Chetna Israni, Co-founder and Director, MorningStar Brandcom
Entrepreneurship is a dream for many, but few possess the necessary skills and gumption to make it a reality. What inspired you to pursue your entrepreneurial dream?
The representation of women in entrepreneurship remains a challenge, not due to a lack of capability but because of deeply ingrained structural and societal norms. A key barrier is the limited access women have to networks, funding, and mentorship. Despite progress, there remains a bias in investor confidence when evaluating women-led businesses.
Organizations must adopt proactive policies to support women founders, such as structured mentorship and greater representation in leadership roles.
Additionally, societal expectations and the dual burden of managing professional ambitions alongside familial responsibilities often weigh disproportionately on women. Addressing this requires systemic change—policies fostering equal access to opportunities, institutional encouragement for women-led ventures, and workplace cultures that normalize and actively support diversity at the leadership level. Change must come from both within the ecosystem and from the broader societal framework.
The Indian startup ecosystem is thriving, but perfection is still a work in progress. What is one change you would suggest in the immediate future?
Entrepreneurship is not merely about an idea; it's about execution, resilience, and a willingness to learn from failure. Aspiring entrepreneurs must first identify a problem they are passionate about solving and then focus on building a strong foundation—this includes a robust business plan, a deep understanding of their market, and the flexibility to pivot when needed. It is equally crucial to invest in personal growth. Emotional intelligence, leadership skills, and the ability to build and nurture a team are as important as technical expertise. Finally, never underestimate the value of mentorship. Learn from those who have navigated the path before you, as their experiences can offer invaluable guidance in shaping your journey.
