Women Shaping Healthcare: Inspiring Women's Voices Of Healthcare

Dr. Kiran Mazumdar Shaw, Founder & Chairperson, Biocon

 "A trailblazing entrepreneur and a towering figure in the global biotechnology landscape, boasting over four decades of groundbreaking experience".

Dr. Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw is a trailblazing entrepreneur and a towering figure in the global biotechnology landscape, boasting over four decades of groundbreaking experience. Her journey began humbly in 1978, crafting a legacy that now spans continents. From the confines of her garage in India, fueled by an unwavering passion, she embarked on a mission that has since touched countless lives worldwide.

Under her leadership, Biocon has evolved into a dynamic global biopharmaceutical enterprise, addressing chronic diseases with affordable solutions. As the only publicly listed biotech firm in India, Biocon stands as a testament to Dr. Mazumdar-Shaw's transformative leadership. Beyond her corporate role, she actively shapes the future of biotechnology, chairing Karnataka's Vision Group on Biotechnology and advising governmental and international bodies. Her influence transcends borders, symbolizing the power of perseverance, innovation, and leadership.

On this International Women's Day, Dr. Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw's indomitable spirit serves as an inspiration to women everywhere, epitomizing the power of perseverance, innovation, and leadership in shaping a better world for all.

Dr. Sangita Reddy, Joint Managing Director - Apollo Hospital Groups

"She resonates as a testament to her unwavering dedication, global healthcare leadership, and commitment to shaping the future of global healthcare".

Dr. Sangita Reddy stands as a paragon of global healthcare leadership, wielding influence in entrepreneurship and humanitarianism. In her current role as the Joint Managing Director of Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Limited, Asia's largest and most trusted healthcare group, she has etched an enduring legacy.

A founding member of Apollo Hospital, Dr. Reddy spearheads groundbreaking initiatives, propelling healthcare into the digital age. Her commitment to universal healthcare is underscored by her roles as Chairperson of G20 Empower India, former President of FICCI, and Chairperson of BRICS Women’s Business Alliance.

Dr. Reddy's commitment extends to policy advocacy on the CSIR overarching committee, driving scientific and research advancements. Initiatives like Apollo Clinics aim to redefine primary care in India's urban and rural landscapes.

Known for philanthropy, she leads Apollo Knowledge in healthcare education and oversees Apollo Philanthropy, steering initiatives like 'Save a Child's Heart Initiative' and Total Health, an integrated rural health model.

International accolades, including an Honorary Doctorate from Macquarie University Australia and her role as Honorary Consul of Brazil in Hyderabad, testify to Dr. Sangita Reddy's global impact. Recognized among Business Today's most powerful women in business for 2022, her story resonates as a testament to unwavering dedication, transformative leadership, and a commitment to shaping the future of global healthcare.

Ms. Upasana Arora, MD Yashoda Superspeciality Hospital

“My feeling of success is bringing a smile to the face of a patient who is getting treated in the hospital and my favorite words are there is no elevator to success, you need to work hard, believe in yourself, and follow your dreams”.

Dr. Upasana Arora, a beacon of inspiration in the healthcare sector, has carved an extraordinary path marked by a relentless commitment to patient safety and a pursuit of excellence. Her impactful journey commenced at Yashoda Hospitals, Ghaziabad, in 2000, where she dedicated herself to enhancing healthcare accessibility and inclusivity.

Despite a challenging childhood marred by the loss of both parents, Dr. Upasana's determination fueled her transformative journey. Joining the hospital, initially a 100-bed facility, she recognized the pivotal role of timely interventions. Undeterred by challenges, she upgraded the hospital with state-of-the-art equipment, establishing herself as a leader within her family and the healthcare team.

Embodying a participative leadership style, Dr. Upasana emphasizes open communication and values the diverse perspectives of her team. Believing in the transformative power of mentorship, she draws inspiration from her mother, Prime Minister Shri Narender Modiji, and Ms. Draupadi Murmu.

Maintaining an admirable work-life balance, Dr. Upasana's disciplined approach prioritizes family, professional commitments, and her passion for social work. Her success is defined by the smiles on patient's faces, and she lives by the mantra that there is no elevator to success – one must work hard, believe in oneself, and follow their dreams. Dr. Upasana Arora's journey exemplifies resilience, leadership, and a profound impact on healthcare, making her a celebrated figure on International Women's Day.

Ms. Meenakshi Nevatia, Country President & Managing Director Pfizer India

“Meenakshi Nevatia's story is one of dynamic leadership, adaptability, and a steadfast commitment to values, an inspiration for women navigating diverse professional landscapes and striving for balance in every aspect of life”.

Meenakshi Nevatia's journey to her current role at Pfizer is a testament to her adaptability, resilience, and commitment to personal values. With a diverse background spanning consulting, the pharma industry, and MedTech, she has thrived and led senior leadership roles across strategic functions in nine countries. This has not only honed her ability to adapt swiftly but also reinforced her commitment to delivering impactful results in the face of constant change.

Meenakshi's emphasis on how mentorship shapes our perspective gives us new and fresh opinions, and how their feedback helps us learn new things or improve. She also recognizes the value of mentors who provide unfiltered guidance, she cherishes the wisdom shared by those who have navigated similar paths. 

Discussing challenges faced by women in the professional sphere, Meenakshi emphasizes the importance of establishing gender equality at home. She advocates for normalizing situations rather than magnifying gender differences, stressing the need for supportive ecosystems.

Meenakshi's leadership philosophy is characterized by a balance between being tough on issues and soft on people. Her direct approach, while occasionally surprising, resonates with those who appreciate transparency. She aspires to foster a non-hierarchical and bottom-up organizational culture, spending time with colleagues across all levels to foster a culture of inclusion and collaboration. Reflecting on her leadership style, Meenakshi sees herself as striking a balance of being firm on issues while maintaining a gentle demeanor towards people and championing an inverted organizational structure. 

The importance of striking a balance is a recurring theme, not only in her professional life but also in managing the delicate equilibrium between career and family.

Pfizer's flexibility in accommodating Meenakshi's living situation has been instrumental in striking her desired work-life balance. She emphasizes the need for individuals to be clear about their expectations and communicate them effectively to the organization.

Meenakshi Nevatia's story is one of dynamic leadership, adaptability, and a steadfast commitment to values. On International Women's Day, her narrative stands as an inspiration for women navigating diverse professional landscapes and striving for balance in every aspect of life.

Ms. Natasha Poonawalla, Chairperson of Villoo Poonawalla Foundation & Executive Director Of Serum Institute Of India

"Her passion for business, philanthropy, fashion, and design is reflected in her multifaceted approach, emerges her as a pioneer in healthcare"

Natasha Poonawalla, the Executive Director of Serum Institute of India, leads one of the world's largest vaccine manufacturers, championing the development and supply of pandemic vaccines. As Chairperson of Serum Life Sciences, she spearheads global health initiatives and shapes creative and business strategies for the Cyrus Poonawalla Group.

In addition to her healthcare leadership, Natasha serves as the Chairperson of the Villoo Poonawalla Foundation, focusing on education, healthcare, safe water, and environmental sanitation since its establishment in 2012. Her commitment is evident in diverse projects, from establishing schools to large-scale sanitation programs in Pune.

Natasha's global influence extends to her role as the Director of the Poonawalla Science Park in the Netherlands. She is also the Chair of the British Asian Children's Protection Fund for India and a valued member of the British Asian Trust's India Advisory Council.

Beyond her professional and philanthropic roles, Natasha's passion for business, philanthropy, fashion, and design is reflected in her multifaceted approach. With an M.Sc. in Organisational Behaviour from the London School of Economics, Natasha Poonawalla emerges as a pioneer on International Women's Day, exemplifying leadership and compassion that significantly influence a global scale.

Ms. Urvashi Prasad, Director at NITI Aayog

“Do your best you can make significant contributions to society, and you already do that whether it's in, within your homes, whether it is outside so certainly do your best,, but don't be harsh on yourself don't judge yourself”.

Ms. Urvashi Prasad, the Director at NITI Aayog, reflects on her remarkable journey in the development sector, spanning various roles in health, nutrition, water sanitation, and gender. With over seven years at NITI Aayog, her experience is a testament to her dedication and resilience.

Beginning her career with a philanthropic foundation focused on uplifting families in urban poverty, The development sector's challenges are complex, involving multiple stakeholders with competing interests. Ms. Prasad navigates these challenges, with patience and perseverance. Being a woman in leadership, especially in the policy space, poses additional hurdles. The tendency to prioritize experience and gender biases can be a double challenge. Yet, Ms. Prasad's journey reveals the pivotal role of mentors and supportive bosses who value talent over age or gender.

Her leadership style combines perfectionism in work quality with flexibility in work hours. Understanding the personal challenges of her team, she strives to be compassionate and empathetic. Mentorship plays a crucial role in her life, and she acknowledges the influence of key figures like Dr. Arvind Panagaria and Mr. Amitabh Kant.

Balancing work and life is a perpetual challenge, and Ms. Prasad emphasizes the importance of finding one's equilibrium and the need for downtime and relaxation.

As a cancer survivor herself, Ms. Prasad urges medical professionals to retain empathy and compassion. Her personal experience emphasizes the significant impact of motivational words and empathetic care on a patient's journey.

In her message to women, Ms. Prasad encourages doing one's best without being overly harsh on oneself. For those in a position to help other women professionally, she stresses the importance of offering advice, mentorship, and support. To budding medical professionals, she underscores the value of remaining empathetic and compassionate in a profession that can be both stressful and rewarding. Urvashi Prasad's story resonates with dedication, resilience, and a commitment to making a positive impact in the development and policy space.

 Lt Gen Madhurima Kanitkar, Vice-chancellor of the Maharashtra University of Health Science

"Be fit at 40, strong at 60, to remain independent at 80”

“We women are very strong and very capable, We can multitask, but we need to be kind to ourselves, and look after our health, must have checkups".

Lt Gen Madhurima Kanitkar's journey to becoming the Vice-Chancellor of the Maharashtra University of Health Sciences is a saga of adaptability, resilience, and a commitment to values. Acquired essential skills through experiences in the army, embodying ethos that proved advantageous in leadership roles.

As a military officer, Lt Gen Kanitkar led by example, emphasizing the importance of leading from the front and caring for the human resources under her command. Her transition from a soldier doctor to an administrator posed significant challenges, especially as a woman breaking into a predominantly male domain. Amidst personal struggles, and undergoing a professional shift, she persevered and emerged stronger, emphasizing the importance of the softer skills she developed as a pediatrician.

Lt Gen Kanitkar's leadership philosophy centers on ruling with the head but leading with the heart. She navigated challenges in her career transitions, from a clinician to an administrator and later from the military to a state-held university. Her collaborative and creative leadership style promotes teamwork and innovation. Mentorship played a pivotal role in Lt Gen Kanitkar's journey. She highlights the significance of mentors as real-life guides who encourage personal growth. Her grandmother, senior colleagues in the military, and her husband all served as mentors, providing invaluable support and encouragement.

Balancing a military career with family life, especially when posted apart from her husband for 24 years, required resilience and support from family and friends. Lt Gen Kanitkar's ability to prioritize and make tough decisions reflects her dedication to both her profession and family.

In her inspiring message to women, Lt Gen Kanitkar encourages them to be kind to themselves, emphasizing the importance of self-care. Her mantra, "Be fit at 40, strong at 60, to remain independent at 80," encapsulates her commitment to holistic well-being. 

Ms. Pallavi Jain, Co-Founder & MD, Krsnaa Diagnostics Limited 

“Embrace your strength, resilience, and potential. Your voice matters, your dreams are valid, and your contributions are invaluable. Stand tall, support one another, and fearlessly pursue your aspirations. You have the power to shape a brighter future for yourself and inspire generations to come”.

Ms. Pallavi Jain's journey to leadership at Krsnaa Diagnostics is a compelling narrative of gradual growth and unwavering dedication to continuous learning. Her resilience and empathy have emerged as defining qualities, shaping her into a leader committed to fostering collaboration and empowerment within her teams.

A pivotal juncture in her leadership trajectory & unfolded during the navigation of a complex project fraught with tight deadlines and conflicting stakeholder interests. Juggling the diverse needs of her team, Ms. Jain's problem-solving acumen and resilience came to the fore. Through a strategic blend of open communication, collaboration, and adaptability, she and her team surmounted obstacles, highlighting the crucial role of effective leadership in challenging scenarios.

Expressing gratitude for the profound impact of mentorship on her professional growth, Ms. Jain acknowledges the influential role played by Chairman Mr. Rajendra Mutha. His leadership style, marked by integrity and a dedicated commitment to mentorship, has significantly influenced her approach to leadership.

In her pursuit of maintaining a delicate balance between work and personal life, Ms. Jain underscores the importance of effective time management, setting boundaries, and incorporating occasional self-care. This equilibrium has empowered her to excel in both professional and personal spheres.

In a heartfelt message to women, Ms. Jain encourages them to embrace their strength, resilience, and inherent potential. She underscores the invaluable nature of each woman's voice, dreams, and contributions, urging them to stand tall, support one another, and fearlessly pursue their aspirations. To healthcare professionals, she advocates for compassionate patient care, unwavering commitment to excellence, and an understanding of the profound impact they can have on lives.

Ms. Bobby Ramesh, Group Director Nursing Excellence - Sarvodaya Healthcare

“Break through the barriers, shatter the stereotypes, and let your brilliance illuminate the path for generations to come. Empowered women empower the world.”

Ms. Bobby Ramesh, a pioneer in healthcare leadership, shares her compelling journey from clinical practice to a leadership role, navigating challenges with resilience and determination. Despite facing hurdles in organizational structures, her training at the College of Nursing, AFMC, equipped her to overcome complexities.

A pivotal challenge arose but, Undaunted, she embraced transformational leadership, empowering her team and advocating for nursing staff recognition.

Her pivotal moment arrived with her appointment as Principal of St Thomas College of Nursing, breaking a 44-year tradition of Nun sisters in the role.

Reflecting on her journey, Ms. Ramesh underscores mentorship's role in professional growth and her commitment to empowering nursing teams. Balancing work and life, she credits her supportive family.

In a message to women, Ms. Ramesh urges breaking barriers, shattering stereotypes, and illuminating paths for future generations. Embracing challenges, she sees them as opportunities for strength. As creators, nurturers, and leaders, women hold boundless potential and shape the future. She concludes, by wishing all women a Happy International Women's Day 2024, emphasizing that empowered women empower the world.

Dr. Tarang Gianchandani, CEO of Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital at Girgaum, Mumbai

“Her journey exemplifies the fusion of administrative acumen, medical expertise, and a vision for comprehensive healthcare solutions”.

Dr. Tarang Gianchandani's journey in healthcare leadership is an inspiring narrative marked by accomplishments and dedication to transformative healthcare. Currently, as the Chief Executive Officer of Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital in Mumbai, she stands as a prominent figure in the medical landscape. Recognized with prestigious awards like Rashtra Vibhushan and Rashtriya Rattan, Dr. Gianchandani has left an indelible mark on the healthcare sector. Her role in the Maharashtra government's task force on Organ Transplant, aiming to position the state as a hub for medical tourism, showcases her commitment to advancing healthcare services.

With over two decades of experience, Dr. Gianchandani's global exposure includes working with the Ministry of Health, and Hospital Services in Singapore. Her responsibilities involved spearheading strategic development for integrated and holistic healthcare. 

Dr. Gianchandani's leadership extends beyond managing hospitals; it encompasses a holistic approach to healthcare development. Her journey exemplifies the fusion of administrative acumen, medical expertise, and a vision for comprehensive healthcare solutions. As we celebrate International Women's Day, Dr. Tarang Gianchandani stands as a beacon of leadership, breaking barriers, and shaping the future of healthcare in India and beyond.

Ms. Chandra Ganjoo, Group CEO, Trivitron Healthcare

“Her story exemplifies the potential for growth, transformation, and leadership that women can achieve in the dynamic landscape of global healthcare”. 

Ms. Chandra Ganjoo, stands at the helm of a global medical technology company, steering it towards a new phase of profitable growth. Her journey within Trivitron Healthcare, which began in 1999, is a testament to her multifaceted skills and unwavering commitment.

Over the years, Ms. Ganjoo has donned various roles within the organization, showcasing her versatility and dedication. Particularly in the last five years, she played a pivotal role as the company transformed from a trading and distribution entity to a global R&D and manufacturing MNC. Her exceptional people management skills, hard work, adherence to processes, and unwavering commitment have been the bedrock of this transition.

Ms. Ganjoo's impact extends beyond the organizational structure; she has been instrumental in expanding Trivitron's global footprint through organic and inorganic growth initiatives. As a key driver of the organization's 3 P's Strategy—People, Process, and Performance—she has played a crucial role in shaping its trajectory.

She recognizes the importance of mentorship and sponsorship, specially tailored for women, Ms. Ganjoo champions inclusive workplaces. Mentorship provides crucial guidance and support, aiding women in navigating the intricacies of their careers. 

Her role & leadership fortified by years of experience and a commitment to inclusivity, becomes a beacon of inspiration. Her story exemplifies the potential for growth, transformation, and leadership that women can achieve in the dynamic landscape of global healthcare. 

Dr. Shilpa Tatake, Group COO at Jupiter Hospital

“I feel passion and perseverance a key to success. Gender will never be a point of discussion if we are determined to achieve what we aim at”.

Dr. Shilpa Tatake's remarkable two-decade journey in the healthcare industry is a testament to her passion, resilience, and inclusive leadership. As she reflects on her experiences, she finds fascination in the daily challenges that come with the territory, recognizing each scenario as an opportunity for growth and innovation.

For Dr. Tatake, healthcare isn't just a profession; it's a means to touch human lives and make a positive impact. Her leadership philosophy revolves around inclusivity, treating every team member equitably, and empowering them to handle situations independently. Trust is paramount in her leadership style, and she believes in standing by her team, especially during challenging times.

Facing threats and opposition, including threatening calls and resistance from union leaders while investigating malpractices, Dr. Tatake emerged stronger and more confident. Her unwavering belief in good intentions and transparent communication has been her guiding force, allowing her to navigate through adversities successfully.

Grateful for visionary mentors like CMD Dr. Ajay Thakker, Dr. Tatake has imbibed a culture of 'out-of-the-box' thinking and a commitment to 'Patient first.' Her journey is also enriched by the unwavering support of her family, including her parents, husband, in-laws, and her two sons. 

Passion and perseverance, according to Dr. Shilpa Tatake, are the keys to success. In her eyes, gender should never be a point of discussion when determination fuels one's ambitions. 

Ms. Veena Kohli, Founder & CEO Of Vanguard Diagnostics

"Challenge the Norm," encourages women of all ages to break free from societal molds, seek financial independence, and shape their destinies while keeping joy at the center of their endeavors”.

In the dynamic realm of healthcare leadership, Ms. Veena Kohli's journey stands as a testament to resilience and innovation. Armed with a robust education from AIIMS, New Delhi, and diverse experiences across India's healthcare landscape, she seamlessly transitioned into entrepreneurship with Vanguard Diagnostics.

A pivotal chapter unfolded during the challenging days of the COVID-19 pandemic, where Ms. Kohli and her team at Vanguard Diagnostics displayed agility and innovation. They responded with urgency, developing the indigenous Viral Transport Medium kit and collaborating with DRDO for the COVID-19 ELISA antibody test, addressing not only the immediate crisis but also highlighting the importance of self-reliance in healthcare.

Ms. Kohli's leadership philosophy revolves around leading by example, emphasizing training, support, and meticulous attention to detail. As a mentor at the Regional Centre for Biotechnology-DBT, she actively engages with start-ups, contributing to their growth. Her significant impact extends to her role as the first woman President of the Association of Diagnostics Manufacturers of India, where she played a pivotal role in policy formation, spearheading initiatives that bolstered India's self-reliance in COVID-19 detection. Notably, Ms. Kohli's efforts resulted in the revision of the Public Procurement Order, a landmark moment for the Indian Diagnostics Industry, promoting Aatmanirbharta.

Balancing professional commitments with a fulfilling personal life, Ms. Kohli acknowledges the unwavering support of her family. Her journey encapsulates the idea that a steady ascent in one's career, coupled with patience and hard work, can lead to impactful contributions and transformative success.

Dr. Rishma Dhillon Pai, Honorary Consultant Gynaecologist at the Lilavati, Jaslok, and Hinduja Hospitals, Mumbai

“We all are bright, hard-working individuals. Don’t be satisfied with just doing your medical duties, you are capable of much more. Follow your passion and live life to the fullest! Life is multidimensional, explore many new areas not just medical practice.”

Dr. Rishma Pai stands as a beacon of empowerment and achievement in the field of gynecology and women's health. Her journey from a humble beginning to becoming the President of prominent gynecological organizations in India and a respected member of the International Federation of Fertility Societies is nothing short of inspiring. With over three decades of practice under her belt, Dr. Pai has faced numerous challenges and celebrated countless successes in her profession. From performing surgeries to overseeing IVF procedures and deliveries, each patient's journey has been a testament to her dedication and skill.

Dr. Pai's leadership philosophy is grounded in humility, compassion, and hard work. She believes in nurturing the growth of others in the field, using her positions of influence to bring about positive changes and support underprivileged communities. Behind every successful woman is often a supportive partner, and for Dr. Pai, that partner is her husband, Dr. Hrishikesh Pai. His unwavering support has been her guiding light throughout her journey.

Driven by her passion for her work and fueled by the love and respect she receives from her patients and colleagues, Dr. Pai is a shining example of a woman who balances professional success with personal fulfillment. She encourages women to embrace their multifaceted abilities and lead by example, while also urging medical professionals to explore new dimensions beyond their practice.

Dr. Rishma Pai's story is not just one of individual achievement, but also a testament to the power of dedication, leadership, and the impact of women in shaping a brighter future for women's health worldwide.

Ms. Alka Goel, Founder & Managing Partner, Alkemi Growth Capital

“Focus on your capabilities, focus on competence and I think at the end of the day, keep going keep going, keep doing bit by bit. It's like the woodpecker keeps, at it and the outcome is bound to happen”. 

Ms. Alka Goel's journey, much like a garden with its tulips, roses, sunflowers, and thorns, has been a blend of beautiful successes and challenging moments. As the driving force behind Alkemi, she embraces both the highs and lows, recognizing that each day brings new challenges and opportunities. Through experience, she emphasizes the importance of patience, open communication, and strategic evaluation in overcoming obstacles.

In her eyes, leadership styles cannot be one-size-fits-all. Instead, she believes in adapting traits to different situations. Sometimes a consensus approach works best, while in other instances, decisions must be made swiftly and independently. Her approach is inclusive, with a focus on listening to diverse perspectives before making informed choices. While she acknowledges that perfection isn't attainable, the commitment to trying one's best remains unwavering.

Mentorship, for Ms. Goel, extends beyond a single person. She values seeking advice and support from a diverse range of individuals, each excelling in different domains. Alkemi is fortunate to have supportive investors who act as thought partners, contributing to its success.

Success, to Ms. Goel, is not just measured in grand achievements but in the tiny wins that happen every day. She finds fulfillment in inspiring, motivating, and encouraging others, leaving a positive impact on their journeys.

Balancing personal and professional life is an ongoing challenge, requiring trade-offs and optimization of time. Ms. Goel credits her success to the support of a village—her family, spouse, colleagues, and network. The key, she believes, is to focus on capabilities and competence, transcending gender stereotypes.

In her advice to women, Ms. Goel encourages them to see themselves as individuals, emphasizing competence and persistence. She advocates for focusing on capabilities, taking one step at a time, and persevering through challenges. 

Capt. Dr. Usha Banerjee, Group Nursing Director - Apollo Hospitals, Delhi

“Celebrate the essence of womanhood. Embrace your femininity as a source of power, not weakness. Your journey as a woman is unique and valuable. Embrace every aspect of it with pride and grace”.

Capt. Usha Banerjee's career trajectory is a meteoric rise, serving as a model for others in the healthcare industry. With over 18 years at Apollo Hospitals, she has become an integral part of groundbreaking clinical work, contributing beyond her role. Recognized for academic excellence and awarded by the President of India and the Indian Army early in her career, Capt. Banerjee feels a sense of responsibility to give back.

She remains motivated by the freedom to innovate and contribute to the larger healthcare ecosystem. Her leadership involves navigating various challenges such as change management, patient safety, and workforce issues. As a leader, she has created an environment where key stakeholders collaborate for actionable solutions, accelerating change and fostering innovative research. Capt. Banerjee prioritizes quality initiatives, redesigns governance models, and enhances work-life balance for nurses. Her transformative, transactional, and relationship-oriented leadership has improved patient outcomes and satisfaction.

Capt. Banerjee emphasizes the importance of self-care and work-life balance, juggling her professional role and managing her home seamlessly. Her supportive family and a strong network of friends contribute to her ability to find joy in life. 

She follows and advocates to celebrate the essence of womanhood. Embrace your femininity as a source of power, not weakness. Dare to dream big and chase your ambitions fearlessly & empower yourself from within.

Ms. Manjiri Bakre, Founder & CEO of OncoStem Diagnostics

“Do not overthink issues or complain too much, just focus on the task at hand, give your 100%, and do it to accomplish the end goal with satisfaction and happiness. The rest will sort itself out”.

Ms. Manjiri Bakre's leadership journey is a tale of exceptional growth and learning over the past 13 years. In her dynamic role, she's navigated challenges ranging from establishing a company to securing investments and conducting studies with hospitals. Despite the hurdles, she has thrived, recognizing that solutions often lie in thinking outside the box.

Her leadership style is characterized by a proactive approach to problem-solving, swiftly addressing issues faced by herself and her team, and aiming for sustainable solutions. While she doesn't adhere to a specific leadership model, her focus on prompt resolution and adaptability defines her success.

Mentorship plays a crucial role in her professional development. She draws inspiration from various individuals contributing selflessly to society, with her father-in-law, Prof R Srinivasan, a notable physicist, serving as a close-to-home example. 

In managing work-life balance, she emphasizes the importance of mental disposition, giving her full attention to work and family when needed. Incorporating daily exercise as her "me time" contributes to her overall well-being. Ms.Bakre's advice to women is pragmatic and empowering – focus on the task at hand, give 100% and strive for satisfaction and happiness. 

Ms. Anu Moturi, CEO Of Kriya Group Of Companies

“Challenge the Norm," encourages women of all ages to break free from societal molds, seek financial independence, and shape their destinies while keeping joy at the center of their endeavors”.

Ms. Anu Moturi's journey into leadership began in the corporate realm of a Fortune 10 company, where she acquired management skills but found herself unprepared for the role of a "Founder-CEO-Leader." In the dynamic landscape of entrepreneurship, she embraced an adaptive leadership style, swiftly evolving with her company's growth.

Describing her leadership as adaptive, Anu emphasizes being present in the moment and actively learning from her team. Her focus on empathy, non-judgmental collaboration, and inclusivity reflects a mindful and intentional approach to leadership, with her ultimate measure of success being the growth of every team member.

Recognizing the critical role of mentorship in professional growth, Anu emphasizes seeking guidance from diverse sources, including peer mentorship. Founding KRIYA Medical Technologies as a Make In India initiative has been the highlight of her career, driven by a passion for delivering quality healthcare globally.

Balancing work and personal life as a working mother, Anu advocates intentional time management for both family and personal well-being. Her mantra, "Challenge the Norm," encourages women of all ages to break free from societal molds, seek financial independence, and shape their destinies while keeping joy at the center of their endeavors. On International Women's Day, Anu Moturi stands as a testament to adaptive leadership, entrepreneurship, and the pursuit of joy in both professional and personal spheres.