Women entrepreneurs in India have become crucial change agents of growth and development. Bringing their female perspectives, these women entrepreneurs we spoke to in 2023 have built ventures that aim to empower the women of India.
Throughout the year 2023, a narrative of empowerment unfolds in the dynamic terrain of Women Entrepreneur India, weaving together the lives of five visionary entrepreneurs dedicated to elevating and encouraging their fellow women. Each tale exemplifies perseverance and determination, from grassroots organizations promoting gender parity to new techniques in socially sustainable business.
In the midst of the year's challenges, these stories cast a focus on the various paths women entrepreneurs have chosen to create a lasting impact. The stories investigate the revolutionary force of technology in transforming businesses, the value of community and co-learning in financial pursuits, and the significant impact of practical education in empowering women across varied sectors.
As we reflect on these entrepreneurs' aggregate accomplishments, their tales become a testimony to the possibility for positive change. These stories motivate us to imagine a future in which women's empowerment stays at the forefront of societal progress in a year distinguished by ingenuity and drive.
Let’s explore them once again!
Nishtha Yogesh’s Hunar Online: Upskilling Platform Empowers Common Indian Women
Nishtha Yogesh, Founder and CEO of Hunar Online Courses, discussed her experience and thoughts with Rachita Sharma, Managing Editor of Women Entrepreneur India, during an Interview. Nishtha's efforts to revolutionize women's empowerment in India via practical education were emphasized in the article. Rachita had an in-depth talk with Nishtha about the inspiration for starting Hunar, its impact on women, and future goals. Under Rachita's editorial direction, the journal gave a forum to highlight the substantial achievements of women entrepreneurs like Nishtha, stressing their responsibilities in creating India's commercial scene.
Nishtha Yogesh states, “Hunar's approach is simple yet powerful: it aims to bridge the gap for educated homemakers, offering not just knowledge but also practical skills. With government-certified courses, personalized support, and inspiring success stories, Hunar is shaping a future where every Indian woman thrives in her chosen field.”
Anooshka Bathwal’s Dhanvesttor: A Woman Focused Wealth Management Platform
Anooshka Bathwal, CEO of Dhanvesttor, presented her ambition to empower women in finance. Dhanvesttor, a wealth management platform "for and by women," prioritized co-learning and community building. Anooshka emphasized problems in women's financial involvement and advocated for mentality adjustments. Dhanvesttor's goal was to instill confidence and interest in women's financial talks, in addition to financial gains. Anooshka's mission included expanding operations across India to provide universal financial empowerment.
“Our mission is not just about making money; it's about making women feel strong and confident in the world of finance” says Anooshka.
Dr Aparajita Gogoi: Championing Gender Equity Causes at the Grassroots Level
Dr. Aparajita Gogoi, Executive Director of C3 and National Coordinator of WRAI, addressed successes and difficulties in empowering Indian women in a conversation with Women Entrepreneur India. She underlined the importance of continuing to invest in education, increasing female labor force participation, and eliminating patriarchal norms. Dr. Aparajita spoke about healthcare problems, community-driven initiatives at C3, and success stories. The development sector's challenges were highlighted, and she appealed for joint efforts following COVID-19 to secure a brighter future for Indian women.
Dr. Aparajita says, “C3 is also working with women representatives of Panchayats in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh to not just take up issues around women’s health in their communities, but also to mobilize their fellow community members to raise awareness on the evils of child marriage, on the need for family planning and maternal health, and on domestic violence.”
Laurien Meuter's Tiny Miracles: Commercially Successful Social Impact Organization
Laurien Meuter and her humanitarian firm, Tiny Miracles, were featured in Women Entrepreneur India in 2023. Laurien's revelation in Bombay inspired the development of the 'Get Out' and 'Stay Out' programs, which address poverty holistically. Tiny Miracles, which is financially sustainable and does not rely only on donations, cooperated with worldwide businesses, employing beneficiaries to create high-quality items. Laurien's goal is to demonstrate achievement, not to grow into a major corporation, but to inspire others. Tiny Miracles, which currently serves eight communities, hopes to expand beyond Maharashtra.
Laurien Meuter expresses during the interview with our Managing Editor, Rachita Sharma, “We make sure that women sit in groups and speak to each other about their problems which helps them understand each other better. We are here to lead by example and to prove that it is possible to build a commercially viable social enterprise. And not only for money, but also for purpose”
Dr. Drishti Anand’s LetsDressUp: Fixing Women's Fashion Woes through Technology
LetsDressUp (LDU), a fashion-tech business formed by Dr. Drishti Anand and Aditya Balani, became a game changer in the Indian fashion industry in 2023. LDU tackled sizing difficulties by developing the first Indian size chart, with the goal of making the $100 billion sector more sustainable and customer-centric. Titan Capital and famous angels supported the firm, which has grown to an annually revenue of INR 100 crore. Dr. Drishti, a former doctor, presented her story and urged women to make risky decisions. The success of LDU highlighted the value of an innovative strategy and a supportive relationship among co-founders.
Dr. Drishti Anand elaborates, “We are building not just for the top 1% audience in the Tier 1 cities of India but for every woman in any nook and corner of the country. Hence, we are empowering every Indian woman to feel comfortable and confident in her style in her size.”
