Women leaders inspire future generations
Women play an extraordinary role in enriching communities, supporting families and building stronger workplaces. In the last few years, they have been at the helm of change across industries and geographies. Today, more women are taking up leadership roles and thereby challenging stereotypes. These women leaders are setting new benchmarks and inspiring the youth by breaking barriers.
Super-achievers such as Banker - Arundhati Bhattacharya, Missile Women – Tessy Thomas, the youngest Nobel laureate – Malala Yousafzai or Deepa Malik - the first paraplegic woman in the world to drive across 9 high-altitude passes in Leh-Ladakh are powerful role models for women who continue to fight in the face of adversity. These pioneering women have shattered the glass ceiling and proven their mettle. They have established the feelings of hope and fulfilment in the lives of men and women, alike. The achievements of these women and their legacy of challenging the traditional mind-set is a source of inspiration for millions of women across the globe.
Similarly, unsung heroes in rural areas are guiding other women towards financial independence and becoming powerful agents of positive change. Preeti Gupta from a small village outside Agra and Lakshmi Mukherjee from Dhapadhipi, West Bengal are examples of women in rural India who are building stronger businesses, families and communities. They are part of Coca-Cola’s ‘5by20’ initiative that offers them access to business skills training courses, financial services and connections with mentors. Increased opportunities for generating income have helped in the emergence of women entrepreneurs. The initiative has successfully helped build confidence amongst women by not only empowering them financially but also encouraging them to catalyse change in their communities by becoming members of Panchayats and head the village as Sarpanchs.
These advancements on women empowerment standards will reach the whole community, spur economic growth and foster sustainable development. Thus, creating tremendous impact on the society. CocaCola believes that when women succeed in their communities, the communities themselves succeed in terms of overall prosperity and health. We are committed to ensure that women get access to the expertise and skills that will allow them to succeed.
These motivating stories of women achieving excellence are empowering more women to follow their dreams and realise their true potential. I believe that women leaders are true examples of relentlessness because they are not only achieving their professional goals but are also effectively managing their life goals. Today, we are witnessing more and more women undertaking active leadership roles in the welfare and development of a country. They are working towards creating a more sustainable and inclusive future. While we are increasing
the momentum towards gender equality and the empowerment of every girl and woman, much work needs to be done and the time is now.
So, the next time you are fighting in the face of an adversity think of these exceptional women leaders and their determination and perseverance. When you are climbing the corporate ladder or trying to seize that next opportunity, these inspiring examples can give you the power to rise against all adversities and achieve your individual success. Do not just admire or look up to them but learn from them and create your own success story. They urge you to envision a future of unlimited possibilities where you can spread your wings and fly.