The Need for Female Role Models in India’s Business Landscape

In the dynamic sphere of India’s business landscape, the need for female role models has emerged as a key catalyst for driving transformative change. According to Grant Thornton’s International Business Report 2023, India has only 36% of women in senior management positions, especially in mid-market businesses. There is a significant need thus, to foster a gender diverse and inclusive corporate environment, especially with a focus on empowering women in leadership roles, who can then serve as examples for aspiring women professionals and shape a more equitable business landscape.

Female role models play a pivotal role in breaking down barriers and challenging traditional norms that have long hindered the progress of women in the corporate world. Further, they serve as beacons of inspiration, proving that gender should never be a barrier to success. In a country as diverse and vibrant as India, where cultural expectations have historically influenced gender roles, having visible examples of successful women in leadership can help young girls and women envision themselves in similar positions, thus encouraging them to pursue their ambitions fearlessly. The ripple effect of such representation extends beyond individual careers, contributing to a broader cultural shift in attitudes towards gender equity and gender roles. There is a need for a paradigm shift in the perception of leadership, so that organisations can recognize and leverage the untapped potential that women bring to the table. 

Additionally, there are many business benefits of having more women representation on the table. Organisations with a gender diverse leadership team tend to be more innovative, adaptable, empathetic and ultimately, successful. The need for female role models in India’s business landscape is not just about bridging a gender gap, but about unleashing the full potential of the nation’s workforce.  The corporate world actively needs to implement initiatives that foster a culture of inclusivity, recognizing the multifaceted contributions that women can bring to businesses. By championing diversity and inclusivity and celebrating the achievements of women in leadership, one can envision a future where the business landscape thrives on the collective strength and talent of both genders, paving the way for exceptional growth.