What does Int. Women’s Day mean to you?
Women are still struggling for basic rights all over the world. I am scared to think that every second, a woman is abused, exploited or humiliated because of her gender.
In my culture (South Indian), society and norms hinder gender equality in every step of life. Fortunately, I was born in a family where gender had minimal significance in my progression. Growing up my sisters and I observed our mother multi-tasking and working full time as a lecturer, and our father managing his own business full time, and never hesitating to initiate household duties.
Despite all odds, we three sisters persisted to break the (cultural) norm, biased towards males.
International Women’s Day is a time to recognise gender equality in all life opportunities and celebrate respect, empowerment and support.
Women who have influenced your leadership style…
Every woman who challenges herself every day with work life balance is my inspiration, but in particular…
Mercy Manjula (my mother), Kalpana Chawla (NASA astronaut and aerospace engineer) and Jacinda Ardern (former New Zealand Prime Minister)