Sanjam Sahi Gupta is a prominent advocate for gender diversity in the maritime sector. As the founder of WISTA India, she has facilitated a platform for women in the maritime sector. Her expertise as a gender specialist recognized by the UN ESCAP and International Maritime Organization drives inclusive change in the industry.
In a recent conversation with the Women Entrepreneurs Review Magazine, Sanjam shares her views about the significance of inclusivity and diversity in the entrepreneurial landscape. She emphasizes the importance of designing initiatives and programs that foster women's participation in entrepreneurship, encouraging them to leverage their unique perspectives and strengths for driving innovation.
Entrepreneurship is the engine of innovation and growth for any nation. In your opinion why is it critical for the entrepreneurial landscape to be inclusive and diverse?
Entrepreneurship thrives on diversity and inclusivity as it brings a variety of perspectives, experiences, and ideas to the table. There is no longer just a moral case for diversity but studies have shown a business case for diversity. An inclusive entrepreneurial landscape allows for creativity, innovation, and problem-solving that cater to a wider range of needs and market segments, driving sustainable growth and fostering a competitive environment. A study that we did in 2020 on the business case for diversity in maritime proves the above.
What strategies can be implemented to foster a workplace culture that empowers and champions women entrepreneurs, despite cultural and societal challenges?
Strategies include several activities such as implementing policies that promote gender equality, offering mentorship and networking opportunities, providing access to resources and funding tailored to women's needs, and actively challenging biases and stereotypes. The onus lies on leaders to create a supportive and respectful environment where women feel valued, respected, and encouraged to take risks and most of all, pursue their entrepreneurial goals.
How must initiatives and programs be designed to promote women in entrepreneurship? How can initiatives push women to leverage their unique perspectives and strengths to drive innovation?
In my opinion, initiatives should focus on providing education, training, and mentorship tailor made to women's needs. Further fostering a supportive community, highlighting successful female role models, and showcasing the value of diversity in driving innovation. By emphasizing the strengths and perspectives unique to women, initiatives can empower them to leverage their creativity, adaptability, and problem-solving skills to drive innovation and success.
Women face unique challenges throughout their entrepreneurial journey. What role can networking play in strengthening female entrepreneurs? What are some sound strategies for women to network better?
Networking is key and plays a crucial role in strengthening female entrepreneurs. It provides access to support, resources, mentorship, and opportunities for collaboration and growth. Women can enhance their networking efforts by actively participating in industry events, joining women-focused entrepreneur groups, seeking mentorship from successful entrepreneurs, and leveraging digital platforms and social media to expand their professional network. In my personal experience, I have found having a mentor to be a boon and networking to be a wonderful tool.
In what ways can next-gen technologies be leveraged to support and promote women in entrepreneurship? Can you shed light on some key tech trends that are helping women entrepreneurs succeed?
Next-gen technology can be a powerful tool for supporting and promoting women in entrepreneurship by providing access to global markets, streamlining operations, optimizing business processes, and fostering innovation. Key tech trends helping women entrepreneurs succeed include e-commerce platforms, digital marketing tools, data analytics for decision-making, AI-driven business solutions, and virtual collaboration platforms that enable remote work and networking opportunities.
How can women entrepreneurs increase visibility and access key opportunities such as funding?
Women entrepreneurs can increase visibility and access key opportunities such as funding by building a strong personal brand. Further they can actively promoting their achievements and expertise through social media and industry events, seeking out investor networks that support women-led businesses, craft a compelling business pitch, and actively engage with potential investors. They can take the assistance of mentors, and partners to build relationships and demonstrate the viability of their business ideas.
Women are increasingly making strides in entrepreneurship and innovation, breaking barriers and reshaping industries with their unique perspectives and ideas. How do you foresee the future of women in entrepreneurship and innovation, considering their current advancements and contributions?
The future of women in entrepreneurship and innovation looks promising, with women increasingly breaking barriers, driving change, and reshaping industries with their unique perspectives and ideas. I can take the example of Liji Nowal an entrepreneur in maritime tech as a true role model whose path shows that women have a bright future, as more women receive support, access to resources, and recognition for their contributions, we can expect to see a surge in female-led businesses, groundbreaking innovations, and greater gender equality in the entrepreneurial ecosystem, fueling economic growth and societal progress.
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