Leadership qualities are innate to women

Very early in my career, I was asked to step into a business role, something I thought I wasn’t ready for. I found myself outside of familiar boundaries and at first, it was exciting, but scary. It shattered a long-held belief – that growth had to follow a straight, predictable path. That experience was a crash course on adaptability, and the art of leading through uncertainty. And if there’s one learning I could pass to the next generation, it’s this: embrace the detours and build resiliency, because some of the most profound growth happens when we steer off from our comfort zone.

PIVOTAL MOMENT | When I began working, I’d constantly try to prove myself and fit into the predefined mould. It felt like I was relentlessly chasing validation, trying to shrink myself to meet expectations. Then came a pivotal moment that changed the course of how I showed up at work. I was asked to step down from a project because I asked too many questions, questions that challenged the status quo! At first it stung, but it steeled my resolve to keep being curious and ask questions. I didn’t stop asking questions, instead I adapted my approach, balancing curiosity with collaboration. It taught me that staying true to yourself doesn’t mean you can’t grow – it just means growing on your own terms.

WHAT SETS GREAT WOMEN LEADERS APART TODAY ? Women bring some amazing strengths to the table – going often beyond the obvious. Some of these leadership strengths include resiliency, and more importantly accountability and the ability to see the big picture. While these qualities are likely to be found across all forms of leadership, these qualities in women leaders, I believe, aren’t learnt. They’re innate, both in seasoned and early-career women. In a rapidly evolving world, these traits make women not just effective, but transformational leaders, paving the way for others to follow.

OVERCOMING BARRIERS TO LEADERSHIP | It took me time to realise that self-worth and belongingness come from within, not from others. To those starting new and fresh, know your identity and strengths. Self-awareness is the foundation of success. Be intentional, seek feedback, and lead with confidence.

BALANCING PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL GROWTH | This is an endless journey. Perfect equilibrium may not always be possible. Some roles make you stretch more than others. Being mentally prepared is the key. Focus on giving your best each day, celebrate your small wins, and invest in skills that will nurture your success. It’s not about perfection. It’s all about progression and perseverance.

STARTING OUT IN TECH AND MALEDOMINATED INDUSTRIES | Navigating a professional career for women in industries such as tech can feel demanding, owing to several systemic, cultural and social factors. But instead of backing out, we need to double down. Young women and girls who want to chart their individual growth should remember that we belong in the room and our contributions matter. When we lean into our discomfort, most profound things come alive – like our strengths. Speak up, take the risks and advocate for yourself. And last but not the least, seek mentors and build a support network that will stand by you and offer guidance when challenges arise.



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