womenachievers

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: 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

Inspiring Women

Inspiring Women Every Wednesday: Sharon Samuel Ahmed

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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

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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

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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

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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

World Storytelling Day

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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

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