This edition features a handful of business Most Influential Women Leaders Shaping India's Future that are at the forefront of leading us into a digital future
Insurers' journeys to build a mastery in the IoT usage
Most Influential Women Leaders Shaping India's Future.pdf
1. www.theknowledgereview.in
Vol. 03 | Issue 02 | 2024
Vol. 03 | Issue 02 | 2024
Vol. 03 | Issue 02 | 2024
Shaping
India's Future
Most
Influential
omen
Leaders
Psychologist,
Psychotherapist,
Founder, and Director,
Feeling Minds
Vedic Vastu Expert,
Geopathologist
President
Founder, and Director,
Feeling Samskar -
The Life School Minds
2.
3.
4. As women leaders continue to ascend to
positions of influence and authority,
they catalyze positive changes in social
norms, challenging traditional stereotypes. By
advocating for policies that promote gender
equity, investing in education and healthcare for
women and girls, and championing initiatives
that empower marginalized communities, these
leaders foster a more inclusive and prosperous
society for all. Their visionary leadership not
only drives progress in the present but also lays
the foundation for a more equitable and
sustainable future for generations to come.
In our special edition, “Most Influential
Women Leaders Shaping India's Future,” The
Knowledge Review celebrates the most
influential women leaders who are shaping
India's future. As we witness a transformative era
Paragons of
Highlighting the
Excellence
PowerofWomen
5. with women at the helm of leadership across various
sectors, it becomes imperative to recognize and amplify
their voices.
The need for women leaders has never been more
pressing. With their unique perspectives, diverse
experiences, and unparalleled resilience, women leaders
bring a different dimension to decision-making processes.
Their leadership styles often emphasize collaboration,
empathy, and inclusivity, which are crucial in navigating
the complexities of today's world.
The motive behind curating this edition is twofold. Firstly,
it's a tribute to the remarkable achievements of these
women who have shattered glass ceilings and blazed trails
in their respective fields. Secondly, it's a call to action to
acknowledge and support the continued rise of women
leaders, recognizing the immense value they bring to
society.
In this edition, we delve into the stories, insights, and
achievements of these extraordinary women leaders,
celebrating their contributions and acknowledging the
transformative power of women's leadership in shaping
India's future.
Have an engaging read!
Gopal Ingole
Editor’s
Note
6. Profiles
Articles
14
Health Guardian and
Immunity’s Best Friend
IMMUNO LIFE’s Commitment to Health
and Wellness
24
22
Building a Culture of Inclusion
Empowering Women in
the Workplace
Championing
Diversity
The Importance of
Intersec onality in
Women's Leadership
CXO
7. Dr. Chinu Agrawal
Promo ng Mental
Well-Being with Efficacy
Dr. Jayshree Om
Harmonizing Ancient
Wisdom with Modern
Architecture
08
18
28 Establishing a Holis c
Educa onal Set-up
in India
Ms Aruna Singh
9. Dr. Jayshree Om
Dr. Jayshree Om, a distinguished figure in the realm
of Vedic Vastu and Geopathology, seamlessly
integrates ancient wisdom with modern architectural
practices.
Dr. Chinu Agrawal
Brief
Name of the Person
Dr. Chinu seeks to create a brighter, healthier future
where mental health is recognized and supported on
a global scale. She has empowered thousands of
individuals and professionals to prioritize mental
well-being.
Vedic Vastu Expert and a
Geopathologist, Heofon
experience
Psychologist, Psychotherapist,
Founder, and Director of
Feeling Minds®
Designation
Nishtha Gupta
Nishtha Gupta is a seasoned Sustainability Professional
with over 15 years of expertise in Environmental, Social,
and Governance (ESG) initiatives.
Ms Aruna Singh
Ms Aruna aims to be a global beacon of
transformative education, fostering resilience, skills,
and values in students. she leads the institution with a
vision of academic excellence intertwined with ethical
and cultural values.
Head of Sustainability, Bureau
Veritas India Pvt. Ltd
President, Samskar-The
Life School
Punam Gupta
Punam Gupta is a renowned name in
entrepreneurship in India and globally. She completed
her post-graduation with Computer Science and Food
Nutrition, Mass Communication, Journalism, and LLB
diplomas.
Director, IMMUNO LIFE Pvt. Ltd
10. In this dynamic world, everyone is constantly chasing
accomplishments and material objectives while
undervaluing the power of a healthy body and mind.
Today, it is clearly apparent that maintaining one's mental
health is equally important as one's physical health.
However, this was not the situation just a few years ago. At
that time, leaders like Dr. Chinu Agrawal paved the way
for the de-stigmatization of mental health and mental
illness.
Dr. Chinu Agrawal, Psychologist, Psychotherapist,
Founder, and Director of Feeling Minds®, has excelled in
transforming people's vision of mental health. Through her
research based strategies, she brought a wave of awareness
and healed many. She started with a strong desire to help
people and a mission to use Psychology to transform
people's lives and end their emotional pain. She saw the
critical need for emotional education among Indian youth
early in her career, as a senior professional in the training
and development department of a prestigious university in
Northern India.
She firmly believed that providing academic instruction to
children is insufficient; and so she felt that her team must be
trained in critical coping mechanisms to help manage
students daily stressors, emotional setbacks, and upsets.
Over thirty-five thousand students in India are impacted by
E-Cube, a program created for the Experiential Emotional
Education. This experience spurred her investigation into
mental health on a larger scale. Feeling Minds® was
founded by her in 2016. Since then, her main goal has been
to equip Mental Health Professionals (MHPs) with the
necessary scientific instruments and techniques by training
them in various evidence based therapeutic approaches.
Dr. Agarwal also established a distinctive, scientifically
based Career Guidance and Counseling program after
realizing how important it was for school-age children to
receive career guidance. Thousands of students have
benefited from her scientific career counseling protocol,
To be a pioneering force in
the global field of Psychology, I
envision a future where mental
health and emo onal well-being
are priori zed and accessible to
individuals worldwide.
8 | March 2024
11. which helps students scientifically identify the best career to
not only become successful but also happy & effective in
both their personal & professional lives and job satisfaction.
She has trained and certified more than 130 career
counselors over the years, and these professionals now help
students make educated career decisions both domestically
and internationally.
After seeing how important parents are to their children's
emotional health, Dr. Chinu launched a Parenting Education
program. Through this program, professionals gained the
knowledge and scientific methods necessary to assist
parents in meeting the emotional needs of their kids and
developing stronger relationships with them. To date,
Feeling Minds® has successfully certified over 120 Expert
Parenting Educators.
She set out to create the first-ever six-month relationship
counseling certification program in India, motivated by the
growing difficulties people in relationships face today. With
three batches of certification and over 50 media outlets
covering it, this program hopes to certify over 100
Relationship Consultants by the end of 2024.
In 2022, KHDA, Dubai, approved Dr. Chinu and her team's
Social Emotional Learning program due to their global
efforts; the honorable president, Smt. Draupadi Murmu ji
and the former president of India, Ramnath Kovind ji,
acknowledged their contributions in succession. She is
recognized as a leading expert on school mental health.
This year, she was invited to address an international
assembly of educators at the esteemed University of
Cambridge.
A Kind Educator
Dr. Chinu served as the founding member of Training &
Development at the Sharda Group of Institutions (U.P.) for
ten years. The institute offered courses in medical and
management, eleven different engineering branches, B.
Pharma, and other diplomas at its four campuses and
fourteen colleges. As the Director of Education and
Training, she observed that most graduates suffered from
self-doubt, had a strong need for approval, were prone to
get depressed, and some even had suicidal ideatime. She
said a mental and emotional education deficit existed in
families, schools, and society.
She then started Suicide Prevention Groups, created and
shared videos, held workshops, and organized events to
raise awareness of mental and emotional health issues,
reach outed to as many students as possible in higher
education institutions and classrooms, and eventually reach
the general public.
Her determination to bring "Psychology to All" was sparked
by this measure. Her constant concern was ensuring that the
lessons and research revealed by psychology reached the
people who were meant to benefit from them, not just those
who could write thesis and dissertations. Her vision led her
to found Feeling Minds®, which offers exceptional
psychology-based training to Mental Health Professionals
in addition to individual counseling. Her team's primary
goal is to help people of all ages realize their full potential
and become more effective in their work, all while
enhancing the effectiveness of various organizations.
Most Influen al Women Leaders Shaping India's Future
www.theknowledgereview.in | 9
12. Contributions that Aim to Make a Difference
Dr. Chinu aspires to be an ambassador in the global
psychology field, seeing mental health and emotional well-
being as essential and widely available in the future. Her
goal is to be a guiding light for others, assisting them in
realizing their most significant potential, establishing deep
happiness, and promoting fulfillment for both the
individual and the community in which they live. In
keeping with that, she and her team hope to transcend
national boundaries and establish themselves as India's
first multinational business committed to raising the bar
for psychological practice, education, and
entrepreneurship.
As a founder and director of Feeling Minds®, Dr. Chinu
proudly says, "We are on a mission to continue being a
leading authority on mental health. Our commitment
involves actively contributing to discussions, awareness,
and initiatives that address individuals' diverse mental
health needs, making a positive impact on a global scale."
Her initiative aims to make a substantial contribution
toward eradicating the stigma attached to mental health
problems. They provide thorough, internationally acclaimed
training programs to empower professionals in their field.
They aim to develop a network of knowledgeable, morally
driven professionals who support people in achieving better
mental health. This calculated move aims to increase
psychological engagement and collaboration opportunities
with organizations, institutions, and corporations. The main
goal of Feeling Minds® is to improve emotional well-being
on a global scale.
Challenges through the Pandemic
Dr. Chinu battled many challenges as a professional in the
field of mental health. Addressing the social stigma
surrounding mental health awareness in Indian society was
tough. She has witnessed days when no one was open to
considering mental health as a serious matter, making it
challenging to create awareness, provide a safe space, and
build trust. Being the only psychologist in her city at one
time she took the plunge and conducted many workshops
for parents, teachers, healthcare professionals, and students.
These emotional educative programs were experiential, and
individuals themselves could tell her how learning about
emotions positively impacted their everyday lives.
10 | March 2024
13. Due to her persistent efforts, she saw that people's
perceptions of mental health issues were improving.
Through her venture, Feeling Minds®, she offered
programs exclusively conducted offline for professionals.
But the pandemic forced a shift towards the online mode.
The programs that emphasized experiential learning were
challenging. Dr. Chinu was quite skeptical about delivering
online classes with the same impact as in-person sessions at
that time.
With passion and dedication, the transition to the online
platforms was smoothly achieved. This provided an
opportunity to spread the work globally. The success rates
of online and offline workshops remained consistent, as
attested by positive student feedback.
The pandemic conditions put Dr. Chinu in a position to
think about how she could help those in need, especially
those staying at home. This led to the initiation of a series
of heart talks with Dr. Chinu Agrawal (available on the
YouTube channel Feeling Minds) as part of a mental health
program. These talks involved discussions on various
mental health issues with experts from across the globe.
She also took proactive steps by providing free training to
professionals and counselors on dealing with depression
anxiety and coping with grief and loss during pandemic.
Amongst these problematic situations, Dr. Chinu learned
more about herself and the resilience that can be found in
challenging circumstances.
She says, "Challenges are integral to personal and
professional growth, shaping the journey and contributing
to a deeper understanding of oneself."
A Dream of a Healthier Future
Dr. Chinu advises young learners to live life to the fullest
and uphold their core values. It is crucial to identify what is
essential and make choices that are aligned with these
choices. A holistic learning pattern is evident instead of
keeping it limited to academics. Ultimately, a fulfilling life
integrates passions, values, and continuous learning.
She is very enthusiastic about the upcoming endeavors of
Feeling Minds®. With the status of India's first multi-
speciality company in Psychology, she aspires to become
India's first multinational company in this domain. With a
zeal to practice ethical business practices and establish a
thriving community of professionals in Psychology, the
team collectively takes pride in their students'
achievements, which motivates them to encourage more
individuals to pursue fulfilling careers in Psychology.
Dr. Chinu plans to launch franchise centers nationwide and
abroad in the coming years. This strategic move will
broaden their reach and create new avenues for individuals
interested in Psychology to engage with them.
She is also thrilled to introduce upcoming programs like
Feeling Minds® Certified Emotional Educator and
Entrepreneurship Development in Psychology. They are
actively contributing to addressing the mental health needs
of men, an area that often receives less attention, with
Feeling Minds® Men's Mental Health Forum. They create a
safe space for discussions and awareness and provide
professional help.
Dr. Chinu aspires to unite people to form a vibrant
community dedicated to advancing psychology and
improving people's lives everywhere.
www.theknowledgereview.in | 11
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17. In today's rapidly evolving
workplace landscape, the
imperative of empowering women
has never been more pressing.
Achieving gender equality isn't merely
a moral obligation; it's a strategic
imperative for organizations committed
to fostering innovation, driving
productivity, and maximizing talent.
Central to this endeavor is the
cultivation of a culture of inclusion—a
workplace environment where women
are not only welcomed but also
empowered to thrive and lead.
Understanding the Importance of
Gender Diversity
Gender diversity isn't just about
fairness—it's about capitalizing on the
full spectrum of human potential.
Research consistently demonstrates
that organizations with diverse
leadership teams outperform their
homogenous counterparts. By bringing
together individuals with different
backgrounds, perspectives, and
experiences, organizations can foster
more robust decision-making
processes, drive innovation, and
enhance overall performance.
Breaking Down Barriers
Despite significant strides in recent
years, women continue to face
numerous barriers in the workplace,
ranging from unconscious bias and
gender stereotypes to systemic
inequalities in hiring, promotion, and
compensation. Addressing these
barriers requires a multifaceted
approach that encompasses policy
reforms, cultural shifts, and targeted
initiatives aimed at leveling the playing
field for women.
Building a Culture of Inclusion
www.theknowledgereview.in | 15
18. Promoting Equal Opportunities
At the heart of empowering women in
the workplace lies the principle of
equal opportunities. This entails
ensuring that women have access to the
same opportunities for advancement,
skill development, and leadership roles
as their male counterparts.
Implementing transparent and merit-
based promotion processes, providing
access to mentorship and sponsorship
programs, and offering equitable
compensation and benefits are essential
steps in promoting equal opportunities
for women.
Creating a Supportive Work
Environment
Building a culture of inclusion requires
creating a supportive work
environment where women feel
valued, respected, and heard. This
involves fostering an organizational
culture that prioritizes diversity, equity,
and inclusion (DEI) at all levels.
Leaders play a pivotal role in setting
the tone for inclusivity by championing
diversity, modeling inclusive
behaviors, and holding others
accountable for fostering a respectful
and inclusive workplace culture.
Empowering Through Education
and Training
Empowering women in the workplace
also entails providing them with the
necessary skills, knowledge, and
resources to succeed. Investing in
training and development programs
tailored to women's needs can help
enhance their confidence, competence,
and leadership capabilities.
Additionally, providing opportunities
for continuous learning and
professional growth can empower
women to take on greater challenges
and responsibilities within their
organizations.
Supporting Work-Life Balance
Recognizing the unique challenges
in championing gender equality and
promoting a culture of inclusion. By
actively listening to women's
experiences, acknowledging their
contributions, and advocating for their
advancement, male allies can help
create a more supportive and inclusive
workplace environment. Additionally,
fostering collaboration among
employees of diverse backgrounds can
lead to greater innovation and
problem-solving, as different
perspectives and ideas are brought to
the table.
Celebrating Diversity and
Intersectionality
It's essential to recognize that women's
experiences are not monolithic and that
gender intersects with other aspects of
identity, such as race, ethnicity, sexual
orientation, and disability. Celebrating
diversity and embracing
intersectionality are key components of
building a truly inclusive workplace
culture. By acknowledging and valuing
the unique perspectives and
contributions of women from diverse
backgrounds, organizations can create
a sense of belonging for all employees
and foster a culture where everyone
can thrive.
Conclusion
In conclusion, empowering women in
the workplace is not only a moral
imperative but also a strategic
imperative for organizations seeking to
thrive in today's diverse and
competitive business environment. By
building a culture of inclusion,
promoting equal opportunities, creating
supportive work environments, and
investing in education and training,
organizations can unlock the full
potential of their female workforce and
drive sustainable success. Ultimately,
empowering women isn't just the right
thing to do—it's the smart thing to do.
faced by women in balancing their
professional and personal
responsibilities is crucial for fostering
empowerment in the workplace.
Implementing flexible work
arrangements, offering parental leave
policies, and providing support for
childcare and eldercare can help
alleviate some of the pressures faced
by women juggling multiple roles and
responsibilities.
Leveraging Mentorship and
Sponsorship
Mentorship and sponsorship programs
can be powerful tools for empowering
women in the workplace. Pairing
women with mentors who can provide
guidance, support, and career advice
can help them navigate the
complexities of the workplace and
overcome obstacles to advancement.
Similarly, sponsorship programs,
where senior leaders advocate for
women's advancement and create
opportunities for visibility and
recognition, can help accelerate
women's career progression.
Measuring Progress and Holding
Accountable
Finally, empowering women in the
workplace requires a commitment to
measuring progress and holding
organizations accountable for their
diversity and inclusion efforts.
Establishing key performance
indicators (KPIs) related to gender
diversity, conducting regular audits of
policies and practices, and soliciting
feedback from employees can help
organizations track their progress and
identify areas for improvement.
Fostering Collaboration and Allyship
Empowering women in the workplace
requires collective effort and
collaboration from all employees,
regardless of gender. Men, in
particular, play a crucial role as allies
16 | March 2024
23. Most Influen al Women Leaders Shaping India's Future
www.theknowledgereview.in | 21
24. t IMMUNO LIFE, we begin a
Ajourney to make India
healthier, where stronger
immunity enriches lives and longevity
becomes a shared wealth." Our
founder, a leading entrepreneur and
social worker, Punam Gupta, envisions
a healthier India with the mantra 'Fit
India & Happy Farmer.' Let's dive
deeper to know more about her venture
and her mission.
Having approximately twenty-five
years of experience as a food
nutritionist and a top FOSTAC trainer,
Punam Gupta was very concerned
about the poor health and diet routine
of Indian citizens. During the COVID-
19 era, the consequences were
extreme, where respiratory tract
infections, colds, asthma, and viral
infections were common. The director
of IMMUNO LIFE, a well-known
humanitarian-Punam Gupta, was
hearted and deeply touched seeing the
health anxiety.
However, the idea of IMMUNO was
established before, and several
products were tested earlier, but the
official launch of the venture was held
on 22 May 2020. Punam Gupta was
committed to reformation, where every
citizen of our country would have good
immunity and power to fight against
infectious viruses and diseases, and the
upcoming generations in India would
prioritize maintaining good health.
That's where IMMUNO comes in,
making revolutionary changes with its
product launches, such as several
Ayurvedic, beauty, vet, and pet food
supplements.
The Alarming Covid Era and Social
Worker Punam Gupta's Stand
We shall never forget the terrible
effects of the COVID-19 pandemic
when everyone felt forlorn. However,
the social worker Punam Gupta "left
no stone unturned" even during the
worst. Supporting the "IMMUNO
LIFE," several revolutionary products
were crafted to assist individuals in
fending off viral effects and infections
and bolstering their immune systems.
Tulsi Nasya Inhaler was one of the
groundbreaking respiratory viral
detoxifiers that helped thousands of
individuals fight viral, fungal, and
bacterial respiratory infections.
The inhaler was uniquely made with
loaded features compared to other
inhalers or breath-refreshing products.
The best thing is that there are no
adverse effects, and the product is
simple to bring wherever you go. The
Tulsi Nasya Inhaler became highly
popular during the COVID-19 era. It is
an Ayurvedic product with natural
ingredients that help reduce respiratory
tract infections and protect the nose
and lungs, preventing cough and side
effects of chemical inhalers that cause
no eye irritation.
To successfully surpass the pandemic,
Punam Gupta led several events and
steps to ensure the safety of citizens.
Following one of her events, she
donated 20 PPE kits, 3000 face masks,
and 100 Immuno Tulsi Nasya Inhalers
to the frontline warriors (whose lives
were at risk) at the local police station
to ensure their safety. The event was
held under the supervision of Social
Worker Punam Gupta, who distributed
the essentials to Sirmaur Police (SP).
FSSAI awarded her the 2nd Best
FoSTaC Trainer for her recognizable
social support.
To learn more, visit www.twcfngo.org.
and www.twcfngo.org.
“
22 | March 2024
27. The
Importance
of Intersectionality in
,
Leadership
multifaceted and shaped by various
factors such as race, ethnicity, gender,
sexual orientation, socio-economic
status, and more. These intersecting
identities influence individuals'
experiences and shape their
perspectives on leadership and society.
Failure to acknowledge
intersectionality can result in the
marginalization of certain groups
within the broader women's movement
and hinder efforts to achieve true
gender equality.
Amplifying Marginalized Voices
Historically, mainstream feminist
movements have centered on the
experiences and perspectives of white,
middle-class women, inadvertently
marginalizing the voices of women of
n recent years, there has been a
Igrowing recognition of the
importance of diversity in
leadership. However, while diversity
initiatives have made strides, they
often fail to address the complex and
intersecting identities of individuals.
This is where the concept of
intersectionality comes into play.
Intersectionality acknowledges that
individuals experience multiple forms
of oppression or discrimination
simultaneously and emphasizes the
need to consider these intersecting
identities when championing diversity,
particularly in women's leadership.
Understanding Intersectionality
At its core, intersectionality recognizes
that individuals' identities are
www.theknowledgereview.in | 25
28. color, LGBTQ+ individuals, women
with disabilities, and others.
Embracing intersectionality means
actively listening to and amplifying the
voices of marginalized women,
ensuring that their experiences are not
only heard but also valued and
empowered. This inclusivity is
essential for building a more diverse
and representative leadership
landscape.
Recognizing Unique Perspectives
One of the strengths of
intersectionality is its ability to
highlight the unique perspectives and
strengths that individuals from
different backgrounds bring to
leadership roles. For example, a
woman of color may offer insights into
navigating systemic racism and
cultural dynamics that her white
counterparts may overlook. Similarly, a
queer woman may bring fresh
perspectives on inclusivity and
belonging within organizational
settings. By recognizing and
leveraging these diverse perspectives,
organizations can foster more
innovative problem-solving and
decision-making processes, ultimately
leading to better outcomes.
Addressing Systemic Inequalities:
Intersectionality compels us to address
the systemic inequalities that
perpetuate discrimination and hinder
women's advancement in leadership
roles. Women of color, for instance,
face compounded barriers due to both
racial and gender biases, resulting in
disproportionately lower representation
in leadership positions. To address
these inequities, organizations must
implement targeted recruitment and
retention strategies, provide
mentorship programs tailored to
marginalized groups, and enact policies
that promote pay equity and inclusive
workplace cultures.
In contemporary discourse, the concept
of intersectionality has emerged as a
crucial framework for understanding
the complexities of identity and
oppression. When applied to women's
leadership, intersectionality
underscores the importance of
recognizing the diverse experiences
and identities that shape individuals'
lived realities. Women, encompassing a
multitude of races, ethnicities, sexual
orientations, socio-economic
backgrounds, abilities, and more, do
not navigate the world through a
singular lens. Failure to acknowledge
this intersectionality risks
marginalizing certain groups within the
broader movement for gender equality.
By championing intersectionality in
women's leadership, organizations can
amplify the voices of marginalized
individuals and foster more inclusive
environments. This approach
challenges traditional notions of
leadership effectiveness and
encourages the adoption of
collaborative and empathetic
leadership models. Moreover,
embracing intersectionality isn't just a
moral imperative; it's a strategic
necessity for organizations seeking to
thrive in an increasingly diverse and
interconnected world.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the importance of
intersectionality in women's leadership
cannot be overstated. By recognizing
and valuing the intersecting identities
and experiences of women,
organizations can build more inclusive,
equitable, and effective leadership
structures. Embracing intersectionality
is not just a moral imperative; it is
essential for driving meaningful and
lasting change in our workplaces and
societies.
Embracing Relational Leadership
Models
Traditional notions of leadership often
emphasize hierarchical structures
where power is concentrated at the top.
However, intersectional leaders
prioritize relational and collaborative
leadership models, emphasizing
inclusivity, empathy, and collective
decision-making. This shift not only
fosters a sense of belonging and
empowerment among team members
but also enables organizations to adapt
more effectively to diverse and rapidly
changing environments.
Guiding Advocacy Efforts
Intersectionality serves as a guiding
framework for advancing social justice
agendas that prioritize the needs of all
women, particularly those at the
margins. For example, policies aimed
at combating gender-based violence
must recognize the intersecting forms
of violence experienced by
marginalized women, including
indigenous women, immigrant women,
and transgender women. By centering
the experiences of the most
marginalized, intersectional advocacy
efforts can create more inclusive and
effective solutions.
Driving Structural Changes
Surface-level diversity initiatives are
not enough to address the root causes
of inequality. True diversity and
inclusion require deeper structural
changes, including dismantling
discriminatory hiring practices,
addressing barriers to education and
healthcare access, and redistributing
resources and opportunities more
equitably. By taking a holistic
approach that addresses these
intersecting factors comprehensively,
organizations can create environments
where all women have the opportunity
to thrive in leadership roles.
26 | March 2024
29.
30. Education is the key to social liberation. Educational
leaders improve the quality of education with
innovation, strategic planning, and establishing an
inclusive environment to nurture students holistically. It's
their responsibility to foster tangible developments in
students.
Ms Aruna Singh, President of Samskar-The Life School,
is an inspiring personality reshaping the Indian educational
sector. Her journey is a tale of passion, serendipity, and
utter dedication that began in 1989.
Her son's regular admissions visit to the school resulted in a
lifetime commitment to forming impressionable minds. Her
potential as a teacher was acknowledged by the principal of
the school, who extended the offer of employment without
any formalities. It was a spontaneous moment. Swiftly
recording her qualifications on a sheet of blank paper, she
set out on a path that would shape the ensuing thirty years
and beyond.
The early years were a whirlwind of learning and discovery.
Ms Singh explored the complexities of education as a
primary teacher and saw the profound influence it could
have on developing minds. Her canvas was the classroom;
every lesson offered a chance to pique students' interest and
cultivate a love of learning.
Pillar of Success
From primary to secondary school and then senior
secondary roles, Ms Singh advanced steadily, welcoming
the opportunities and difficulties that came with each step.
The winds of change started to blow in the mid-2000s, and
the field of administration beckoned.
She began her journey into administration in 2006,
accepting duties that extended beyond the classroom. The
move from educator to administrator was a natural
progression driven by a desire to contribute to the broader
facets of educational leadership.
Establishing a Holis c
Educa onal Set-up in India
Most Influen al Women Leaders Shaping India's Future
Ms Aruna Singh,
President
Samskar-The Life School
28 | March 2024
31. She was allowed to take on the role of full-fledged principal
in 2009, allowing her to make revolutionary changes and
direct the path of educational excellence. With a strong
sense of responsibility and a dedication to giving students
an experience that would prepare them for life after school,
she was a perfect fit for the position.
As the President of Education Excellence, Ms Singh is
currently at the apex of her academic career. With this role,
a new chapter has begun, one in which the decades' worth
of cumulative wisdom will be applied to the overall goal of
educational excellence.
She greatly appreciates the mentors, teachers, parents, and
coworkers who have helped her grow. After making an
unintentional foray into the field of education, she now
embarks on a purposeful journey, motivated daily by the
conviction that teaching is a lifetime commitment that will
shape the next generation.
The Sanskrit term
SAMSKAR reflects not just the
culture but also a deep and
pure reason to create a good
human being, a good family,
a good society, a good
na on, and thus an excellent
world to live in.
‘
‘ ‘‘
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32. Mission and Vision
Describing the meaning of Samskar, Ms Singh says, "The
Sanskrit term Samskar reflects not just the culture but also
a deep and pure reason to create a good human being, a
good family, a good society, a good nation, and thus an
excellent world to live in." Apart from education, children
also need to be taught about ethnicity and ethics. The
organization articulates its vision and mission statements by
these values.
The goal of Samskar-The Life School is to become a
preeminent hub of academic excellence known for its
inventiveness, inclusivity, and dedication to the all-around
growth of each student.
Along with Mr. Vamsi Mohan and Madhumathi Alluri the
founders of Samskar School, Ms Singh envisions a school
where students excel academically and have the values,
resilience, and skills necessary to thrive in a constantly
changing world. They hope to become the benchmark for
transformative education that ignites a passion for learning
that lasts a lifetime through cooperative partnerships and a
commitment to constant improvement.
Like German cars, Italian suits, Swiss watches, and Belgian
chocolates, Samskar is trusted and recognized worldwide
for offering the best education possible with equal emphasis
on ethics and ethnicity. The institute's mission is to uplift
and enable a community of learners to attain excellence in
learning, character development, and overall health. The
institute's staff is dedicated to creating a vibrant learning
environment that stimulates creativity, critical thinking, and
curiosity while preparing students to be kind and
responsible global citizens.
Facing the Challenges with Efficacy
Because of the changing needs of students and the dynamic
nature of the education system, Ms Singh has had to deal
with several challenges in her many roles. Among the
difficulties she faces are:
Ÿ Since every student learns differently, it cannot be easy
to accommodate their differences and still ensure
everyone learns effectively.
Ÿ To keep the classroom atmosphere constructive and
well-organized, teachers must effectively manage
student behavior, engagement, and interactions. These
days, the most essential qualities for parents, teachers,
and students are perseverance and patience.
Ÿ It can be challenging for educators to stay updated with
technological developments and successfully
incorporate technology into their lesson plans, mainly if
unfamiliar with the newest resources. This is especially
clear when looking at the COVID-19 pandemic era.
Many people were forced to learn things that weren't
necessary beforehand.
Ÿ When a student's development is represented as a
triangle with the teacher at the third vertex, the parents
at the second, and the student at the first, if not
connected and aligned cannot form a triangle. It is not
easy to foster and preserve positive relationships with
parents, even though cooperation and communication
are crucial for a student's success.
Ÿ Constant professional development is necessary to stay
current with educational research, methodologies, and
best practices; however, time constraints can make this
difficult.
Ÿ The environment surrounding education is constantly
changing. Readjusting to new academic policies,
pedagogical approaches, and curriculum standards can
be challenging, so she had to stay current.
Despite these obstacles, Ms Singh finds great satisfaction in
all of her roles because she is aware of how important they
are in influencing the future and improving the lives of her
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33. students. She believes that overcoming these obstacles can
be facilitated by opportunities for professional
development, ongoing support, and a cooperative learning
environment in the classroom.
Valuable Advice for Young Learners
Ms Singh shares specific valuable advice for global students
as they navigate their educational journeys:
Ÿ She admires cultural diversity and asks her students to
embrace it. They should engage with students from
different backgrounds, participate in cultural events, and
celebrate the richness of diversity.
Ÿ The students should establish a support network by
connecting with fellow students, faculty, and support
services. A strong support network can make the
educational experience more enjoyable and help when
needed.
Ÿ If the students face challenges with coursework, they
shouldn't hesitate to seek academic support. As Ms
Singh says, "A simple three-letter word, ASK, is the
keyword you need to embrace."
Ÿ Efficient time management is critical to academic
success. Students should plan schedules, set priorities,
and allocate time for studying, relaxation, and social
activities.
Ÿ They should take advantage of extracurricular
opportunities, internships, and community engagement.
These experiences enhance their resume and contribute
to personal and professional growth.
Ÿ Being adaptable is a valuable skill, especially in a global
setting. Students should embrace change, be open to
new ideas, and learn from different perspectives.
Ÿ Students should pay attention to their communication
skills as it enhances their personalities and makes them
globally accepted.
Ÿ Pay attention to their physical and mental well-being.
Establish healthy routines, get enough rest, and seek
support if they feel overwhelmed.
Ÿ They should also start thinking about their career early
on. Seek internships, attend career fairs, and explore
opportunities that align with their interests and
aspirations.
Ÿ New professions and new ways to make their mark are
coming yearly.
Students should celebrate achievements and learn from
challenges. They should remember that being a global
student is not just about academics; it's a holistic journey
that shapes them as individuals.
Strategies for Future
According to Ms Singh, there are a lot of exciting
opportunities for professional development, creativity, and
ongoing contributions to the field of education for educators
in the future. Samskar - The Life School believes in
teaching deep and pure values to transform the school into
an organization that offers education, ethics, and ethnicity.
Plans for this venture's future include:
Ÿ To build multiple schools in different cities in the next
decade.
Ÿ To provide all the facilities for the students to learn,
innovate, and achieve, such as hostels, labs, and
technical innovations, as well as collaborations and
exchange programs.
Ÿ To build a franchise model for the Samskar Pre-Primary
schools nationwide.
Ÿ Community engagement programs that connect all
school branches. This can include joint events,
collaborative projects, and initiatives that foster a sense
of unity among students and parents.
Ÿ Strategic partnerships with education authorities to gain
recognition and support for the school's nationwide
presence. Engage in or initiate global education
initiatives, fostering cross-cultural exchanges,
collaborations, and partnerships to provide students with
a more comprehensive and interconnected learning
experience.
Ÿ Develop scalable systems that can be replicated in new
schools. This includes standardized curriculum,
administrative procedures, and teacher training
programs.
Ÿ Establish educational initiatives, such as after-school
programs, workshops, or community outreach projects,
to address specific needs within the community and
contribute to academic enrichment.
Ÿ Advocate for educational equity and inclusivity,
ensuring that all students, regardless of background or
circumstances, have access to quality education and
opportunities for success.
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