is intense. You interact with people immediately. The wheels of content are always turning and churning. What works one day won’t work the next day. The algorithm is more dynamic. But a lot of stuff that gets boasted isn’t really good content. The authenticity of posts can be manipulated, which challenges authentic content creation. Q. How does someone even begin With so many new trends emerging in the wellness space? Tell us about your journey of cleansing the mind and owning your energy to bring the magic from within you. Everyone has their own unique personal wellness story. We live in extremely challenging times, and nothing is given. The wellness space is extremely new yet getting cluttered. Everyone needs to create their own wellness plan. Wellness is the core of my work, be it wellness at work, mental health, own your energy or creating their magic within — all my current writings are born from the will to bring change in people’s wellness curve. I believe that collectively, we can make a difference to make the world better. Quality of life will be directly dependent on the wellness quotient. Workplaces are also crucial spaces to make wellness more inclusive. Q. The hashtag “Women Empowering Women” is widely popular, but have you encountered real-life examples, either in your personal or professional life, that you’d like to share to inspire and encourage this movement? Right now, it’s a new movement—workplaces in the 90s or 2000s or even up until Covid did not resonate with this idea. If women were empowering women, there were some women bringing women down. I think this new wave comes with the philosophy that — all women can rise together. I think it’s powerful. I’ve experienced powerful women who helped me rise, and I’ve also experienced women who made me sink. You just have to find the right tribe. I hope this movement finds more power; more women can relax and not feel triggered or threatened. Q. Do you think influencer marketing is here to stay? What are your thoughts on its future? I’m highly sceptical of influencer marketing. I’d instead give all my vote to — more authentic marketing. We all take influencer marketing with a pinch of salt these days. The curve might soon change. I hear that influencer marketing is a rage now. Rapid-Fire: 1. What was the turning point in your life? When I lost my father.   2. Tips you would like to give budding writers? Write for yourself.   3. One area of interest you feel deeply connected to and continuously explore? Sustainability and wellness; Arts   4. As a solid media and communications professional, did a corporate communications or public relations role ever cross your mind? I do have a degree in Advertising & Public Relations. But I never really got a chance to be on the other side of things.   5. What quality can one develop over time that will help in life? Invest in Yourself.   One-Liners: 1. A dying art that you would like to promote: Handicrafts — anything that is created with hands is

Inspiring Women

Inspiring Women Every Wednesday: Padmashri Shovana Narayan

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Celebrating 75 Years: Shovana Narayan, India’s most celebrated Kathak Guru A multifaceted pioneer, Shovana has left an indelible mark as a performer, choreographer, guru, researcher, organizer, and author. Her performances, which blend deep-rooted classicism with innovative artistry, are celebrated for their freshness and social consciousness. Since her debut in 1954, she has mesmerized audiences across the globe at leading national and international festivals. Her shows before Heads of State have been lauded as ‘captivating,’ ‘sheer poetry,’ and ‘sublime joy transcending boundaries.’ Shovana Narayan is renowned for her unique contributions to Kathak and beyond. She seamlessly balanced dual careers as a professional dancer and an Indian Administrative Service (IAAS) officer, achieving excellence in both fields. Her work addresses various social issues, including environmental concerns, women’s rights, and human rights, showcasing her commitment to meaningful causes. She has pioneered contemporary interpretations of classical literature and mythology, engaged in inter-faith and intercultural dialogues, and introduced innovative dance genres. Her service on various academic and cultural committees further underscores her influential role in shaping contemporary Indian art. Shovana Narayan stands as a paragon of Kathak. Her eclectic taste, bold views, and luminous personality continue to inspire and challenge audiences across generations. Let’s Get Inspired In Conversation with Shovana Narayan – Preeti Juneja Reminiscing About My Childhood Days: Academics and Dance I come from a family with a rich cultural heritage, particularly on my mother’s side. Our family embraced all of Saraswati’s arts, including scholastics, performing arts, visual arts, and more— essentially, all sixty-four Kalas. Every child in the family was immersed in these arts and trained accordingly, though the direction they ultimately took depended on their interests. Besides music and the performing arts, my mother’s interests included literature in Sanskrit and Hindi, and I grew up surrounded by the Bhagavad Gita, Mahabharata, and Puranas. When I was around four years old, brimming with the boundless energy typical of children, I was introduced to the world of dance. My first guru, Guru Sadhna Bose, the renowned dancer and actress of that era, was taken aback when she first saw me. She told my mother in Bengali, “You didn’t bring a child; You brought a baby!” Besides training in dance, I also attended formal schooling at Loreto Convent, Calcutta. I fully immersed myself in dance, and I loved academics as well. Dance became my aatma – my soul, while the other activities continued to nourish my mind. Interestingly, I was also introduced to classical music. However, I never took it seriously, and my sister never pursued it in dance. We were given the opportunity to explore various fields, but we both had a strong inclination towards scholastics as well. As a result, we followed two parallel paths – one in the arts and one in academics – and both have continued to shape our lives. Reminiscing About My Childhood Days: Family and Personal Interests Women supporting one another to create a strong network for navigating both personal and professional challenges is what interests me. Through my podcast, Unstoppable Woman, I aim to amplify the voices of strong, determined women from diverse backgrounds, fostering a community of support and inspiration. The podcast serves as a platform for celebrating triumphs, overcoming adversity, and driving positive change. Through this platform, ‘Unstoppable Woman’, I feel women from all walks of life come together to share stories, learn, and uplift one another. I don’t come from a family lineage of traditional artists. My grandfather, my Nanaji, was a prominent figure in Indian history, serving imprisonment in 1919 during the freedom struggle and serving in the Central Assembly from 1922-23. Originally from Bihar, he was a great freedom fighter, a prominent lawyer, and a zamindar. Tragically, “not only did he die in 1930, but his two sons also lost their lives in the struggle for independence”. His younger sister was one of the first four female members of the Bihar Assembly in 1937 and notable in her own right. Given this rich legacy of nationalism, it is no wonder that the Bhagavad Gita was deeply ingrained in our lives, often sung at home, and became a significant part of my upbringing. As a child while I was singing ‘वनिता की ममता न हुई…’ and ‘हिमाद्रि तुंग श्रृंग से प्रबुद्ध शुद्ध भारती’ while also ‘Baba, Black Sheep Have You Any Wool’. My reading varied widely from Jai Shankar Prasad’s modern Hindi literature to Enid Blyton’s children’s books, and later included Shakespeare. At school, I loved physics, anything related to mathematics, and logic. This interest led me to pursue a PhD in Physics. By then, I had become recognized as a solo professional dancer. At one point, I pursued two careers simultaneously: dance and civil service.Today, my interests range from archaeology and history to anything logical and analytical. Anecdote I: I was 26 years old when my father died in a train accident in 1977. The next day, I gave the Agni. Later, my sister collected the Asthi and then went to Haridwar to complete all the final rituals. My mother was strong and gave me the courage: ‘This sorrow will not go away, but life will go on.’ I went to Mathura to perform at the festival only a few days after the tragedy. My parents gave me all the opportunities, with the only condition being, “Whatever you do, don’t do it half-heartedly. Do it well. Do it with depth. Do it with dedication. Do it with honesty and sincerity.” My Relationship With My Mother I remember this lesson vividly, as if it had happened just yesterday. I was eight years old then, deeply immersed in my studies, when my mother, a strict disciplinarian, suddenly came in, closed my books, and told me to leave. I was taken aback and scared, wondering what I had done wrong. She told me, “You aren’t studying; your mind is wandering”. I don’t want to hear you say that you have studied for so many hours. Nothing would have gone into your mind if I had

Inspiring Women

Inspiring Women Every Wednesday: Dr. Falguni Vasavada

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Professor. TEDx Speaker. Content Creator. She has trained corporate professionals and mentored young entrepreneurs in areas like Advertising, Marketing, Consumer Understanding, Branding, Social Media. She has published in International Journals and presented papers in national and international conferences and is involved in international joint research projects in the area of advertising. She is a visiting faculty at management institutes of repute in India and overseas. Her teaching, research and consultancy interests are in the area of Advertising, Branding, and Social Media. She is a TEDx speaker & is frequently invited to speak at reputed forums/panels/ roundtables. She Speaks on Advertising, Branding, Marketing, Social Media, Personal Branding, Gender Equality, Body Positivity,  Women  Empowerment,  Happiness     as  a Lifestyle  and  Motivation Dr. Falguni Vasavada is the Keynote speaker in multiple forums on Marketing, Advertising, PR, Women Communities, Social Media, Facebook, Startups and more. Her motto of life is – make the best of whatever you have. Appreciate the positives and live life to the fullest! Let’s Get Inspired In Conversation with Dr. Falguni Vasavada
– Preeti Juneja Q. Through your consistent and authentic posts on Instagram, where you genuinely connect with people and share your thoughts, you’ve successfully strengthened your personal brand. You’re recognized as independent, fashionable, outspoken, and socially connected. With over 243k followers today, what key lessons have you learned from using this platform, and what do you consider the best practices for leveraging Instagram for personal branding? The lessons I have learned on Instagram, through my growth, journey, and organic engagement, are that you need to be very consistent in everything you do. So, whatever content you create, you must be consistent because this is live and social media. This consistency comes in two ways: Content and Conversations. The content that you are creating on a daily basis has to resonate with your audience. To the conversations germinating out of your content, you must continuously be conversing with your followers because it’s a two-way street. Social media is an interactive medium. Over and above consistency, content, and conversations, the golden principle of personal branding is authenticity. So, what kind of authentic content do you bring? How authentic are you as a person, right? What is your genuineness of w atever you speak? All that matters. Q. In the recently released e-book “She Leads with Courage” by Shenomics, you were featured among 23 remarkable women. In India, almost every woman, regardless of her education or cosmopolitan background, often faces challenges related to male dominance or patriarchy on their path to success. How do you support and guide women on campus who might have similar experiences to share but not enough courage to overcome? Yes, in the patriarchal world, all women have to struggle, and it’s challenging to grow. As a working professional also, in my younger years, I had to prove more than my male counterpart that I am a serious career woman; I’m seriously interested in growing in my career. So, I have also faced all those challenges. Since I have grown with these challenges, I feel that every senior woman or woman in a leadership role must have a safe space for younger, vulnerable women just entering the workforce. So, just by being somebody’s safe space, you’re giving a lot of moral support to women to grow. Q. Speaking on advertising, if you were to bring a change in society through this medium, what will it be on? And where would you want these ads to be displayed to have the most impact? The biggest change advertising can bring to society is not just reflecting on what is happening but challenging what is happening and showing the right path. So, not cementing stereotypes but breaking stereotypes, talking about more equal gender roles, giving equal space to all kinds of audiences, and promising inclusivity—all these things can be brought about as a change by advertising. And where would I like it to be published? Both mass media and social media. While social media targets a certain group of consumers, mass media is still relevant in a country like India. So, to penetrate rural markets and smaller towns, mass media like TV, magazines, newspapers, and radio is still a very potent medium. Yes, both digital and social media, as well as mass media. Q. As a teacher, how do you engage with curious minds? Can you recall the most challenging question a student has ever asked you? Over the years, as a teacher, I have felt both are important—content and pedagogy. However, because Gen Z has lower attention spans, engagement has become the key in classes especially. So, your pedagogy, how you teach, how you engage with students, what in-class activities you can do to engage them further, and how you use technology have all become of prime importance. Q. How do you keep up with your relationships with college alumni, and do they play an important role in your life? In today’s age, the best way to keep up with relationships, whether with alumni, my friends, or my batchmates, is to use social media. Thanks to social media, I am in touch with almost everybody because I am a very active content creator on LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. These are different ways in which I also connect with my own networks of people. And that is the easiest way to keep in touch. Rapid-Fire: One Indian tradition that makes you proud? One Indian tradition that makes me proud is the family system we have in India and the people power we are always surrounded with as Indians. 2. One skill every marketer must have? One skill every marketer must have is observation because things are rapidly changing in the ecosystem. So, whether it is AI, tech, or consumer insights, observation skills have to be very powerful. 3. Your thoughts on influencer marketing as a career? Influencer marketing will only grow in the country, and that’s why it’s good as a career. Still, I suggest that influencer marketing should be your second career, not

Inspiring Women

Inspiring Women Every Wednesday: Renuka Puri

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Late Shri Arun Jaitley, pre-budget She was born in Himachal Pradesh and later pursued graphic design at Arts College, Chandigarh. After working in an advertising agency and freelancing for several magazines and the U.P. Tourism Department, Puri joined The Indian Express in 1997. Puri has covered many subjects, including political developments, cultural events, and fashion shows. It marked her entry into more challenging news coverage, and she later pushed to cover high-profile events like Fashion Week, where she pioneered greenroom photography. Nirbhaya case in 2012, Delhi Renuka Puri’s work has been recognized for its depth and quality, earning her a spot as one of Fuji Films’ “super six women photographers” in 2005. Today, she continues to capture compelling stories through her lens, contributing significantly to Indian journalism​. Renuka Puri is known for her ability to capture the essence of a moment, offering readers a visual narrative that complements the newspaper’s written content. Her photographs have contributed to the coverage of significant national events and have been widely recognized for their quality and depth. Hon. Pratibha Patil, 12th Former President of India Let’s Get Inspired In Conversation with Renuka Puri – Preeti Juneja Q. How did you get started in photography? I graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Chandigarh. After completing my degree, I struggled to find a job in the photography field. So, I decided to try my luck at an advertising agency that needed some images. When I showed them my work the next day, my boss remarked, “You’re in the wrong profession, Renuka. You should be in photography.” For a moment, I thought he was implying that he didn’t want me there. So I asked, “What do you mean by that? Are you suggesting I should quit?” He responded, “No, not at all. I believe your photography is powerful, and there aren’t many women in this profession.” He was the one who suggested I pursue photography. When I mentioned that I didn’t have any contacts, he recommended I visit Rashtriya Sahara, where a friend of his worked, as they were preparing to launch an English magazine. I took my portfolio there, and the person in charge reviewed my work. Although the magazine’s launch would take some time, he advised that I start freelancing with them in the meantime. Soon after, I began freelancing for them. Early in my career, I covered live cricket events. My mentor at the time suggested I pursue journalism, recognizing that sports wasn’t my primary focus. He introduced me to someone at The Financial Express, where I trained for a year before moving to The Indian Express in 1997. I’ve been working here ever since. Q. If you were to use photography as a medium to influence society or create change, what would you focus on? I’m eager to photograph issues related to women. There’s still so much I want to explore in this area. Women as a subject in photography are incredibly powerful and colorful. My first book was on Tihar jail. I met so many different kinds of women over there. Few were guilty, and few were not, but they were happy. Living To The Fullest, Tihar Jail After that, I worked on a project for an NGO focused on mentally challenged women, which resulted in another great book. A writer, a painter, and I were given the task of capturing their life stories through art. This was a meaningful project which I feel found me, rather than the other way around. I photographed the first battalion of BSF women stationed at the Wagah border. These powerful women, who leave their families behind to serve our country, inspire me to pursue more projects focused on women. I met Mary Kom and began following her career, and we’ve since become good friends. I’ve built up a great collection of her photographs, but I haven’t displayed them anywhere yet. Mary Kom, the sporting mother at home In my job, I also get a chance to meet parliament women. On Jaya Bachchan, she knows photography. And I have got (rare) lovely pictures of her smiling and laughing. Q. In photojournalism, where the same subject often appears in multiple newspapers, how do you make your work stand out from the rest? What goes through a photographer’s mind in these situations? Yes, yes, you are right. Sometimes, photography is accidental also. And sometimes it depends on what kind of a position you are getting. Some may think it’s a wrong position to stand, but it’s a good position for you. Everybody chooses the camera angle: right, left, down, or up. And it’s totally up to the event, like what kind of an event. And you have to be very quick. Immediately, you have to decide whether I stand here or right. Anecdotes: The Prime Minister tweeted one of my photographs and asked my office to present him with that picture. The story goes like this: After an all-party meeting, when everyone had their cameras down, I decided to follow the Prime Minister. I’m not sure why I chased him, but then I noticed a glass door ahead of me. Through the reflection on the glass, I captured an intriguing shot of the Prime Minister with all the MPs visible in the background. It turned out to be a very interesting photograph. In a particular event like The Padma Shri, where you must photograph only the awards, you must still be very careful about your right and left and what is happening there. Q. Tell us about places that were not very much explored, that you had the opportunity to visit and photograph early in your career? Tihar Jail is one of them. At Tihar, women have a beauty parlour. They celebrate Karwa Chauth and Rakhi. Bollywood has given us a different perspective on the jail, so I think that was a very different place for me to shoot. That’s why I decided to show the actual thing to everyone, not just the Bollywood picture.

Inspiring Women

Inspiring Women Every Wednesday: Ahtushi Deshpande

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Author, Speaking Stones: Rock Art of Ladakh HIGHLIGHTS OF THE BOOK First-ever visual documentation of Ladakh’s petroglyphs on such a scale using special photography techniques. Illustrated maps 260 photographs Well researched text and bibliography International recognition Solo exhibition in Paris in November 2024, alongside the book release. Foreword by His Holiness, the 14th Dalai Lama. Additional foreword by Martin Vernier (HIRADa founder) Her work has been featured in various travel and lifestyle magazines, including Outlook Traveler, National Geographic Traveler, Marie Claire, Design Today, and more. Ahtushi was recognized as one of India’s top 80 photographers, with her work featured in a book and exhibition celebrating 75 years of Indian photography, published by Museo Camera, the Centre for the Photographic Arts. The travelogue “To the Land of Snow,” which details high-altitude solo trekking, has become required reading in high school literature classes. Her photography encompasses a broad range, including travel, documentary, food, architecture, events, and hotels. Let’s Get Inspired In Conversation with Ahtushi Deshpande – Preeti Juneja Q. How did you get started in photography? My interest in photography began in a home where creativity was appreciated. My avid hobbyist photographer father transformed our store into a darkroom. The heady mix of developing chemicals and the mysterious red glow of the darkroom fascinated me. Watching the image magically appear on paper when he left his prints for washing in the bathtub was surreal, and this early exposure to photography ignited a lifelong passion within me. I saved up for my first SLR camera when I was 17. However, it remained a hobby until 2004, when I turned my passion into a profession after a stint in television. I started working with Outlook Traveller magazine as a travel writer and photographer. My debut travel feature, “To the Land of Snow,” on the Milam Glacier trek, was published by Outlook was later also incorporated into Tamil Nadu’s high school English curriculum. Though I explored various roles within the field of photography, including paparazzi (IIFA Awards) and commercial work, my true love has always been travel and documentary photography. Once I had found the perfect confluence of my passion for trekking with my work as an adventure travel writer and photographer, I’ve never looked back. Q. If you were to use photography as a medium to influence society or create change, what would you focus on? I believe in using photography to influence the world and foster positive narratives through my journey. By turning my passion into a profession and exploring new subjects like rock art, I’ve demonstrated the potential we all have within us. My book on the rock art of Ladakh showcases how dedication to one’s passion can lead to meaningful outcomes. This particular project showed me the value of sharing the histories and cultures of places that inspire me, such as Ladakh, hoping that it will do so for my audience as well. Additionally, during my 1st cancer diagnosis and cancer treatment in 2015, I documented my journey through chemotherapy, capturing the process of hair loss and regrowth. This project, titled “The Color of My Cancer,” was exhibited by the Tata Memorial Breast Cancer Initiative, revealing a perspective on cancer that extends beyond the disease and delves into a more vulnerable reflection of both loss and renewal. It aimed to challenge the myths surrounding cancer, confront the associated stigma, and rise above the fear. By focusing the lens on my own experience, I sought to be a catalyst for change and inspire others. Q. Tell us about your book, “Speaking Stones: Rock Art of Ladakh” The inspiration for this work came from discussions with my friend Viraf Mehta about the presence of petroglyphs in Ladakh. When I first saw these petroglyphs in 2011, it was like I had been struck by a lightning bolt – Ladakh’s rugged, isolated terrain seemed an unlikely setting for such ancient artistry. Yet, there they were: these mysterious, mask-like symbols and abstract engravings of animals etched into rock – remnants of a prehistoric world previously unknown to me. This stirred something deep within me and I knew I had to document these extraordinary panels. The book provides a glimpse into the ancient artistry carved into the rugged rock surfaces of Ladakh, a high-altitude desert with a history that extends beyond its known narrative. Each site showcases its unique style and execution, underscoring Desmond Morris’s idea that artistry is an inherent human trait, regardless of material conditions. Despite the lack of funding and the difficulties of scouting expansive sites without GPS, I have managed to represent every region of Ladakh. I undertook 18 trips to Ladakh, with 14 of these trips focused solely on photographing this art. After completing my shoots in 2019, the challenge shifted to curating thousands of images into a cohesive book. Over the past five years, I have worked to make this relatively obscure subject accessible, combining my unique perspective with detailed research from academic papers, international publications, maps, travel insights, and contextual information. a) What makes it a unique piece of work? It is the first of its kind work in the mainstream in India by a non academic looking at the subject through the lens of art. As the first comprehensive monograph to cover all regions of Ladakh, it offers detailed illustrated maps, relevant context, and a modern geographical perspective that links the ancient past with the present. Featuring over 260 color photographs, including some previously unseen, the book provides a fresh and accessible view of a subject that remains relatively obscure, even within Ladakh. This project transcends traditional documentation, positioning photography as a powerful tool for both education and conservation. It pioneers the use of night photography and other innovative techniques to capture these ancient artworks specifically in this region. As the first major Indian contribution exploring rock art through the lenses of art, photography, and travel, the book stands out for its originality and personal aesthetic. The book offers a fresh perspective on Ladakh’s rich cultural heritage and

Marketing Communications, Uncategorized

Unlock the Power of Landing Pages: Master Conversion Optimization Today!

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The Ultimate Guide to Landing Pages and Conversion Optimization Landing pages play a crucial role in digital marketing, serving as the first point of interaction between potential customers and your brand. Their primary goal is to convert visitors into leads or customers. Designing high-converting landing pages requires attention to several best practices, including A/B testing and crafting persuasive copy. Best Practices for Designing High-Converting Landing Pages Clear and Compelling Headline: The headline is the first thing visitors see. It should be clear, concise, and compelling, instantly conveying the value proposition. A strong headline grabs attention and encourages visitors to read further. Focused and Relevant Content: The content on your landing page should be relevant to the ad or link that brought the visitor there. Keep it focused on a single objective, whether it’s downloading an eBook, signing up for a webinar, or making a purchase. Avoid clutter and distractions that could lead visitors away from the primary goal. Strong Call-to-Action (CTA): Your CTA is the conversion point on your landing page. Make it stand out with a contrasting color and compelling copy. Use action-oriented language like “Get Started,” “Download Now,” or “Sign Up Today” to encourage visitors to take the desired action. Visual Hierarchy and Design: Use a clean, visually appealing design that guides visitors’ attention to the most important elements. Employ a visual hierarchy with larger fonts for headlines and CTAs, and use images and whitespace effectively to break up text and maintain focus. Trust Elements: Incorporate trust signals such as testimonials, reviews, security badges, and logos of well-known clients or partners. These elements help build credibility and reduce friction in the conversion process. Importance of A/B Testing in Optimizing Landing Pages A/B testing, or split testing, involves creating two versions of a landing page (Version A and Version B) with one varying element to determine which performs better. This method is essential for optimizing landing pages because it relies on data-driven decisions rather than assumptions. Improves Conversion Rates: By testing different elements such as headlines, CTAs, images, and layouts, you can identify what resonates best with your audience. Small changes can significantly impact conversion rates, leading to more leads and sales. Reduces Risk: A/B testing allows you to experiment with changes on a smaller scale before rolling them out site-wide. This reduces the risk of negatively impacting your overall conversion rate. Data-Driven Insights: The insights gained from A/B testing provide a deeper understanding of your audience’s preferences and behaviors. This information is invaluable for making informed decisions and refining your marketing strategies. Tips for Writing Persuasive Landing Page Copy Know Your Audience: Tailor your copy to address the needs, pain points, and desires of your target audience. Use language and tone that resonates with them, and focus on the benefits they will gain from your offer. Keep It Clear and Concise: Avoid jargon and long-winded explanations. Clear, concise copy is easier to read and more likely to keep visitors engaged. Highlight the most important points and use bullet points for easy scanning. Use Persuasive Language: Employ persuasive language that creates a sense of urgency and highlights the value proposition. Words like “exclusive,” “limited time,” and “free” can motivate visitors to take immediate action. Focus on Benefits, Not Features: While it’s important to mention features, emphasize the benefits those features provide. Explain how your product or service solves a problem or improves the visitor’s life. Incorporate Social Proof: Include testimonials, reviews, and case studies to build trust and demonstrate the effectiveness of your offer. Social proof can significantly influence a visitor’s decision to convert. In conclusion, high-converting landing pages are the result of thoughtful design, strategic A/B testing, and persuasive copywriting. By following these best practices, you can optimize your landing pages to maximize conversions and drive business growth. 6th August 2024 Share this article Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Email WhatsApp Marketing Communications Share this article Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Email WhatsApp Do you have a question for ? Write to us at contact.dwindia@gmail.com Published by preetidwindia I’m an entrepreneur, a marketing specialist, and a blogger. I work to help companies, brands, people with marketing strategies. I envision everyone having a blog of their own. My efforts are focused on this vision. For this, I help my audience with blog set-up, content creation, and content marketing. View all posts by preetidwindia

Inspiring Women

Inspiring Women Every Wednesday: Neha Mathur Rastogi (Special Series)

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Founder, WordsWork Communications Consulting Co-chair of Sports Committee, FICCI Let’s Get Inspired In Conversation with Neha Mathur Rastogi – Preeti Juneja Q. What motivated you to pursue a career in PR? Tell us your story. I was always fascinated by the power of the written word. I wanted a career that was both creative but also with exposure to the corporate world. After narrowing my interest largely to mass communications, I did a couple of internships during my undergraduate to narrow my interest in PR. From there on, I chose to specialise in PR for a postgraduate course and have never looked back for over 20 years. To a certain extent you need to be built to suit this industry. If you thrive in building connections and have a knack for being a people person, this career would be ideal for you. Q In your view, how is PR and Digital Marketing related? As the communications industry evolves, the lines between PR and digital marketing are definitely getting blurred. There is an inherent symbiotic relation between the two, and hence, it is wise to align both to build a holistic communications strategy. Q. What are the best practices for posting news on social media? The most critical aspect of news in social media is that it needs to be highly current and relevant. Beyond a particular shelf life, news loses relevance on social media very quickly compared to traditional mediums. Typically, when we post news on social media, a link back to the story if on a digital medium is suitable; a carousel of high-quality and legible print stories is also an excellent way to do a ‘media watch’ format post. We also do Linkbacks to the publication’s social media handles. Q. Do you have a role model within your industry who has inspired you? How has that person influenced and inspired you? Ms Prema Sagar has been a long-term influence in my life. I am impressed by her ability to balance an incredible career with grace and dignity. Additionally, I am super impressed with Mr. Madan Bahal from Ad Factors. Building such a formidable independent firm quietly and growing beyond global standards is extremely impressive. Q. What advice would you offer to young individuals interested in joining this profession? If you’re someone who enjoys a healthy balance between creativity and a corporate environment, PR could be the perfect career for you. In this industry, we value people with fortitude and a can-do attitude. While media knowledge, writing skills, and client management capabilities can be acquired, those with excellent people skills have a distinct advantage. Share this article Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Email WhatsApp Do you have a question for Neha Mathur Rastogi ? Write to us at preeti.juneja@dreamwebindia.com About Author Neha Mathur Rastogi Neha Mathur Rastogi, the Founder of WordsWork Communications Consulting, brings over 18 years of expertise in public relations, corporate brand communications, and media planning. As the strategic and content lead for all WordsWork clients, Neha excels at client service and consistently exceeds expectations. She established WordsWork in 2009 and has quickly led impactful communications campaigns across lifestyle, corporate, public diplomacy, and sports sectors. With a strong background in sports, Neha has represented the Indian Olympic Association and several national federations, including those for Hockey and Football. Her extensive experience includes managing public diplomacy efforts for the Embassy of the Netherlands – Foreign Investment Agency and the Embassy of France. She has also directed thought leadership campaigns for Thomson Reuters and the PHD Chamber of Commerce. Neha’s public relations career began at Genesis Burson-Marsteller in India and continued with Burson-Marsteller in London. 31st July 2024 Share this article Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Email WhatsApp Inspiring Women More Interviews Published by preetidwindia I’m an entrepreneur, a marketing specialist, and a blogger. I work to help companies, brands, people with marketing strategies. I envision everyone having a blog of their own. My efforts are focused on this vision. For this, I help my audience with blog set-up, content creation, and content marketing. View all posts by preetidwindia

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