Author name: dwcc_admin

Inspiring Women

Inspiring Women Every Wednesday: Garima Anand

/

Ranked among the Top 3 in FITTR’s Transformation Challenge Let’s Get Inspired In Conversation with Garima Anand – Preeti Juneja Q. What inspired you to take fitness seriously? It was my deteriorating health, including knee issues, being overweight, anxiety, and depression. I didn’t like what I saw in the mirror. Three years ago, I was suffering from major anxiety issues, even had to get hospitalized in the middle of the night. I was undergoing extensive counseling sessions when my doctor asked me what I enjoyed most. I told him I liked going to the gym and listening to music. He encouraged me to start doing those activities again, and since then, there has been no looking back. Q What kind of pushback did you encounter from family and friends during your fitness journey? Fortunately, I haven’t faced any resistance from my family. My husband, kids, and mother-in-law were incredibly supportive throughout my journey. They simply wanted me to find happiness and overcome my anxiety issues. My fitness journey began with the support of my husband. He’s a fitness enthusiast himself and has always encouraged me to prioritize health and fitness. I’ve received immense support from him throughout this journey. Not a day went by without me hitting the gym. I was dedicated to my workouts, and my diet was always on point with no cheat meals whatsoever. I was committed to achieving my goals, no matter what. In fact, he was the one who told my kids, “This is your mom’s ‘me time’ at the gym, and you shouldn’t disturb her. If she has to go, it means she has to be in the gym. Don’t give her any work during that time.” Q. How did you overcome the naysayers to sustain your passion for fitness? This was the most challenging aspect of my fitness journey because of the numerous judgments I faced. When I was overweight, people would call me names like “Pehelwan,” “Lambichori,” or say, “You’ve become quite healthy.” And when I began my journey, they questioned why I exercised so much, asking, “Do you want to become like a man?” My husband and coach were there to support and guide me. They advised me to simply ignore naysayers, and let them say what they want. To overcome the naysayers, simply ignore them and let them say what they want. Just smile back at them. I’d say, stay focused, disciplined, and consistent, no matter what obstacles come your way. Q. How are you inspiring others around you to embrace fitness? I am currently a certified diet and workout consultant, providing personalized diet and workout plans to my clients. People in my community see my discipline in the gym and observe the way I work out. Whether or not I inspire them, they definitely take notice. I’ve been sharing my workout videos and reels on social media. People often approach me, seeking tips and asking about my transformation journey. Q. What common myths about fitness would you like to debunk? A common myth in women’s fitness is the fear that working out will make them look huge and manly. This is not true. Women who work out will become stronger and more curvaceous, and while they will gain muscle, they will not look manly. Also, there’s a common misconception that going to the gym alone will lead to weight loss and fat loss. The truth is, the key factor is maintaining a proper diet. To lose fat, you must create a calorie deficit, while for weight gain, you need to be in a calorie surplus. So, both diet and strength training are crucial components of your fitness journey. Rapid-Fire: Energy food you recommend the most Good protein rich diet 2. Food you must avoid at all costs: All kind of packaged food at the store counter 3. 5 must-have things at home to get you started: – Fitness goal – Strength Training – Balanced and Discipline routine – Quantified Diet – Good sleep / Good recovery time 4. Your advice for 40-plus women? It’s important for all women to incorporate strength training alongside cardio into their fitness routine, along with a balanced diet and adequate protein intake. It helps in, – Boosting bone density – Enhancing functional movement – Weight maintenance – Muscle rebuilding – Promoting good mental health – Combatting osteoporosis, which often occurs post-menopause. 5. Quick snack to keep in your bag? – Bananas – Boiled eggs – Salad – Soya chunks About Author Garima Anand Certified by the Institute of Nutrition and Fitness Sciences, Garima Anand now offers diet and workout fitness consultancy from home. A homemaker turned fitness enthusiast, she inspires many people eager to transform their lives just like she did. If she doesn’t inspire, nothing can. 5th June 2024 Share this article Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Email WhatsApp Inspiring Women More Interviews Share this article Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Email WhatsApp Do you have a question for Garima Anand ? Write to us at preeti.juneja@dreamwebindia.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: Sharon Samuel Ahmed

/

My mission: To help 1 million people achieve holistic weight transformation through Keto Diet and Intermittent Fasting methods. Sharon’s inspiration to help people lose weight stems from her own struggles with obesity, diabetes, emotional eating, fatigue, and low energy, which she battled for over 25 years. Like millions, she tried many weight loss diets only to regain the weight after stopping them. She successfully lost 20 kgs of stubborn fat in just 6 months and was able to stop her diabetes medication. This transformation elevated her self-confidence, self-love, energy levels, and overall outlook on life. She has already helped over 100 people not only lose weight but also achieve holistic and sustainable health.  Weight loss goes beyond just counting calories or exercising for hours every day. Sharon Samuel Ahmed In her program, Sharon targets the root causes of obesity through her 3 Step Weight Loss Framework and her Weight Transformation Journey Blueprint, both are scientific and proven methods for sustainable fat loss. Sharon works as a consultant with Transform Rural India, part of the Strategic and Programme Assistance Unit for DAY_NRLM, Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India. She provides policy and strategic support to achieve 1 lakh+ annual income for 8 crore+ rural women in SHGs, designs and drives “The Prajjwala Challenge,” and leads capacity building for SRLMs and local functionaries. Previously, she worked with Hand in Hand India, overseeing projects in North Indian states and building partnerships for new programs. She also served as a technical advisor at Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, and has extensive experience with organizations like Vodafone Foundation, Child Rights and You (CRY), SRIJAN, and PRADAN Let’s Get Inspired In Conversation with Sharon Samuel Ahmed – Preeti Juneja Q. What inspired you to take fitness seriously? My inspiration to take fitness seriously stemmed from my painful journey with obesity. At one point, I weighed nearly 100 kilograms and faced numerous health issues, including fatigue, low energy, cravings for sugary sweets, and eventually type II diabetes. I was on the verge of developing glaucoma, but fortunately, I was diagnosed in time to save my vision. Despite trying calorie-restrictive diets and intense exercise routines, I found little success. It left me feeling demotivated and frustrated, and the impact began seeping into my professional and personal life. I desperately wanted to “look good,” “wear the clothes of my choice,” and above all, “feel healthy.” Over time, I became a victim of the emotional side effects of obesity—self-hatred, lack of self-belief, emotional eating, anxiety, and possibly even depression. As my stress levels increased, so did my weight. I sought solace in food, relying on the dopamine effect of my favourite foods for temporary relief. However, this was only a fleeting comfort, and after indulging, I would blame myself for giving in to my emotional eating habits. There came a point when I lost all hope and believed I had to live with my situation for the rest of my life. This emotional turmoil began affecting my professional life as well, leading to self-doubt, an inferiority complex, and a tendency to blame myself for everything negative that happened. My turning point came when I joined the “Passionpreneur Movement” by Dev Gadhvi, who has learnt from his mentors like Sifu Dan Lok and Tony Robbins, undergone Vipasana several times and is on a mission to transform 1 billion lives. I am a part of Dev Gadhvi’s inner circle community, and I dedicate my mental and emotional transformation to what I have learned during this time. In one of the sessions, we were asked, “What is your purpose in life? What are you passionate about? What would you love to do? How would you like to change lives? What impact would you like to bring to people’s lives?” I realized I had no answers. I still felt a vacuum despite spending almost 22 years in the social development sector, working at the grassroots, funding, and policy levels. I struggled to find passion in my work and couldn’t associate my answers with what I had been doing for years. Then, a statement during the program struck me deeply: “Most movements emerge from the injustice or pain that someone has felt, and these movements are there to bring about a change in that inequality of pain.” The examples of Mahatma Gandhi, Mother Teresa, Martin Luther King, and Nelson Mandela resonated with me. I realized that the pain I had endured due to obesity wasn’t just physical but also emotional and mental. That’s when I decided to create change not only for myself but also to help others overcome the complex pain of obesity. I decided to lead by example, demonstrating the changes I advocated. I knew the effectiveness of the ketogenic diet and intermittent fasting for physical weight loss, and I spent months studying and understanding these areas to develop a holistic solution. I also earned a “Keto and Intermittent Fasting Coach” certification from Dr. Eric Berg, DC. I studied intermittent fasting through Dr. Jason Fung, MD’s training and books, both pioneers in their fields. I deeply understood that weight loss is not solely about shedding pounds but achieving a holistic transformation. It’s about losing weight from your mind, heart, and body. Through practices of gratitude, meditation, affirmations, and a comprehensive approach, I overcame my emotional and mental struggles. I found the best solution for physical weight loss by combining keto and intermittent fasting with exercise. Today, I am on a mission to transform 1 million lives by advocating for a comprehensive approach to well-being that encompasses emotional and mental health alongside physical health. This holistic transformation is about looking good and feeling good, inside and out. Q What kind of pushback did you encounter from family and friends during your fitness journey? Whenever you aim to bring about change through unconventional methods, it is initially met with resistance. This is true for any new idea or disruption that challenges widely accepted norms. Today, also, despite remarkable and proven results

Inspiring Women

Inspiring Women Every Wednesday: Sangeeta Relan

/

Founder of AboutHer and Host of The AboutHer Show  “It is never too late, and you are never too old to become better.” Sangeeta Relan In addition to her academic pursuits, she is a writer and editor, managing an e-magazine for women called AboutHer. Founded in January 2018, AboutHer is a women’s lifestyle site that covers style, culture, food, travel, relationships, stories, books, and podcasts. About Her: The magazine features short stories, book reviews, and her reflections on women, their journeys, relationships, evolving roles, challenges, passions, and interests. Renowned for its large and deeply engaged readership, About Her invites visitors to come for the blog and stay for the comments. The About Her Show: Sangeeta hosts a podcast, where she converses with women achievers to learn about their inspiring journeys, aimed at motivating and empowering other women. Let’s Get Inspired In Conversation with Sangeeta Relan – Preeti Juneja Q. In your blog “About Her,” there’s a section called Real Journeys, where you celebrate the resilient and determined women of the past, present, and future. Additionally, “The About Her Show” podcast features interactions with women achievers to inspire and motivate others. There are many hidden gems whose stories need to be highlighted. How do you go about finding these untold stories and giving them a platform to shine? I firmly believe that every woman has a story, whether she is known or not, and that each woman’s life offers valuable lessons for others. Our experiences may occur at different times and places, and sometimes take different forms, but we all navigate similar challenges. Therefore, it is important to learn from the experiences of others. not to discuss personal matters publicly, advised against “washing our dirty linen in public.” As a result, many women feel isolated, uncertain if their experiences are unique or shared by others. This sense of loneliness and the need for connection inspired me to start my e-magazine about six and a half years ago. I began by writing short stories based on the lives of everyday women, aiming to create a space where women could see their own experiences reflected and know they are not alone. In the first season of my podcast, I interviewed 51 women. Recently, I’ve also started talking to men because I believe that achieving a truly inclusive world requires allyship, where men and women work together. I choose my guests not based on their public recognition, although I do have some well-known guests, but those are rare. Instead, I focus on the untold stories of unsung heroes—people who are not in the public eye. By giving them a platform to share their life journeys, achievements, and dreams, I aim to inspire my audience. These stories resonate with listeners, helping them find relatable experiences and insights that can enrich their own lives. This is the essence of my podcast. Q. As an educationist in a university with a predominantly female workforce, do you think gender diversity is a real problem, or is it primarily an issue in power positions and boardrooms? What is your advice to women on dealing with microaggression? It all starts from the bottom, from the moment boys and girls are born and the way we raise them. Boardrooms reflect the culmination of these early influences. From the very beginning, the way we raise our children shapes their future roles and behaviors. We tell boys not to cry because they aren’t girls and guide girls to make specific choices. Even the toys we give them—dolls for girls and mechanical toys or planes for boys—reinforce these differences. As children grow and advance to higher positions, these distinctions become more pronounced and continually reinforced. It’s a real problem everywhere. As you mentioned, even in universities with a predominantly female workforce, these issues persist. For example, I prefer taking early morning classes to maximize my day. When my children were younger, I aimed to complete my work early so I could spend more time at home. I was never one to linger in the staff room engaging in idle gossip. Men would often comment that women leave early to go home, implying they are less committed. This bias exists everywhere. Sometimes it’s overt, but often, women can sense when they are being unfairly targeted. Firstly, I believe it’s important to address microaggressions when you encounter them because they’re often subtle and may stem from unconscious bias. Men, due to this bias, may not realize when they say or do something inappropriate. When I suggest calling out, I don’t mean engaging in conflict. Instead, you can gently hint at it or express your discomfort politely. For example, you can say, “I didn’t appreciate what you said. How would you feel if the situation were reversed?” At work, we have informal support groups where we intervene if we notice a female student or a young colleague facing such issues. We offer them our support and let them know they’re not alone. My advice is to address these situations smartly without being overly aggressive. Make your point clear and never let it slide because ignoring it can perpetuate the behavior. Q. Is enough being done to promote mental well-being? What initiatives are you taking in this field? There is a very positive development that people are becoming more aware and accepting of issues that need attention. However, it’s crucial to understand that addressing these issues requires ongoing commitment, not just a short-term effort. Initiatives must be sustained to bring about lasting change. In particular, I want to emphasize the importance of focusing on women’s mental well-being, which I believe is not receiving the attention it deserves. Women face a myriad of challenges throughout various stages of life, such as during menstruation, premenopause, postmenopause, and pregnancy—experiences that men may struggle to comprehend. While discussions around this topic have begun, there’s still much more work to be done in this space. Recognizing and addressing these issues is important, and although progress has been made, there’s still a long

Inspiring Women

Inspiring Women Every Wednesday: Rituparna Ghosh

/

An International Storyteller and a TEDx Speaker Storytelling will be the strongest currency in the world Rituparna Ghosh For a span of five years, Rituparna shared her expertise in Storytelling and Children’s Literature at Delhi University. Additionally, she played a pivotal role in crafting the early years program for Delhi Government Schools, ingeniously integrating English, Hindi, and monthly themes through the medium of stories. More recently, Rituparna collaborated on the development of the Storytelling as Pedagogy Manual for CBSE. Through the platform of Your Story Bag, she has diligently conducted training sessions for numerous teachers and storytellers across India. Within the corporate and non-profit sectors, Rituparna has spearheaded projects that harness storytelling for diverse purposes, including Training, Company Branding, Change Management, Communication, Fundraising, Marketing, Program Facilitation, and Gender Sensitization. ‘Rituparna believes there is a storyteller in each of us. Children and adults need stories and storytelling skills all of their lives, to make sense of the world and give shape to their ideas.’ Let’s Get Inspired In Conversation with Rituparna Ghosh – Preeti Juneja Q. Stories breathe life into ideas. Which is your favorite marketing campaign? Marketing often intertwines with storytelling, especially during events like Women’s Day or Diwali, where brands invest significantly to evoke a feel-good factor. When it comes to marketing, I admire organizations and brands that prioritize storytelling as a sustained strategy. One such brand is the Whole Truth, a food brand that goes beyond selling protein bars and food items. The brand’s core mission is to enlighten consumers about the Whole Truth, to demystify food labels, and to reveal the nutritional content of every item they consume, thereby promoting healthy eating. I like it because this brand has held on to the raw thread of storytelling—the company’s branding activities, marketing, packaging, and communication in newsletters and social media are all based around storytelling. It is not a one-off campaign; it’s a brand strategy to ensure everything is around storytelling. And for me, that’s the whole idea behind a brand which does marketing, where marketing is not the end of selling a product. They’re also changing the narrative when trying to change how to consume food and the kind of misinformation out there. If you’re looking at storytelling as a way of sharing ideas, this brand is doing a particularly good job of it. Q. What is the story structure you follow to keep your audience focused and engaging? I’m fascinated by the question of story structure because there’s no one-size-fits-all formula. It varies depending on your audience – whether they’re children, adults, or individuals you’re encouraging to think critically or creatively. The structure and format you choose depend on the purpose behind your storytelling. So, rather than having a favorite structure, my approach adapts to the specific goals I aim to achieve with my audience. Q. Content inspiration is everywhere. a) Where do you get your source of inspiration for content creation? My ideas stem from various sources within me, triggered by questions, observations of mistakes, disagreements with others, or reflections on literature. When crafting content for storytelling, I prioritize audience input, allowing their preferences to shape how I present my ideas. For instance, when collaborating with a nonprofit, I focus on communicating their mission, drawing insights from how businesses and organizations engage their audiences to care about their cause or purpose. Cross-sector and cross-segment analyses of my clients and projects often inspire content dissemination. Even mundane experiences, like telling a multilingual story to children, spark ideas about language usage and audience engagement. I repurpose such experiences to cater to different audiences, understanding that the same incident can offer diverse perspectives. I thrive on the exchange of ideas and constantly seek inspiration from my work and experiences. Learning from children’s storytelling informs my approach with adults, adapting techniques to suit different contexts, such as teaching or corporate settings. Content creation, to me, encompasses storytelling methods, discussions on the art of storytelling, and tailoring storytelling as a tool to engage diverse audiences. It’s a fluid process, influenced by the audience and the desired outcome of our interaction. b) “Moment Marketing” is a double-edged sword. What are your views on it? a) I’m not a big fan of what is commonly referred to as ‘moment marketing ‘, a strategy where brands leverage current events or trends to promote their products or services. Amul is The only brand that does an excellent job of this. Unless you follow the Amul rule book of moment marketing and storytelling or the brand voice they exhibit during such times, no other brand does it anywhere close to what Amul does. On the contrary, brands tend to be insensitive and try to grab landlight or jump onto the trend. Social media has created this whole urge to make every story your own. It’s like that boring cousin of yours; no matter what is being told in the room, your cousin will jump in and say, oh, it happened to me also and this is what happened to me so you know that’s what ‘moment marketing’ is like so I’m not very fond of it and sometimes people you know do it very very poorly so that’s not what I like about ‘moment marketing ‘. Q. What are qualities of a good storyteller? Share few effective tips and tricks of compelling storytelling? STORYTELLING is really like a nuclear bomb in your hands. A skilled storyteller wields this power with awareness, sensitivity, and integrity, refraining from manipulation and embracing storytelling’s transformative potential. Each story has the potential to inspire, educate, and change lives, making storytelling a powerful tool in the hands of a skilled storyteller. Any storyteller must grasp that storytelling isn’t about self-absorption. Instead, it’s about considering the audience, the listeners, and the target demographic you’re addressing. Secondly, it involves recognizing the story as a medium to convey something meaningful. A proficient storyteller understands the supremacy of the audience and surrenders to their power, acknowledging that the narrative revolves solely around them. Without

Inspiring Women

Inspiring Women Every Wednesday: Aabha Bakaya

/

She started working independently on content creation and established the Ladies Who Lead (LWL) community, leading to the formation of LWL the company in 2021. She exemplifies the combination of beauty and intelligence, adept at discussing business affairs, stock markets, and shares. Aabha embarked on her professional journey as a correspondent at Business Today Magazine before transitioning to CNBC TV18 as a producer. Subsequently, she assumed the role of senior correspondent at NDTV Profit from 2004 to 2007, followed by a stint as associate producer at NDTV Good Times for a year. ZOYA explores Aabha Bakaya’s path to successin ‘Finely Crafted Journeys Read- Between 2008 and 2010, she anchored for ET NOW-TIMES GROUP, and from 2010 to 2016, she held the position of senior anchor and editor at Bloomberg TV India. She continues to lead and work within her own company, Ladies Who Lead. Award for Best Business News Anchor (Female) at the NT Awards Let’s Get Inspired In Conversation with Aabha Bakaya – Preeti Juneja Q. What are the common traits that influential leaders share? Which of these traits align most closely with your life story? Discipline, humility, and perseverance are all extremely powerful traits I have seen among some of the finest leaders, including my father, who built one of India’s largest hotel management companies, Sarovar Hotels. Q. Freedom fosters creativity. As an entrepreneur, could you share one innovative idea you initiated at Ladies Who Lead (LWL) that is thriving? It’s not about one idea. It’s about a million ideas that all contribute to creating something greater. It’s an ever-evolving process, and that’s the best part about creativity. Today, we have one of the most diverse, inclusive, and powerful platforms that doesn’t just talk about empowering women. Every action actually makes a difference in people’s journeys and gives them access to leaders across fields who tell them it’s possible to believe. You can do it. Q. Networking events take place across various sectors. LWL serves over 30 industries. According to you, why would individuals pay to network outside their sector unless they are seeking business opportunities? What value do you bring to the table? In today’s VUCA world, interconnectivity is essential. To not just survive but thrive, everyone needs exposure to multiple disciplines. Roles like HR, Tech, Marketing & Sales are evolving across sectors. Intrapreneurship is a highly sought-after skill, and exposure to entrepreneurs and their business expansion strategies, tested and proven, is invaluable. Cross-industry networking offers a wealth of knowledge on economic trends and their broader implications, making it a strategic move for any professional. Over the past year, LWL has doubled its member base to over 1000+. These members include business veterans, founders of unicorns, emerging entrepreneurs, and professionals from 30+ industries. Over the course of the past 12 months, LWL has significantly broadened its geographic reach, expanding from 4 cities (Delhi-NCR, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Pune) to more than 12+ cities now. This also includes 6 international cities across the globe. LWL derives immense value and advantages for its members from cross-segment strategic partnerships. Its partner portfolio includes reputable brands such as Vertices, TMT, Harappa, Nuvama, Mint, Zen Co-works, and Taj Group Of Hotels Q. In networking, authenticity is key. However, everyone wishes to present themselves favourably. How can one network to build genuine connections and lasting relationships? What advice would you give to budding entrepreneurs? Be vulnerable and ask for help when you need it. Although everyone you ask may not be able to help you, they will surely try. Q. In the digitalized landscape of the creator economy and ed-tech for learning, where information is abundant, how do you curate content topics, events and more? Today, people want in-person, intimate, and personalized engagement, and you’ll find that when you sit with someone in a curated safe space. When you take the time to attend and have each other’s attention for those couple of hours, you also walk away with meaningful takeaways. Nothing replaces that kind of learning. Q. How do you know a plan is a good plan Hahaha, You don’t; you’ll discover. But there is always another plan 🙂 Rapid-Fire: One area of specialization that interests you? Storytelling 2.What do you mean by an equitable future for women? Where they are no longer an exception to the rule 3.What is a day at work like? Manic 4.What skills from Journalism are helping you now in your new venture? Curation, Positioning, Questioning, Discovering and Relating One-Liners: 1.My mentor is: Life mentor – Ajay Bakaya. 2.Success to me is: Fulfilling your dream. Though the path may be unexpected. 3.recommend studying Media and Journalism from: Columbia School of Journalism. 4.Invest money to make money, Invest time to make: Human Capital that lasts forever About Author Aabha Bakaya As Founder & CEO of Ladies Who Lead, a members – only circle of women achievers, she is set out on this journey to co-create an equitable future for women in the workforce with an innate drive to speed up meaningful change. 1st May 2024 Share this article Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Email WhatsApp Inspiring Women More Interviews Important Links https://www.instagram.com/reel/C39t5FvSlB-/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== Share this article Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Email WhatsApp Do you have a question for Aabha Bakaya ? Write to us at preeti.juneja@dreamwebindia.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

International Women’s Day: Woman who inspires: Dr. Sharda Arora

/

Dr. Sharda’s list of patients includes some of Delhi’s most notable figures: Top Film Stars, Industrialists, and Cricket Stars. For a decade, she worked under the mentorship of India’s esteemed dentist, Dr. Col. S.S. Duggal, the founder of the New Delhi Armed Forces Dental Center. Dr. Duggal was recognized with the prestigious “Sword of Honor” by the Bhutanese King and received accolades from rulers of various nations for his service as their personal dentist. Commissioned by the Indian Army on the recommendation of the Indian Government, he held a revered position within the dental community. Throughout her career, Dr. Arora’s ultimate professional triumph has been the joyous smiles of her satisfied patients. Reflecting this ethos, the motto of their clinic echoes a commitment to go the extra mile: “We would walk a million miles for one of your smiles.” Beyond her professional endeavours, Dr Arora passionately advocates holistic well-being and promotes a “Fit and Fab” lifestyle. As a fitness enthusiast and yoga teacher, she embodies vitality and inspires others to prioritize their health and happiness. Let’s Get Inspired Interview with Dr. Sharda Arora – Preeti Juneja Q. Is treating celebrity patients intimidating for you? Do you experience any anxiety while working with high-profile individuals? If you were to choose a brand ambassador for your brand, is there anyone specific you would like to mention? Yes, most definitely, treating high-profile patients can be very intimidating at times, but I have an operative practice in such cases. I communicate my state of being to them as if I am overwhelmed or intimidated. So two things happen in that case… 1. They come to a level where we both are comfortable with each other and doing a procedure after that is not as difficult. 2. As soon as I accept that I am intimidated, somehow that feeling subsides. Acceptance of a situation is a great key to getting successful results. If I were to choose a brand ambassador for my brand, I would opt for Shah Rukh Khan. He has always been and will always be my first choice. It was a little emotional, but yes, that’s it… When I saw he got his smile done from somewhere, I was heartbroken. Q. What motivates you most – career, charity or children? A mix of all of them because I believe in a complete life and am a very greedy human being. I cannot do without a career, children, or charity. At different times, different things motivate me. Q. Oral health is significantly linked to broader health concerns related to pain in the body. Yet, there seems to be insufficient effort to raise awareness about dental care compared to diabetes and hypertension. Do you agree? If you were to spearhead a campaign to enhance oral health, what specific issues would you prioritize discussing? Broadly explaining there are 2 jaws, one upper and one lower jaw, and they are joined to each other by a Joint called as ‘The temporomandibular joint (TMJ)’. There is a fine balance between the upper and lower jaws, the joint, and the musculature around it. But due to any situation, if there is any discrepancy in the alignment of teeth or right and left imbalance of teeth, then many kinds of body pains and chronic diseases can show up in the body. For example, a vehicle or car has four wheels, and we have to get wheel balancing and wheel alignment done for the car every now and then. If we don’t get it done, then the whole engine is at risk of getting damaged. A very niche branch of dentistry called neuro-muscular dentistry is there to treat these misalignments. However, only a few dentists practice it, requiring considerable equipment and a deep knowledge of physics. I want to spearhead a campaign in the area of TMJ health. Q. Was the name “Zental” coined by a patient at your clinic? And if so, have you infused the Zen essence into the ambience and practices of your facility? Yes, absolutely, “Zental Dental “was coined by our delighted patient after his clinic experience. When he went through the treatment and saw the ambience and work ethics and the behaviour of staff and the rest of the things, he Specially coined the term “Your clinic has a ZEN-like feel to it, so it should be called ZENTAL DENTAL.’ We have maintained what we were doing before. Our parent company is still “Swaran Dental Clinic” as it’s after my mother-in-law, SWARAN ARORA. Q. Zental is renowned for its state-of-the-art infrastructure and is the epitome of technological advancement in Indian dental clinics. a) How do the machines employed at Zental alleviate patient discomfort, minimize treatment time, and enhance diagnostic accuracy for dental issues? b) Dental treatments are considered expensive. Nevertheless, Zental offers top-notch Cosmetic Dental treatments at affordable rates. Is this affordability a significant factor in setting Zental apart? What philosophy guides this approach? We are proud that we are a “one-stop shop” in dentistry. We have a setup of 5 dental chairs complete with all the required armamentarium for regular dentistry. In addition, we have a CBCT x-ray machine, which acts like a 3rd eye and gives us microscopic relevant information about the teeth, bone and associated nerves and blood vessels. This CT scan is the most essential part of planning implants and RCTs. We have Tscan machines which give information about right and left pressure scans. JVA and JT are jaw movement trackers. Most important for TMJ patients with body pains and TMJ diseases. We are very proud owners of a DENTAL LAB . Which has Cad Cam scanners and milling machines. They provide us with precise and accurate dental crowns and prostheses. Diagnodent – gives information about the early onset of caries. Velscope – this magical instrument can diagnose any oral cancer in advance. We don’t have to wait for it to happen and then treat it surgically. Which can be very debilitating. Apex locators are a boon to root canal

Inspiring Women

World Storytelling Day

/

Inspiring Women Every Wednesday: Prema Sagar Why is Storytelling important? What Opportunities are there for Storytellers? Meghna Nupur Founder, Meur Feature Q.  What is the importance of storytelling and its role in shaping society? Storytelling is the cornerstone of human communication, weaving narratives that transcend barriers and shape societies. In PR, storytelling isn’t just about conveying messages; it’s about crafting compelling narratives that resonate with audiences on an emotional level. Through storytelling, we can evoke empathy, inspire action, and foster connections that drive positive change. Stories have the power to shift perceptions, challenge norms, and ignite movements. By harnessing the art of storytelling, PR professionals can influence public opinion, shape cultural discourse, and ultimately contribute to the fabric of society. In today’s fast-paced world inundated with information, stories provide a memorable and impactful way to convey complex ideas and values. As guardians of brands and reputations, PR professionals must recognize the importance of storytelling in shaping narratives that drive meaningful engagement and contribute to a more informed, empathetic, and connected society. Q.  What are the opportunities for Professional Storytellers? Professional storytellers today have boundless opportunities across various industries. They can thrive in marketing, advertising, journalism, filmmaking, and beyond. In PR, they play a pivotal role in shaping brand narratives, engaging audiences, and building meaningful connections. With the rise of digital platforms, there’s an increased demand for compelling content, offering storytellers avenues to showcase their skills through blogs, social media, podcasts, and videos. Additionally, as businesses recognize the power of storytelling in building authentic relationships with consumers, the need for skilled storytellers in corporate communications continues to grow. Overall, the opportunities for professional storytellers are vast and ever-expanding in today’s dynamic landscape. JYOTI JAIN Chief Executive Officer, Adroit Auto at Shriram Automall India Limited Q. What is the importance of storytelling and its role in shaping society? Storytelling preserves culture, instills moral values, and inspires change, shaping societal identity and fostering empathy and understanding across diverse communities. It serves as a powerful tool for reflection, entertainment, and social critique, influencing perceptions and encouraging collective action for positive transformation. Q.  What are the opportunities for Professional Storytellers? I believe nowadays enormous opportunity lies with Professional storytellers in almost everything anybody do. Few opportunities to list are in entertainment, marketing, education, and therapy, leveraging their skills to engage audiences, shape narratives, and drive impact across various industries and platforms. Anusha Subramanian Partner, Bohemian Adventures LLP Q.  What is the importance of storytelling and its role in shaping society? Storytelling is key because it connects all of us through shared experiences, emotions, and values. It has the power to bridge hearts and minds weaving together the tapestry of our shared humanity. It serves as a powerful tool for teaching, entertaining, and safeguarding of our cultural heritage, empowering us to grasp intricate truths, foster empathy, and ignite transformative change. Q.  What are the opportunities for Professional Storytellers? Opportunities for Professional Storytellers are many. there are opportunities in diverse fields such as Journalism, entertainment including film, television, and theater; digital content creation for YouTube, podcasts, and social media;   Corporate professionals have the opportunity in brand storytelling and marketing; education and workshops to teach storytelling techniques; and cultural and historical preservation through museums, libraries, and community organizations.   DREAMWEB INDIA WISHES A HAPPY STORYTELLING DAY TO PR PROFESSIONALS, CONTENT CREATORS, AUTHORS, ARTISTS, AND JOURNALISTS.   Share this article Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Email WhatsApp Do you have a question for ? Write to us at preeti.juneja@dreamwebindia.com 20th March 2024 Share this article Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Email WhatsApp Inspiring Women More Interviews Important Links https://dreamwebindia.in/2023/09/13/inspiring-women-every-wednesday-6/ 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

World Storytelling Day

/

Inspiring Women Every Wednesday: Prema Sagar Why is Storytelling important? What Opportunities are there for Storytellers? Meghna Nupur Founder, Meur Feature Q.  What is the importance of storytelling and its role in shaping society? Storytelling is the cornerstone of human communication, weaving narratives that transcend barriers and shape societies. In PR, storytelling isn’t just about conveying messages; it’s about crafting compelling narratives that resonate with audiences on an emotional level. Through storytelling, we can evoke empathy, inspire action, and foster connections that drive positive change. Stories have the power to shift perceptions, challenge norms, and ignite movements. By harnessing the art of storytelling, PR professionals can influence public opinion, shape cultural discourse, and ultimately contribute to the fabric of society. In today’s fast-paced world inundated with information, stories provide a memorable and impactful way to convey complex ideas and values. As guardians of brands and reputations, PR professionals must recognize the importance of storytelling in shaping narratives that drive meaningful engagement and contribute to a more informed, empathetic, and connected society. Q.  What are the opportunities for Professional Storytellers? Professional storytellers today have boundless opportunities across various industries. They can thrive in marketing, advertising, journalism, filmmaking, and beyond. In PR, they play a pivotal role in shaping brand narratives, engaging audiences, and building meaningful connections. With the rise of digital platforms, there’s an increased demand for compelling content, offering storytellers avenues to showcase their skills through blogs, social media, podcasts, and videos. Additionally, as businesses recognize the power of storytelling in building authentic relationships with consumers, the need for skilled storytellers in corporate communications continues to grow. Overall, the opportunities for professional storytellers are vast and ever-expanding in today’s dynamic landscape. JYOTI JAIN Chief Executive Officer, Adroit Auto at Shriram Automall India Limited Q. What is the importance of storytelling and its role in shaping society? Storytelling preserves culture, instills moral values, and inspires change, shaping societal identity and fostering empathy and understanding across diverse communities. It serves as a powerful tool for reflection, entertainment, and social critique, influencing perceptions and encouraging collective action for positive transformation. Q.  What are the opportunities for Professional Storytellers? I believe nowadays enormous opportunity lies with Professional storytellers in almost everything anybody do. Few opportunities to list are in entertainment, marketing, education, and therapy, leveraging their skills to engage audiences, shape narratives, and drive impact across various industries and platforms. Anusha Subramanian Partner, Bohemian Adventures LLP Q.  What is the importance of storytelling and its role in shaping society? Storytelling is key because it connects all of us through shared experiences, emotions, and values. It has the power to bridge hearts and minds weaving together the tapestry of our shared humanity. It serves as a powerful tool for teaching, entertaining, and safeguarding of our cultural heritage, empowering us to grasp intricate truths, foster empathy, and ignite transformative change. Q.  What are the opportunities for Professional Storytellers? Opportunities for Professional Storytellers are many. there are opportunities in diverse fields such as Journalism, entertainment including film, television, and theater; digital content creation for YouTube, podcasts, and social media;   Corporate professionals have the opportunity in brand storytelling and marketing; education and workshops to teach storytelling techniques; and cultural and historical preservation through museums, libraries, and community organizations.   DREAMWEB INDIA WISHES A HAPPY STORYTELLING DAY TO PR PROFESSIONALS, CONTENT CREATORS, AUTHORS, ARTISTS, AND JOURNALISTS.   Share this article Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Email WhatsApp Do you have a question for ? Write to us at preeti.juneja@dreamwebindia.com 20th March 2024 Share this article Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Email WhatsApp Inspiring Women More Interviews Important Links https://dreamwebindia.in/2023/09/13/inspiring-women-every-wednesday-6/ 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

International Women’s Day: Woman who inspires: Garima Gulati Bhutani

/

She was conferred the “Woman Super Achiever Award” at the 4th World Women Leadership Congress & Awards by the World HRD Congress. Let’s Get Inspired Interview with Garima Gulati Bhutani – Preeti Juneja Q. What roles and responsibilities come with being a “Social Impact Advocate”? Is being a Social Impact Advocate the same as being a philanthropist? Social Impact has become a way of life for me now. Being born into a middle-class family was a lottery of birth for me, and with my parents’ enablement, I have studied to my heart’s content. After having taken a lot from society, I feel giving back is important. We all can do our own bit towards society by getting involved in projects of our interest, giving money, or being involved in voluntary activities. I consider philanthropy slightly different; Impact is being mindful of the goal or outcome you are aiming for. I am a karma yogi, and I think honest input is my dharma. At the same time, I would like to monitor the direction in which it is headed, too. Naturally, we all get a kick when we see some change on the ground, and that motivates us to do more. Q. How do you choose which NGOs to collaborate with? Do you have a favourite campaign or project among the numerous projects you’ve engaged in? I like associating with NGOs that promote self-reliance, inclusion, and environmental causes. A better-connected world with an appreciation for each other and the environment will take humanity far. The inclusion projects I have worked on in my organisation on DEI and Gender in partnerships with NGOs/Government bodies have offered immense learning. Another project that I have enjoyed is the Karm fellowship program. I continue to be associated with them, humbly offering internship experience to girls with drive coming from marginalised communities. Their energy and strength will fill me up with positivity to pursue my purpose in life. Q. How do you leverage your strengths as an HR lead to foster social impact within and beyond the organization? Within your professional capacity, could you elaborate on the aspects of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) as well as Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) that have effectively influenced both the organization and society as a whole? I am a people person, and trust is my default setting with people within both my known and unknown circle; that has helped me look at every new thing in life with an open heart and warm mind. Social cause connects to me naturally because of that. I am lucky to have been given the space and support within my team and home to play on my strengths. After being in the Tech+HR+Communications space for 18+ years, I would have sometimes dictated too when things were to be looked at with a fresh lens. I wish to be on the side of a solution than a problem, and that drives me to go beyond the usual. Hence, DEI, for me, is not a new normal, though I have wondered why these people are not visible, which led me to discover that I have been assuming it to be an inclusive world while it’s not. So, I started working on it actively. I have taken interns and full-time employees and built new verticals by collaborating with people from all backgrounds. I have seen huge success coming from corners where people don’t take entitlements and work for a vision. Q. As a member of esteemed women’s communities such as LWL and FICCI-Flo, how has this shaped your personal brand? What specific message do you promote during such gatherings? I am mesmerized by stories of rigour, aspirations, and perfection whenever I meet my peer group at these forums. In our life shell, either we think we are the hero, or we are the meekest. Only when you interact with an open mind do you learn so much about what is happening around you, and you are only a speck on the canvas of life. That energizes me to continue to learn and contribute in all possible ways. I am a promoter of inclusion, appreciation, and love. I advocate delegation, whether at work or home, for women’s active contribution to all workforces. I don’t tag people to work types, and my family also doesn’t. We encourage open conversations on gender, growing up, hormones, menstruation, etc. We all are different, and accepting this with an open heart will change the colour of dialogue rooms for us. Q. What are the evolving trends in HR functions and among job seekers today? As a female leader, do you believe your policymaking role is crucial for advancing other women employees within the organization? I appreciate the clarity that job seekers today, especially the younger generation, have. They take time to crystallize their interests, and once they do, they will be willing to travel to the moon and back to achieve them. I believe they can work on inculcating patience and focus, which are important life skills when it comes to self-regulation and working with others. Inclusion of all sorts in policymaking will help us advance significantly for women and society at large. I am amazed by the humility and acceptance displayed by PWD candidates and team members I have worked with. Organizations can achieve so much learning and development by focusing on this. Such life lessons can’t be taught in classrooms, on boards, or in templatized workshops. I have been advocating for policies that benefit people, not the system. Policies should enable people, not inhibit them. Q. What soft skills do you seek in candidates during interviews? How can you identify a leader among a group of talented individuals? For me, a leader is one who can enable and let his team shine over him like a proud parent. A bragger is most definitely not the one for me. Of course, one needs to know the subject well to command respect and take ownership. I seek aptitude, attitude, acceptance,

Inspiring Women

International Women’s Day: Empowered Hearts, Inspiring Souls

/

An IMT CDL and DreamWeb India Collaboration Real life inspirational stories of famous personalities sharing their experiences on Courage, Grit, Sacrifice, and Resilience. Inspiring women to be strong, positive and lead from a place where they believe in self, first. From different parts of India, joining on the panelist: Premlata Poonia, Founder, Hamari Laado, Rajasthan; Dilshad Master, Founder & director, Bull’s Adventure, Bangalore; Anshu Arora, Chief Synergist, Metamorphosis, Gurgaon; Anusha Subramanian, Partner at Bohemian Adventures LLP, Mumbai; the session was moderated by Preeti Juneja, Founder, DreamWeb India. Anshu Arora in conversation with Preeti Juneja: Preeti Juneja interviewed Anusha Subramanian: Follow inspirational stories of successful women personalities here. DREAMWEB INDIA WISHES YOU A VERY HAPPY WOMEN’S DAY! Share this article Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Email WhatsApp Do you have a question ? Write to us at preeti.juneja@dreamwebindia.com Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Email WhatsApp Inspiring Women Important Links https://dreamwebindia.in/2024/02/14/inspiring-women-every-wednesday-premlata-poonia/ https://dreamwebindia.in/2023/09/20/inspiring-women-every-wednesday-dilshad-master/ 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

error: Content is protected !!
Scroll to Top