Sakshi Gupta, Founder & Creative Director of Label Raasa on How to Inspire Inclusion in the Indian Startup Ecosystem
In fostering inclusion for women entrepreneurs in the Indian startup landscape, a holistic approach involving the government, business bodies, VC firms, and individual entrepreneurs is paramount. The journey towards inclusivity should begin with a collective mindset shift. Women entrepreneurs should break free from societal norms, recognizing the importance of skills like leadership, financial literacy, adaptability, networking, problem-solving, time management, marketing, emotional intelligence, and resilience.
To instigate change, individuals must embody the change themselves. Leo Tolstoy's wisdom, "Everyone thinks of changing the world, but no one thinks of changing himself," resonates here. Women should discard self-imposed differentiations from their male counterparts, building businesses with fresh perspectives and a positive attitude. Emotional strength and resilience are crucial, given the challenges women may face in a predominantly male society.
While acknowledging the challenges, focusing on solutions and fostering a supportive community is vital. There are a lot of Women-focused VC funds that address funding gaps. Increased awareness and grassroots initiatives will further empower women, enabling them to pursue their entrepreneurial ambitions with passion and determination. This collective effort, driven by individual commitment and a supportive ecosystem, can lead to a more inclusive and thriving startup landscape for women in India.
Sakshi’s message to other women-folk across India on the occasion of International Women’s Day-
“To my fellow businesswomen on this day: 'A new world is only a new mind.' Channel your energy into creating innovative solutions, trusting your instincts, growing professionally, empowering your peers, and supporting each other in the competitive yet collaborative world of business. Embrace the precious career you're blessed with, as now is the perfect time to turn your entrepreneurial dreams into reality and step boldly out of your professional comfort zone.”
She added, “Navigating the business landscape is akin to a thrilling roller coaster, full of challenges that not only provide excitement but also serve as opportunities to build confidence and resilience. As symbols of strength, both Mother India and Mother Earth remind us that as women, we possess incredible potential and tenacity. To all the businesswomen out there, hang in there, stay determined, and rest assured that the rewards of your hard work and dedication will undoubtedly come. Let's continue to inspire and uplift each other, creating a new era of success and leadership in the business world.”
