Women Leaders in Tech 2025

www.womenworldindia.com W O R L D I N D I A February | 2025 WOMEN leaders leaders IN TECH 2025 2025 WOMEN IN TECH Beyond the Glass Ceiling Exploring the Challenges and Triumphs of Women in Leadership Roles Breaking Barriers The Emergence of Powerful Women Leaders Shaveta Kapoor, Global Applied Data Science Head of Media Products, Dunnhumby Shaveta Kapoor One of the Most Inspiring Data Science Leaders on the Global Tech Horizon

WOMEN leaders leaders IN TECH 2025 2025 WOMEN IN TECH

B y 2025, technology leadership has been passed through a woman-made filter. Today, such presence is no longer an oddity; it has come to be regarded as a pillar of innovation, whereby women are driving progress and forging a more ethical path for digital development. The Women World India crowned ‘Women Leaders in Tech 2025’ are not merely participants; they are the builders of the future, breaking down barriers and fostering inclusive ecosystems. Collaboration-by-diversity is their signature. They will build diverse and inclusive teams because innovation thrives on the multiplicity of perspectives. They will ever build strong networks, forging partnerships across industries and sectors to drive collective progress. Inspired and motivated, it is essential in navigating the fast-evolving tech landscape. Most importantly, these women act as talents for the next generation of young women technologists through their examples. The legend of a lone genius will die here; the future shall appreciate the power of working together as leaders and the empowerment of mentoring. This shall pave the way into and up the ladder for women who will ensure that there is a continuous supply of diverse talent entering the pipeline. These women leaders distinguish themselves from the rest due to their multi-pronged mentality; they weave technical prowess into an unparalleled array of soft skills. Their expertise encompasses the gambit of emerging technologies, from AI to machine learning to quantum computing to blockchain. Their skill in deriving tangible steps from abstract ideas effectively sells whatever concept is being considered from technological feasibility to real- world applicability. Women Leaders in Tech 2025: Shaping the Digital Future The women leaders of tech in 2025 will be characterized by resilience, adaptability, and the unrelenting dedication to progress. They'll face hurdles smoothly and will trespass across them continuously, turning barriers into gateways. Crucially, these women champion ethical considerations in technology development. They are vigorous spokespersons for responsible artificial intelligence, data privacy, and digital equity to meaningfully help all humankind-not necessarily the rich and privileged-. They push their leadership with a commitment toward developing the new technologies to be inclusive and accessible, tearing the digital divide to empower marginalized communities. Their leadership will involve not only transforming the tech industry but also creating a more equitable and sustainable future for everyone. They are the builders of a digital world, making it creative and human-like, which shall leave a step toward future generations. Gaurav PR Wankhade

Contents 08. Cover P R O F I L E P R O F I L E Story 20 Saumya Singh Leading the Charge in Tech with Passion and Purpose A R T I C L E S Shaveta Kapoor One of the Most Inspiring Data Science Leaders on the Global Tech Horizon 16 24 Beyond the Glass Ceiling Exploring the Challenges and Triumphs of Women in Leadership Roles Breaking Barriers The Emergence of Powerful Women Leaders

www.x.com/womenworldindia www.facebook.com/womenworldindia WOMEN leaders leaders IN TECH 2025 2025 WOMEN WE ARE ALSO AVAILABLE ON WE ARE ALSO AVAILABLE ON Pooja M. Bansal Editor-in-Chief IN TECH CONTENT Managing Editor: Gaurav PR Wankhade Assisting Editor : Prajakta Zurale Email sales@ For Subscription www. DESIGN womenworldindia .com Featuring Company Description Visualizer: Sandeep Tikode Art & Design Director : Rahul Shinde Art & Design Editor : Sarita Bhagat Associate Designers : Nagaraj Patil & Satish Garde womenworldindia .com Bhavana M is a seasoned technology executive and entrepreneur withextensive experience in enterprise productivity and process management. Bhavana M, Founding Partner and CTO Gieom Copyright © 20 rights reserved. The content and images used in this magazine should not be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior permission from WomenWorld India Reprint rights remain solely with WomenWorld India. 25 WomenWorld India, All A rare blend of passion and adaptive intelligence, Sangeetha Bala is anentrepreneur who knows how to turn challenges into opportunities Thinkinfinity Technology Sangeetha Bala, Founder and CEO SALES Vice President : Swapnali Vasaikar Asst. Vice President : Tejaswini Whaval Asst. Manager : Nitin Patil Team Leader : Sapna Walunjkar Sr. BDE : Pooja Dalvi Saumya Singh, Software Engineer, Educator and Influencer . Saumya Singh is a Software Engineer at Red Hat, who loves learning newthings and helping tech beginners Red Hat February, 2025 Shaveta's journey at Dunnhumby began 15 years ago as a graduate analyst,where she grew into a remarkable data science leader, leading the MediaAnalytics hub of 140+ data scientists within dunnhumby. Shaveta Kapoor, Global Applied Data Science Head of Media Products Dunnhumby TECHNICAL Technical Head : Prachi Mokashi Technical Specialist : Rajeshwari Avhad Technical Consultant : Tanaji Fartade Suja Chandy, Chief Sustainability Officer (Global) and Managing Director (India) Suja Chandy is a Chief Sustainability Officer (Global) and ManagingDirector (India) at Zafin based in Vancouver, British Columbia. Zafin SME-SMO Research Analyst : Sagar Lahigade SEO Lead : Prashant Rathode

Shaveta Kapoor One of the Most Inspiring Data Science Leaders on the Global Tech Horizon Life is what you make it, always has been, always will be. Shaveta Kapoor, Global Applied Data Science Head of Media Products, Dunnhumby Cover Story

Women Leaders in Tech 2025 Inspiring Women Personali?es to Watch in 2025 W algorithms and artificial intelligence lies a deeply human story. At its heart, data science is fueled by curiosity — the drive to ask the right questions, solve meaningful problems, and ultimately make life better for people. This human element is what sets leaders like Shaveta Kapoor apart. Having witnessed the remarkable evolution of data science firsthand — from its roots in traditional analytics using SaaS and SQL to the rise of Python, PySpark, machine learning, and now AI — Shaveta embodies the adaptability and vision needed to navigate this ever-changing landscape. Vision Beyond the Immediate: Visualize a bigger picture and work toward a purpose greater than themselves. e live in an era where data shapes everything — from the way we shop and travel to the choices we make daily. Yet, beyond the buzz around Shaveta fosters the same mindset in her team, creating a culture where experimentation and growth are celebrated. "True progress happens when we're not afraid to try, fail, and try again," she says.Her ability to turn failures into stepping stones and inspire others to do the same makes Shaveta a leader who truly embodies relentless iteration on the path to mastery. For Shaveta, leadership is about visualizing a bigger picture and working toward a purpose greater than oneself. She believes in the power of setting a clear vision—not just for herself but for her entire team—to ensure they are aligned and driven in the same direction. Inspired by the Japanese philosophy of ikigai, which emphasizes finding one's purpose, Shaveta ensures her leadership approach is rooted in meaningful goals and shared purpose. Resilience in Adversity: Rising Stronger from Life's Challenges Greatness is often forged in the fire of adversity, and Shaveta Kapoor's journey is a testament to the power of resilience. She has faced her share of ups and downs, both personally and professionally, but what sets her apart is her unwavering belief that it's not about how you fall—it's about how you rise. In her view, leadership in technology isn't merely about achieving results; it's about empowering people and fostering a culture of innovation. "It's essential to create an environment where teams feel valued, heard, and motivated to push boundaries," she says. For Shaveta, leadership is personal—it's about connecting on a human level. Shaveta's journey in data science isn't just about crunching numbers or building predictive models; it's about sparking transformation, inspiring her team, and showing how technology can solve challenges, ignite change, and create stronger communities. She reminds us that even in a world increasingly powered by AI, it's the passion, purpose, and perseverance of people that make all the difference. Known for her ability to think big while managing intricate details, Shaveta exemplifies strategic leadership. Over time she has led multiple transformation visionary projects with the recent one being the Media Analytics transformation journey over the last 3 years. She led a comprehensive transformation involving automation and process reengineering. Her initiatives delivered a 20% productivity boost and reduced costs by 30% in just two years. As the Global Head of Media Analytics at Dunnhumby, Shaveta is a seasoned leader who has spent over 15 years at the forefront of data science and AI. With a Master's in Business Administration and a wealth of expertise in customer insights, retail media, and automation, she has consistently driven transformation and measurable business impact across global clients. Her passion lies in solving complex challenges at the intersection of data, technology, and people, leveraging a growth mindset and multidisciplinary teams. A Journey of Rapid Growth Reflecting on her journey, Shaveta's academic years were defined by a hunger for knowledge and a unique ability to make the complex simple. From excelling in her studies to embarking on her early career in data science, she carried a deep passion for uncovering insights hidden in layers of complexity. Sharing her perspective on those formative years, she says, "I've always believed that every problem has a solution—you just need the right lens to find it.” For Shaveta, these achievements are not just milestones—they're lessons in collaboration. "Transformations are never about one person or one team. They're about building a collective vision and ensuring everyone feels like a part of the solution," she shares. Shaveta's leadership is a testament to how data science, when combined with a human touch, can deliver meaningful change and unlock new possibilities in an ever-evolving world. Relentless Iteration To Mastery: Greatness is a process of constant refinement from failure to discovery. For Shaveta , greatness isn't about getting it perfect the first time—it's about embracing the journey of constant learning and refinement. She believes that every setback is an opportunity to discover something new and better. Shaveta's journey with dunnhumby began in 2009 as a graduate analyst, entering the world of data science when it was still in its infancy, continuously evolving on a global scale. Over the years, she has worked with a diverse array of clients worldwide, building expertise and delivering impactful results. Her rapid growth within the organization has made her one of its most inspiring leaders, motivating countless colleagues along the way. "Failure isn't the end of the road," Shaveta shares. "It's part of the process that leads to breakthroughs. Mastery comes from testing, learning, and evolving.” The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away. Even after more than 15 years in the ever-changing field of data science and AI, Shaveta's enthusiasm remains undiminished. The constant evolution and emergence of new ideas and technologies fuel her passion. Her commitment to lifelong learning and staying ahead of the curve sets her apart as a perpetual learner and a true industry influencer. This belief drives her work and leadership as well as her personal life. Whether transforming inefficiencies into opportunities or leading groundbreaking innovations, Shaveta approaches every challenge with resilience and curiosity.

One of the most defining moments in her life came when she faced a life-threatening health condition. The experience was a turning point that reshaped her perspective on life, work, and what truly matters. "When you face something that shakes your core, you emerge with a clarity you didn't know you had," she reflects. "It made me stronger, more focused, and deeply grateful for the opportunities to grow and make an impact.” saying no to what doesn't serve you, and speaking your truth unapologetically.” traditional analytics platforms to cutting-edge technologies like Python, PySpark, machine learning, and artificial intelligence, continuously evolving her skill set to stay relevant. Her guiding principle is rooted in a quote by Indra Nooyi: "The best way to get a seat at the table is to pull up one. Don't wait for an invitation—it may never come." Shaveta firmly believes in seeking opportunities and sharing unique perspectives rather than waiting for permission or validation. Her proactive approach extends to her leadership style, where she leads by example, inspiring her team to adopt a similar mindset of curiosity and growth. Shaveta believes that the key to success in data science lies in staying curious, embracing new challenges, and maintaining a passion for learning — a philosophy that drives both her personal development and her professional impact. For Shaveta, resilience isn't just about enduring tough times; it's about embracing them as catalysts for transformation. "I believe these situations happen for a reason—to make us stronger and to help us discover the depths of our own power," she shares. "They are life's way of reminding us that we are capable of far more than we imagine.” For Shaveta, the key to breaking free from self-doubt lies in asking—without overthinking or apology. "Ask when you fear rejection, when you feel unprepared, or even when you think you don't deserve it. Ask anyway. The act of asking isn't just about the outcome; it's about believing in yourself enough to take the leap," she says. Championing Diversity: Building Bridges and Breaking Barriers For Shaveta Kapoor, diversity and inclusion are not just values—they are a calling. Her passion for creating equitable opportunities has driven her to lead initiatives that Her journey has taught her to approach challenges with courage and grace. Whether it's navigating complex professional landscapes or overcoming deeply personal struggles, Shaveta rises with renewed determination and a broader perspective. By embodying this fearless approach, Shaveta inspires women to step into their power, embrace their worth, and take bold steps toward their own version of greatness. Staying Connected and Evolving: Shaveta's Commitment to Lifelong Learning This resilience not only defines her character but also inspires those around her. Her story serves as a reminder that setbacks, no matter how daunting, are stepping stones to greater strength. "Adversity doesn't just test you—it transforms you. And when you rise from it, you carry a power that's truly unshakable," she says with conviction. Shaveta exemplifies the essence of continuous growth in the rapidly evolving field of data science. Her ability to stay connected to industry trends and client needs has been pivotal in keeping her at the forefront of innovation. By actively engaging with advancements in technology and understanding the shifting dynamics of the industry, Shaveta ensures that she remains well-equipped to tackle emerging challenges. Shaveta's journey is proof that resilience is a choice, and every rise from a fall brings with it a deeper sense of purpose, strength, and the ability to inspire others to do the same. Daring to Own Your Worth: Redefining Confidence and Legacy Shaveta is deeply committed to self-learning, regularly upskilling herself to master the latest tools, methodologies, and frameworks. She has embraced the transition from For Shaveta Kapoor, bold decisions aren't just about making progress—they're about shaping a legacy. She's no stranger to the self-doubt that often holds women back. "Many of us second-guess ourselves, focus on what we didn't do perfectly, or hesitate to ask for what we truly want," Shaveta shares. "I've been there, too. But we owe it to ourselves to stop selling ourselves short and dare to make the difference only we can make.” They are life’s way of reminding us that we are capable of far more than we imagine. Shaveta emphasizes the importance of courage in everyday actions. "It doesn't have to be grand gestures," she says. "Courage is about taking small but meaningful steps—making brave requests, embracing discomfort,

make a lasting impact on individuals and organizations alike. For Shaveta, diversity is far more than a metric—it's a strength. "The best teams are not those that agree on everything, but those that bring diverse perspectives to the table," she emphasizes. One of her most transformative contributions has been the "Back to Her Future" program in India, which she launched to help women return to the workforce after career breaks. Through this initiative, Shaveta has successfully reignited the careers and confidence of over 10 women, giving them a platform to thrive. "This program is deeply personal for me," she says. "Someone supported me when I needed it most, and this is my way of paying it forward.” Do great things, for you are destined for greatness. Her work in this space is fueled by her own experiences. Reflecting on moments of doubt in her career, she shares, "There were times when I questioned if I belonged. Those moments taught me the importance of building spaces where everyone feels they do.” Through her initiatives and her everyday leadership, Shaveta lives her belief that diversity and inclusion are essential not just for better workplaces, but for better communities. Her actions continue to inspire, proving that meaningful change starts with a relentless commitment to uplift others. Her commitment doesn't stop there. Shaveta also spearheaded the launch of the India Diversity Network, creating a community that fosters inclusivity and amplifies voices that often go unheard. She actively advocates for women who look up to her, drawing inspiration from her journey and leadership. They help me find clarity when life feels overwhelming," she explains. Shaveta finds strength in a simple quote she holds close to her heart: "You can't pour from an empty cup." It's a reminder to take care of herself first. "I've learned to set boundaries and say no when I need to. It's not selfish—it's necessary," she says. Finding Balance: Prioritizing What Matters Most When asked how she balances her professional and personal life, Shaveta smiles warmly. "Balance isn't about doing everything; it's about doing what matters most," she says thoughtfully. "As a working mom, I've learned to prioritize and let go of perfectionism.” Shaveta credits much of her ability to balance life to the support of her family especially her husband and daughter. "Having your people around who believes in you makes all the difference." The key is to keep moving with love and intention. For Shaveta, balance is a journey—one that's constantly evolving. She admits that it's not always easy, but it starts with knowing her priorities: family, work, and her personal well-being. Way Ahead : A Life Woven with Purpose Looking back, Shaveta's journey has been one of continuous learning and reinvention. She shares one of her favorite lessons: "Change is the only constant, and growth is a choice. Embrace challenges—they're the best teachers you'll ever have.” Her weekends are a prime example of this. "Weekends are family time," she says with a smile. "It's my chance to be fully present." Whether she's watching movies with her 14- year-old daughter or simply catching up on the little moments they missed during the week, Shaveta cherishes these connections. "Those moments remind me why I do what I do. They keep me grounded.” One of her favourite quotes is "When you were made a leader, you weren't given a crown; you were given the responsibility to bring out the best in others." – Jack Welch. As a leader, you are privileged to be in a position where you can direct, shape, and focus your team's potential to a specific result. Her reflections are a reminder that success is not linear; it's a tapestry woven with setbacks, triumphs, and the courage to keep moving forward. Shaveta Kapoor's story is a beacon of hope and possibility. It is a reminder that leadership is not about having all the answers but about asking the right questions, fostering trust, and inspiring others to rise to their potential. At work, Shaveta has learned to lean on her team. She acknowledges that trying to do it all herself isn't sustainable. "It took me a while to let go of the need to control everything. Now, I trust my team to step up and deliver," she says. "It's about recognizing that we're stronger together.” Her journey is a celebration of resilience, empathy, and the power of purpose—a story that inspires us all to dream big, lead with heart, and leave an enduring legacy. As she continues to break barriers and redefine what's possible, Shaveta remains deeply committed to paying it forward. "At the end of the day," she says, "it's not about what you achieve but about how you make others feel—valued, inspired, and capable of achieving greatness themselves.” But perhaps the most important part of her balance comes from within. Shaveta makes it a point to carve out time for self-care. For her, it's often the little things—journaling her thoughts, getting lost in a book, or taking a quiet walk outside. "Those small rituals bring me back to myself.

Exploring the and of Women in Roles T women do still encounter barriers on their way to leadership. However, with their successes come not only broken glass ceilings but also inspired transformations, redefined norms, and newly included workplaces. he past path of women leaders has been defined by determination, resilience, and stunning successes. Despite giant strides made over these past decades, obligations, namely shouldering immense caregiving responsibilities. This dual expectation they have to juggle can become a source of constant frustration and even burnout hindering any future possible strides in their careers. Apart from that, the work environment, i.e., its policies, may be rather rigid, making it further difficult for women to create an efficient balance. Obstacles Women's Leaders Face Limited Sponsorship Opportunities for Networking: Professional networking is vital in creating opportunities and motivation for advancement; comparatively, women have limited access. Added to that, the absence of good senior leadership mentoring stymies women in overcoming barriers and winning out with relevant leadership opportunities. 3. Beyond the Glass Ceiling Gender Bias and Stereotypes: Gender bias is probably one of the biggest barriers inhibiting women's progress in leadership. Often ingrained in society, such stereotypes consider assertiveness and authority to be traits of men in leadership, and women who demonstrate these perceived undesirable traits become typecast as aggressive or unapproachable. Such stereotypes act as filters that impede women's nominations and selections. 1. Disparity in Pay and Unequal Opportunities: The gender pay gap illustrates that women earn less than men for equivalent roles and responsibilities. Furthermore, women often are not awarded promotions in favor of male counterparts or high-impact projects, which ultimately impede women's scope for career advancement. 4. Work-Life Balance Pressures: Traditionally, while men have been thought to carve out a niche for themselves in the workplace, women have always been busy juggling their professional roles and personal 2. 16 |February, 2025 | www.womenworldindia.com 17 |February, 2025 | www.womenworldindia.com

Subscribe Today Leadership Representation Gaps: Women being less than one-third of the executive population and corporate boards maintain the vicious circle within which aspiring female leaders cannot find role models and sponsors. This lack of visibility deters women from even considering the overture toward leadership. 5. pushing inclusiveness, and ultimately transforming the industries involved. 1. Leaders Driving Change: Women are found leading organizational initiatives on diversity, equity, and inclusion. The result is the fostering of an inclusive workplace culture where diversity of thought can thrive and innovation can flourish. Overcoming Barriers: Strategies for Success Building Supportive Networks and Seeking Mentorship: The growing trend of switching veterinarians will see growing efforts toward support, networks, mentorship programs, and leadership development initiatives, wherein encouraging each other would serve well. In particular, those mentors who successfully traversed challenges face similarities with her in a career context may be delving down their stories, support, and opportunities for protégé development. 2. Breaking Industry Barriers: Perceived barriers of entry for women in industries such as tech, engineering, or finance have already been broken to pave the way for leadership roles. As roadblocks are taken down, these women do not only uphold stereotypes but create opportunities for generations to come. 1. Stay in the known. Subscribe to WOMENWORLDINDIA Get WOMENWORLDINDIA Magazine in print and digital on 3. Inspire the Next Generation: Women in leadership are role models and mentors who encourage women to follow their career aspirations. Their successful stories emphasize the need for stamina and inclusive leadership. Advocate for a More Inclusive Workplace: Policies such as flexible work arrangements, parental leave, and equal pay must be advocated to bring an inclusive and supportive environment. Women leaders who advocate for these policies would help others to shine. 2. 4. Advocating for Sustainable and Social Development: A number of women leaders have stretched their reach beyond corporate avenues, often advocating for sustainability, social justice, and community development. Their leadership offers visibility to the agenda and acts as a catalyst for positive change in society. www.womenworldindia.com Strong Leadership Skills Development: Continuous learning and skill improvements are fundamental for women to climb the leadership hierarchy. Programs in leadership, negotiation, and strategic decision-making can develop women's confidence to lead. 3. A Way Forward to Real Gender Equality To maintain the momentum of barrier-breaking, it will be important for organizations, policymakers, and individuals to work hand in hand on creating an equitable and supportive environment for women in leadership. Programs such as these, along with their associated activities (leadership development, diversity and inclusion, and clear promotion processes), can be used to fast-track organizations closer to gender parity. Break Down Gender Stereotypes: Women leaders must destroy stereotypes by remaining faithful to their styles of leadership; being themselves to display that success can be acted out in many ways. Their story may light a path for many others to follow into leadership. 4. Promote Gender Diversity Initiatives: Gender diversity and inclusion sponsoring programs within organizations are extremely important to addressing various systemic barriers. Women business leaders that promote hiring diverse teams and equitable promotion practices help make an inclusive corporate culture. 5. In Essence… The path is characterized by courage, resilience, and impactful change. Challenges notwithstanding, the success of women's leaders strengthens the vision of inclusion and equity. Women are the ones who create true leadership by breaking barriers and standing up for diversity and equal opportunities for the benefit of the future generations who will come after them. Women Triumphing in Leadership Despite all the challenges in the way of women in leadership, women in leadership roles in many sectors have achieved outstanding success in leading innovation, W O R L D I N D I A 18 |February, 2025 | www.womenworldindia.com

Saumya Singh Leading the Charge in Tech with Passion and Purpose A equips individuals to implement their learnings into real- world applications. This, in turn, helps them navigate the complexities of life and carve a path toward a brighter future. n educated mind, irrespective of its bearer, is often unstoppable. Education not only provides knowledge, novel perspectives, and wisdom but also She immersed herself in various domains, ensuring that she gained a comprehensive understanding of the industry before choosing her path. This clarity at an early stage allowed her to channel her energy into meaningful projects that would eventually shape her career. Beyond excelling in her own career, Saumya is deeply committed to helping others achieve success. She actively guides individuals on how to leverage the power of the internet to monetize their personal brand. She emphasizes that a strong digital presence can open multiple income streams—the key lies in starting at the right time with the right mentorship. Throughout history, human intellect has been limitless, irrespective of gender. However, societal biases have often dictated who could engage in fields of innovation and discovery. STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) has long been perceived as a male-dominated arena, but trailblazing women have shattered these barriers, proving that intellect knows no gender. Among these pioneering women stands Saumya Singh, a Software Engineer, Educator, and Influencer at Red Hat, who is redefining the tech landscape with her expertise, vision, and unwavering dedication. The Lioness of Engineering: Breaking Barriers Saumya Singh has emerged as one of the most influential women engineers of her time. Her journey to success has been guided by a philosophy of passion, perseverance, and continuous learning. The Child Prodigy: A Passion for Learning “Engineering is about constant challenges and innovation. My guiding philosophy is built on passion, perseverance, continuous learning, and collaborative problem-solving.” From an early age, Saumya was drawn to books and knowledge. She was not just an avid learner but a child prodigy, consistently securing the top rank in her academic pursuits and earning the title of Gold Medalist. Her exceptional grasp of mathematics and physics made her a natural fit for a career in technology. Education is the key. open doors for more By promoting STEM women in technology. The industry’s ever-evolving landscape demands adaptability. Saumya understands this better than most. She firmly believes that staying ahead requires embracing new technologies while also ensuring that solutions remain relevant to users. education and skill Software Engineer, development, we can Saumya Singh Educator, and Red Hat In?luencer “When you excel in math and physics, Indian society starts envisioning a successful and prosperous software engineer in you,” she shares. The same held true for her journey. “In a world full of voices, making yours distinct can sometimes be exhausting. But if you stay updated with the latest trends and remain consistent, success is inevitable,” she states. It was during her formative years that she discovered a deep passion for coding, app development, teaching, and content creation. Reflecting on this realization, she says, “I love all of this—technology, personal branding, and helping others succeed. My passion for tech and teaching makes me love this profession.” 20 |February, 2025 | www.womenworldindia.com 21 |February, 2025 | www.womenworldindia.com

Women Leaders in Tech 2025 Her strategy for staying relevant includes: Fostering a Future of Feminine Force: Empowering Women in Tech Using cutting-edge tools for project management, development, and collaboration. Ÿ As a woman in tech, Saumya is committed to inspiring and empowering other women to step into leadership roles. “My vision is to foster positive change within the global landscape of women’s entrepreneurial leadership. I want to create mentorship and networking opportunities to guide aspiring women leaders.” Automating repetitive tasks to enhance productivity. Ÿ Fostering a culture of continuous learning through training and upskilling. Ÿ Her future goals include: Prioritizing innovation by exploring breakthroughs like AI and blockchain. Ÿ Breaking down barriers that hinder women’s progress in tech. Ÿ “In short, embracing technology is at the heart of our strategy. Staying tech-savvy ensures that we remain industry leaders.” Amplifying the visibility of women leaders through storytelling. Ÿ Conquering the Storms: Overcoming Challenges Encouraging more women to pursue STEM careers. Ÿ The COVID-19 pandemic transformed industries overnight. Saumya recalls that navigating these uncertain times required resilience and adaptability. “Education is the key,” she says. “By promoting STEM education and skill development, we can open doors for more women in technology.” “We swiftly transitioned to remote work while ensuring seamless communication and collaboration,” she shares. “We revisited our business strategies, adapted to changing market demands, and prioritized financial stability.” Through mentorship, advocacy, and education, Saumya Singh is leaving a lasting impact—not just in technology but in the larger movement for gender equality in STEM. A Legacy of Leadership and Innovation Beyond business adjustments, Saumya also emphasized corporate social responsibility. The Queen of Quintessential Quantum: A Visionary Leader The Mighty of the Digital Age: Navigating the Tech Landscape Saumya Singh’s journey is an inspiration to aspiring women in tech. From being a child prodigy to becoming a leader in software engineering, education, and digital influence, she embodies passion, perseverance, and purpose. “We supported relief efforts and community initiatives because businesses should also contribute to the greater good,” she adds. Saumya’s leadership is often regarded as an inspirational force. She believes that leadership is not just about guiding a team—it’s about leading oneself first. Significant achievements have marked Saumya’s journey, but one initiative stands out: Techno-Pragmatism of Spirited Leadership: The Digital Future Her story is a testament to the limitless potential of women in STEM. As she continues innovating, mentoring, and empowering others, Saumya is shaping a future where gender no longer defines one’s potential, but ambition and capability do. “During COVID-19, when CamScanner was banned in India, my friend and I developed a similar app. It gained massive popularity, and since then, I haven’t looked back,” she recalls. “It’s about identifying the right opportunity and launching at the right time.” “To push myself to achieve my goals, I must behave like a leader, even to myself,” she says. “Having a compelling vision that inspires not just me but my entire team is crucial. Clear and consistent communication ensures that every team member understands their role in achieving that vision.” Saumya believes that digital transformation is no longer an option—it’s a necessity. “User experience is a key focus,” she says. “We invest in creating seamless digital interactions that enhance user satisfaction.” “Success is not about following trends—it’s about setting them.” With this mindset, Saumya Singh is leading the way in the ever-evolving digital world. For Saumya, leveraging technology is not just an advan- tage—it’s a necessity. She emphasizes balancing innovation with user needs. While emerging trends drive the tech industry, Saumya prioritizes building solutions that address real-world problems. “In today’s digital age, staying ahead requires embracing automation, data analytics, and innovative tools,” she says. “We constantly explore emerging technologies to enhance our efficiency.” Her approach includes: Leveraging AI and automation to streamline processes. Creating intuitive, user-friendly digital interfaces. Exploring AR and VR to elevate user engagement. Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ “It’s not just about creating something new; it’s about creating something useful,” she explains. “If I build an app that the market doesn’t need, then it doesn’t make sense.” 22 |February, 2025 | www.womenworldindia.com 23 |February, 2025 | www.womenworldindia.com

Emergence Powerful Leaders M is the very contemporary topic. Powerful women leaders signify resilience, vision, and redrawing the blueprint of classical power. Thus, the emergence of these women inspires one generation after another. uch like the world around it, the induction of women leaders into the front, tearing walls, and affecting change throughout the various sectors These movements opened doors in these sectors where women had previously been kept at bay by men—politics, business, and technology. Indira Gandhi, Margaret Thatcher, and Angela Merkel shattered the glass ceiling in politics as these women proved that leadership knows no gender. The influence of these leaders has greatly changed social perceptions and inspired the next generations. The Historical Background: Pioneer to Power Modern Day Trailblazers: The Women Carving Out Jaws in the Industry The path to leadership has not been that easy for women. Traditionally, the society norm denied women from acceding to administrative roles; rather, they were to function within the private space, that is, at home. But then this was changed with the rise of feelings from these suffragette movements toward the end of the nineteenth century and early twentieth century, gaining some successes in emancipating women collectively first for the right to vote, thus setting a basis for more improvements. Also, there were feminist movements of the 1960s and 1970s, contributing to different areas toward female empowerment being equal with males in matters like right to work and educational rights. In present times, Gianos and Iasonas' strong women leaders are at the helm of time, with notable influence in corporate Europe, technological inventions, and political movements. Their reach can be described across sectors of: Corporate Leadership: Mary Barra (General Motors CEO) and Ginni Rometty (former IBM CEO) have changed the corporate landscape for women, facilitating growth while innovation flourished, championing diversity and inclusion. • Technology: Breaking the stereotype and leading two tech giants with vision and integrity, Sheryl Sandberg • 24 |February, 2025 | www.womenworldindia.com 25 |February, 2025 | www.womenworldindia.com

Inhibition and Empowerment: By setting remarkable milestones in various leadership positions, they inspire upcoming generations of women to be bold in pursuing their dreams. (earlier COO of Facebook) and Susan Wojcicki (previous CEO of YouTube) have paved the way in redefining the digital space. • Politics/Governance: Kamala Harris (U.S. Vice President) and Jacinda Ardern (former Prime Minister of New Zealand) have epitomized leadership by advocating for social justice, equity, and resilience during the time of crises. • Build for the Future: Empowering the Next Generation For the advancement to continue, an investment in the growing-up phase for tomorrow's women leaders must take place. The approaches include; Breaking the Walls: Challenges Women Leaders Face Mentorship and Networking: Establishing platforms for women to connect, share experiences, and acquire guidance from established leaders. • Despite the successes that the women have recorded, many of them have still found it especially difficult to scale the hurdles included: Education and Skill Building: STEM education and leadership programs for adolescent girls. • Gender bias and Stereotyping: This social trap weakens the credibility of women, with both questions about their authority and decisions. • Policy Advocacy: Policies that promote gender equality with respect to parental leave and equal pay must, thus come into effect. • Unequal Conditions at the Workplace: Minimum salary gaps, lack of mentorship, and opportunities to move into leadership roles-have all conspired to inhibit the potential of the female workforce. • Commencement: Creating a More Inclusive World The emergence of powerful women leaders marks a turning point in the shifting paradigm of world leadership. Their pilgrimage tells the story of resilience, creativity, and dedication to societal uplifting. By breaking the barriers and inspiring change to this effect, women leaders go beyond just transforming industries into a pathway for a more inclusive and equitable world. A future shaped by courage belongs to women leaders, who are truly on the verge of this change. Work-Life Balance: With the career demands and family obligations thrust upon her-many women find their acceptance to be under undue pressure and often have to make some tough decisions. • Being your own boss Yet the trials have only strengthened the spirit behind which the leaderships of women have been able to forge. Gender diversity initiatives, mentoring schemes, and work-life policies are transforming people's lives and allowing more women to pursue leadership roles. The Ramifications of Women Leadership to Society The emergence of the women leader has a society-wide effect that includes the likes of: Economic Development: Research tells us that companies with diversified leadership achieve improved financial performance, thus, fostering innovation and growth. • Social Change: In general, women leaders are passionate about ensuring the betterment of society through areas such as education, health, and environmental sustainability. • 26 |February, 2025 | www.womenworldindia.com

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