Celebrating International Women’s Day
Acknowledging their ingenuity, perseverance, passion and pursuit of excellence!
As the world advances towards a more inclusive and diverse future, the role of women in engineering and entrepreneurship has become more pivotal than ever. Breaking barriers, challenging stereotypes, and driving innovation, women engineers and entrepreneurs are not just contributing their best to industries but reshaping them. On the occasion of International Women’s Day, we celebrate the relentless spirit, resilience, and achievements of women who have carved a niche for themselves in domains traditionally dominated by men.
This feature brings together voices of remarkable women who continue to break new ground, proving that the future of engineering and entrepreneurship is promising, empowering and undeniably bright. – Editor
If you love what you do and are willing to put in the effort, success will follow. Believe in yourself, work hard, and make it happen.
Anya Geraldine D’Souza
Vice President, Global Marketing,
Elgi Equipments Limited
Key challenges faced:
I’ve been incredibly fortunate to have had exceptional leaders and managers who have believed in me, provided guidance, and advocated for me, over the course of my career. However, one of the key challenges I faced early on—particularly as a student—was the absence of visible femalerole models in the corporate world. Role models play a pivotal role in shaping aspirations and career choices, and when women see other women achieving their goals, it reinforces their belief that they too can succeed. Another challenge that many women encounter, including myself, is navigating unconscious gender biases. Additionally, access to influential networks and sponsors—key drivers of career advancement—is often more limited for women.
Over the course of my career – I’m aimed to root my approach in authenticity, resilience, and results. I believe confidence is key – speaking up, taking ownership of your decisions, and asserting expertise, helps establish one’s credibility. Quintessential is mastering technical and business knowledge apart from developing robust and authentic people and leadership skills. And finally, important, if not critical, is building a strong network of mentors and having a strong support system, to ensure one navigates one’s career with the utmost professionalism and resilience.
Steps organizations should take to accelerate gender inclusivity:
The landscape of traditionally male-dominated industries is already evolving; sectors like manufacturing, engineering, and technology are seeing steady progress, reflected in rising female participation. For example, in India, women now make up approximately 29.7% of engineering undergraduates, signalling a positive shift toward greater representation in technical fields.
Achieving gender equality is not just about policies—it’s about changing mindsets and behaviours across an entire organization. Real progress happens only when everyone—men and women—actively participate in driving change.
At ELGi, we’re focused on driving gender inclusivity through structured initiatives that empower women in manufacturing in both white and blue-collar roles. From employing women on the shop floor and establishing all-women production lines, to offering ELGi Vocational Training School (EVTS) opportunities to under-privileged young girls to introducing shop-floor policies that focus on workplace safety, health, and career development, providing nutritional support, maternity benefits, fitness programs, and counselling. With creche facilities, structured mentorship, and skill-building programs, ELGi is committed to fostering a workplace where women can thrive at every stage of their careers.
Advice to young aspiring women:
The first and most courageous step in any journey is to take charge of your own growth. Think deeply about what you want, believe in yourself, and go after your goals with confidence. Stay true to who you are, always.
Big dreams lead to bold visions. Yet, across the world, 132 million girls are out of school, and gender disparities persist in education due to barriers like poverty, child marriage, and lack of safe learning spaces. Despite these challenges, every young girl has the power to seize opportunities, find her passion, and pursue her dreams.
No matter where you come from, your dreams are valid. What truly matters is your dedication, resilience, and willingness to push forward. If you love what you do and are willing to put in the effort, success will follow. Believe in yourself, work hard, and make it happen.
Women of today are powerful, equal, and unstoppable—no special treatment needed; just trust in their strength and potential
Jayalakshmi P.
Asst. General Manager,
Timken India Ltd.
Women today are proving their strength, intelligence, and capabilities across all domains, from science and technology to leadership and entrepreneurship. The world is witnessing a shift where women are no longer seen as needing special privileges; instead, they are recognized as equals, capable of achieving great success.
Empowerment does not mean giving special treatment. It means acknowledging the inherent strength, intelligence, and potential that women already possess. It means trusting their abilities, providing equal opportunities, and fostering confidence.
For generations, women were seen as dependent on men—whether financially, socially, or emotionally. However, today’s world is changing. Women do not need privileges; they need belief and support. When provided with equal access to education, jobs, and leadership roles, they don’t just succeed—they thrive.
While equal opportunities and societal support are crucial, family support is the foundation upon which every empowered woman stands. A supportive family gives a woman the confidence to chase her dreams without fear.
A woman who is supported by her family feels unstoppable. When families encourage women to follow their dreams, whether in education, career, or personal aspirations, they create a ripple effect of empowerment.
Real empowerment comes when we trust women’s decisions, capabilities, and leadership. It means recognizing that women are not just contributors to society—they are its builders, innovators, and leaders.
As a society, we must ask ourselves: Do we truly believe in gender equality? If we do, then we must stop questioning women’s abilities and start trusting in their strength.
Women’s success is not about competing with men but about being given equal opportunities to showcase their talent and skills. The world is finally recognizing that intelligence, innovation, and leadership, and not gender-specific traits. When given the same resources, education, and support, women thrive just as much as men—if not more.
Even though women have proven their strength and competence, there are still obstacles—unequal pay, gender biases, workplace discrimination, and societal expectations. But we are seeing a shift. The world is recognizing that when women rise, the entire nation progresses.
It is not just about women’s success—it is about human progress. Educated, empowered women raise educated children, contribute to economies, and make societies more just and equal.
Women today are excelling, leading, and transforming the world—not because they were given power, but because they always had it. The only difference now is that they are finally being seen, heard, and given the space to thrive.
But true empowerment will be achieved when we no longer need to talk about “women excelling”—because it will simply be the norm; when we no longer compare women with men; because success will not be about gender, but about talent and effort.
So let us continue to stand together—not just to empower women, but to create a world where empowerment is no longer necessary—because equality is the foundation of society; because when women succeed, the world succeeds.”
From Ambition to Action: How Young Women Can Excel in Engineering, Entrepreneurship, and Leadership
Rashmi Bhangale
Head Special Project- Enterprise Security Platform,
Jio Platforms Ltd.
Women in engineering, entrepreneurship, and leadership have achieved goals—not because the path was easy, but because they chose to rise above challenges and redefine possibilities. The world is changing. Opportunities are growing. But success still demands strategy, resilience, courage, and continuous learning. Whether you’re just starting or aiming for the top, here’s how to build a career – taking simple yet stern steps:
1. Think Like a CEO: Plan Five Moves Ahead
Success doesn’t happen by luck—it happens by strategy. Your career is like a chess game—strong players don’t just think about their next move; they think five moves ahead. Whether you’re launching a startup, managing a project, or leading a team, always have a roadmap.
2. Resilience: Fail, Learn, and Come Back Stronger
Have you ever failed a test, lost an opportunity, or faced rejection? Good. That means you’re trying. The strongest professionals aren’t the ones who never fall—they’re the ones who get up every time. Don’t let setbacks define you—let them refine you.
3. Empathy: Lead with Influence, Not Just Authority
Inside us, two forces battle—ego and empathy. The leader who wins is the one who uplifts others and builds trust. Women in leadership must develop emotional intelligence (EQ)—the ability to understand, support, and inspire teams. Your success isn’t just about you. Great leaders create opportunities for others to grow.
4. Curiosity: Smash Barriers & Own the Room
The biggest limitation? The one you believe in. Never let the fear of being the only woman in the room stop you from speaking up, innovating, or taking bold risks. Ask questions. Challenge assumptions. Stay ahead of industry trends. Never stop learning. Take on projects that push your limits. Stop asking “Can I?” and start asking “Why not?”
5. Mentors Open Doors You Never Knew Existed
For years, bamboo grows invisible roots before shooting up 90 feet overnight. Your career is the same. The right mentor accelerates your growth by building a strong foundation and helps you navigate challenges. Look for someone with experience in your field. Join women’s leadership groups and engineering forums. Build genuine relationships, not just professional connections.
6. Integrity: The One Leadership Trait You Can’t Fake
Integrity means doing the right thing—even when no one is watching. In business and leadership, ethics aren’t optional. You can earn back lost money—but lost trust? That’s gone forever.
7. Collaboration: Your Network is Your Net Worth
The best ideas don’t come from one mind—they come from many.
Different perspectives create better solutions. A great leader doesn’t have all the answers—they build a team that does. Surround yourself with people who challenge, inspire, and push you to grow.
8. Courage: Take the Leap Before You Feel Ready
I remember walking into a meeting as the only woman in the room. My heart raced, but then I reminded myself—I deserved to be there.
Courage isn’t about having no fear—it’s about taking action despite the fear. Speak up—even when it’s uncomfortable. Say yes to new challenges before you feel “ready.” Take risks that push you forward.
9. Perseverance: The Ultimate Secret to Success
A river doesn’t stop when it meets a rock—it carves through it.
The most successful leaders, engineers, and entrepreneurs don’t quit. See obstacles as stepping stones, not barriers. Keep moving forward, no matter how slow. Show up every day. That’s how breakthroughs happen.
10. Final Words: The World Needs You
“With dreams in your eyes and fire in your belly—go create opportunities, challenge limits, and lead the way.”
Are you ready to step up and own your success? Your future is waiting!
I observe a gradual shift in traditionally male-dominated sectors, with more women entering technical fields. Yet, the climb to leadership remains steep
Sujal Shah Sheth
Director, NewAge Fire Fighting Co. Ltd.
National Convenor, IPA Neerathon, IPA I Advocacy Zonal Chair, ISHRAE
National Chair, Surakshit Naari, FSAI
Challenges in a Male-Dominated Industry:
When you have deep subject knowledge and are committed to your work, respect follows naturally. Unlike many narratives that highlight struggles, I have not faced major challenges as a woman in my industry. Instead, I believe that expertise and a strong work ethic are the true differentiators.
However, a glaring reality is that women remain underrepresented in decision-making and top management roles. “The challenge is not about proving oneself but about ensuring that more women step into leadership positions.
The Evolving Role of Women in Leadership:
I observe a gradual shift in traditionally male-dominated sectors, with more women entering technical fields. Yet, the climb to leadership remains steep. I believe organizations must actively work toward fostering gender inclusivity by:
- Creating structured mentorship programs to guide and support aspiring women leaders.
- Providing equal opportunities for leadership roles based on merit.
- Building an inclusive work culture that values diversity in decision-making.
- Showcasing successful women leaders to inspire the next generation.
Diversity at the top is not just about gender equality—it’s about bringing fresh perspectives and driving innovation.
Advice to Young Women Aspiring for Leadership:
For young women looking to build careers in engineering, entrepreneurship, or leadership, I have this straightforward yet powerful advice:
Develop deep expertise—Knowledge is the foundation of success
Take initiative—Seek responsibilities that highlight leadership potential
Build strong networks—Surround yourself with mentors and allies
Be assertive—Opportunities are rarely handed out; ask for them.
Stay resilient—Challenges are part of the journey, but persistence leads to success.
Leadership is about capability, commitment, and confidence I would say. If you focus on excellence, success will follow.”
The role of women in traditionally male-dominated sectors has already evolved significantly over the past few decades, and this trend will continue to accelerate
Madhavi Chandkar
Marketing Manager,
Rossi Gearmotors (Inda)
Key challenges faced:
Having absolutely no engineering background had its challenges especially in fields like industrial product manufacturing, where the technical knowledge can feel overwhelming without an engineering background. It took determination to dive into understanding the products and processes with limited resources available, especially in the early days of the internet. Relying on available literature and the support of seniors and colleagues helped me understand better and deliver results. Along with collaboration and mentorship, passion, resilience and willingness to learn, I could overcome the challenges.
The role of women in traditionally male-dominated sectors has already evolved significantly over the past few decades, and this trend will continue to accelerate. With the shift in societal attitudes and growing awareness of gender equality, more women are entering fields such as technology, engineering, high level tech leadership roles, finance, construction, and leadership positions within organizations.
Today there is increased representation by women in roles once dominated by men. Women are not just entering technical roles; they are also rising to leadership positions, contributing to strategic decision-making.
Steps organizations could take to accelerate gender Inclusivity:
Establishing mentorship programs specifically for women in male-dominated fields can help them navigate their careers, providing them with the guidance and support they need to succeed. Companies should offer leadership training programs targeting high-potential women to prepare them for roles in management and executive positions.
Many women are balancing their careers with family or care-giving responsibilities. Offering flexible working hours, remote work options, and parental leave policies can make it easier for women to thrive in male-dominated industries.
Men can be powerful allies in driving gender inclusivity. Organizations should encourage male leaders to be outspoken advocates for gender equality and use their platform to support female colleagues.
Clear and transparent hiring, promotion, and evaluation processes help reduce biases and ensure that women are given equal opportunities to succeed.
Let us dispel myths about women’s abilities and promote the idea that gender does not determine aptitude or leadership potential, we have a lot of such example set by powerful women like Indra Nooyi, Kiran Majumdar Shaw and many more.
Advice to young women aspiring to build successful careers in engineering:
Believe in your potential and trust in your abilities. Don’t be afraid to speak up or take initiative. Confidence is the game-changer. Seek mentorship and build a support network. The fields of engineering, entrepreneurship, and leadership are ever- evolving. Constantly seek new knowledge, certifications, or skills, whether through formal education, online courses, or hands-on experience. While technical expertise is crucial, soft skills like communication, leadership, and problem-solving are just as important, especially in leadership and entrepreneurial roles.
There will be challenges, biases, and moments of failure. Don’t be discouraged. Instead, use these experiences as stepping stones to grow stronger and more capable. Cultivate the ability to adapt and recover from difficulties. Resilience is one of the most powerful traits successful women possess.
Stay true to your principles and values, even in the face of challenges. Authentic leadership is respected, and staying aligned with your values will give you the confidence and clarity to make the right decisions.
A woman brings warmth, a sense of belonging and a ‘feel good factor’ to an organisation
Dr. Jyoti D. Vora
CEO,
Dhirang Consultants, Mumbai
Quite often, we fall into the trap of aping the opposite gender. In order to be deeply respected by self and peers, follow the adage, “Be a Woman and not a Man”. The XX organism…true blue Biochemistry, the viewpoint, the ethos and the general temperament is unique. This advantage needs to be recognised and capitalised on. One’s native personality is one’s greatest asset, and this well managed becomes a Resource. As a woman and happily well- adjusted professional, one can be an inspiration to any task force.
Incidentally, besides being an Entrepreneur and Academician, Mentor and Researcher, I am a recruiter now…hence the inside story says that the aspects of hesitation in the minds of a job giver are centric to many factors. The engineering industry being a male dominated one, apprehension about corporate values, time management, work-life balance and a perceived unprofessional approach are nodal in us not getting the top slots.
Let us see how to generate some life enriching solutions. The first thing is that “We are what we eat”….beautifully enunciated by our Ancestors as, “Anna He Purna Brahma”(at the fulcrum of all Genesis or Creation is food).
Recognise the holistic synergy between Diet and Disease, the erratic time schedules around which an average working day operates and the Circadian Rhythm and address them with priority. It would always benefit you if your profile is Wellness oriented. The challenges, crests and troughs of an enterprise are always better handled by an Entrepreneur with a healthy body in a healthy mind.
A woman is capable of using her natural qualities to bring motivation, grit and a sense of purpose to the organisation she leads. As women, we manage families…we manage them well. Naturally, there is a plethora of qualities in each family member. As an analogy, the same holds good for the Workspace. A woman brings warmth, a sense of belonging and ‘feel good factor’ to an Organisation. Research has shown that employees prefer working as Colleagues, team members and sub-ordinates for a Woman superior. The principal reason for this is that we do a great job of knitting teams together and provide a family touch.
Women Drive the Market, due to their astute and pragmatic approach to life. They make up the majority of enlightened consumers. They are rather unforgiving in quality lapses and always lead by example. If the Entrepreneur in you recognises these aspects in her enterprise, then to be a successful Entrepreneur is the most natural thing to happen. Self-affirmation is the key to success as a job giver. Here are some simple things one needs to tell oneself every day…even every moment:
- You are a WONDROUS Soul
- Don’t change
- Be your best YOU
- You are the best
- You bring out the best in others.
If you enjoy implementing this Five Mantra Formula to maintain Life-Work balance, then you would be iconic and a role model to be emulated by others (gender notwithstanding.)
Just enjoy conversations with yourself and realize that there is always the next Horizon.
“SUCCESS IS LIKING WHAT YOU ARE DOING AND THE WAY YOU DO IT”
Two potent postscripts:
- EVERYDAY IS WOMEN’S DAY
- AN IDEAL SOCIETY IS WHERE THERE IS NO NEED TO EMPOWER WOMEN…THEY ARE ALREADY SHAKTI ROOP.
It is now level playing field for men and women as laborious work in factories is taken over by robots and automation
Mohini Kelkar
Director(Marketing), Grind Master
Vice President, IMTMA
Digitalisation & IoT have evolved the role of engineers substantially. In fact it is now level playing field for men and women as laborious work in factories is done by robots and automation. IoT and AI have created equal opportunities for men and women in all spheres. Extensive growth in manufacturing is also leading to shortage of skilled manpower in hardcore manufacturing, and I think this is a great opportunity for women. The world is looking at us as the fastest growing economy. Geopolitical barriers are creating more opportunities for Indian males and females alike. Entrepreneurs should take this on immediately. It is like ‘now or never’ situation.
