As conversations around gender equality gain momentum, especially on occasions like International Women’s Day, the need for sustained, structured efforts to elevate women into leadership roles becomes increasingly vital. In this exclusive interaction with TheCSRUniverse, we delve into the philosophy and impact of the Shakti program—an institution-driven leadership initiative designed to upskill mid to senior-level women professionals across sectors. From addressing the gender gap in boardrooms to fostering a champion’s mindset, this program goes beyond symbolic gestures to deliver measurable transformation. Here’s a deep dive into how Shakti is shaping the future of inclusive leadership in India.
Q. What message would you like to convey about the Shakti event in the context of Women's Day, and what is its core purpose?
A. This event may have been a half-day program, but its significance lies beyond just these few hours. Just as in a cricket-loving nation, the outcome of a match is shaped not just by those 50 overs but by the practice and skill-building that precedes it. Similarly, the Shakti program has been evolving for years through careful planning, continuous improvement, and strategic design enhancements. Today’s session brought together eminent personalities from leading Indian companies, each reinforcing a common message this is a time of immense opportunity. And these opportunities are not limited to just women or men; they are for everyone. As India advances, particularly in the tech sector, we see greater female representation at middle management levels. However, boardroom positions remain largely male- dominated. While progress is being made, there is still a long way to go. The key to closing this gap lies in upskilling, Strengthening a champion’s mindset, and creating pathways for women to rise to top leadership roles. Over the next 8 to 10 years, the landscape is expected to shift rapidly, with more women securing positions at the highest levels. However, this journey cannot be completed in a single day and it requires continuous learning, preparation, and persistence.
Q. How can women achieve equal opportunities in the workplace, and what role shakti program plays in supporting them?
A. The key to growth is continuous upskilling. The Shakti program is designed specifically for industry professionals, offering a 40-hour, four-month hybrid program tailored for mid to senior-level leaders. The eligibility criteria require a minimum of five years of experience, making it ideal for professionals with 5 to 20 years of industry expertise.
Unlike open programs, Shakti is institution-driven, where organizations handpick 20 to 25 women leaders who would benefit the most. The program’s unique structure focuses on three key areas:
- Personal Competencies – Three modules aimed at self-development.
- Interpersonal Competencies – Two modules enhancing collaboration and leadership.
- Strategic & Transformative Competencies – Two modules focused on driving change and innovation.
The program is continuously refined to align with market needs, ensuring participants gain relevant skills and insights to advance in their careers. The latest batch included senior officers from leading corporations and government organizations, highlighting its impact and credibility.
Q. How long has the Shakti program been running, and what impact has it created so far?
A. That’s a great question. Let me answer it in the context of our recent program, where we worked with 32 senior officers from power corporations. Initially, many were hesitant to join, but their Managing Directors and General Managers encouraged them to participate. By the time they received their certificates at the convocation, they expressed how grateful they were for making that choice. This highlights the real impact of the program, transforming individuals at a personal, interpersonal, and strategic level. It’s more than just learning; it’s an experience that builds confidence, leadership skills, and a growth mindset. What makes this journey truly special is its collaborative nature. Even though some participants had 25 years of experience and were close to top leadership roles, they embraced the program as students, eager to grow. Seeing these transformations reinforces the program’s value, and we are incredibly proud of how it has evolved over time.
Q. On International Women's day what message do you want to give?
A. On International Women’s Day, my message is simple, there are no shortcuts to success. Upskilling and future readiness are the only ways to grow. Just like in cricket, where players spend countless hours in the nets before stepping onto the field, professionals must continuously learn, adapt, and refine their skills. The moments that demand critical decisions won’t come every day, but when they do, being well- prepared makes all the difference. So my message is: Upskill, upskill, upskill! The more you invest in yourself, the stronger and more confident you’ll be in seizing opportunities.
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