'It's always a woman inspiring and uplifting another woman'
Guest Column: As part of e4m’s She is Strength series, Shradha Agarwal, Founder and CEO- Grapes, writes about the women who taught her the importance of self-love
We all have that one woman in our lives who sparks true transformation within us. The ones who actually hit that spot right there in your heart and remind you of who you are!
That “shero” in my life was Pooja Arya Narayan, my sister-in-law. She has been a great inspiration to me. She has been that woman who pushed me to a space where I started believing that life is not always about your family, your relationships, or your goals, but sometimes it's just about you.
Her journey has been truly extraordinary and remarkable. Despite her husband’s job being in India, she left the country and moved to Dubai for a better opportunity. With this, she made me believe that it's okay to think about yourself and consider your own needs before anything or anyone else. Her example has been a powerful reminder that anyone’s worth isn't tied to sacrifices made but rather in valuing and honoring each other. Their commitment to their individual dreams and aspirations is truly admirable. Regardless of everything, they travel back and forth from Dubai to India to support each other and continue to pursue their goals. Their partnership and dedication to each other's success serve as a shining example of love, passion, and mutual support.
The other most profound lesson her decision taught me is that a career isn't always about earning money; sometimes it's about raising a bar for yourself and those around you. Her example made me realize that success is not just about financial gain but also about personal growth and fulfillment, which she achieved by making that one bold decision in her life.
My next true inspiration is Ghazal Alagh, Chief Executive and Co-Founder of MamaEarth. Her journey and accomplishments resonate deeply with me on a personal level. I admire how she has built something so great for herself, demonstrating her resilience, determination, and strong vision to become the strong, powerful businesswoman she is today.
What strikes me most about Ghazal is her ability to maintain a perfect balance in her life while running a successful business with her husband. With this, she has not only defied traditional gender roles but also managed to establish herself as a strong business woman in the industry. This is a testament to her strength and determination to break stereotypes and pursue one's passions, regardless of societal expectations.
By carving her path in the business world, she has become a role model for many women, showing them that they can achieve their dreams and excel in their careers without compromising their personal lives. Moreover, her success is a reminder that collaboration and support within a partnership can lead to greater achievements. Her partnership with her husband in running MamaEarth demonstrates the power of teamwork and shared goals in building a thriving business.
These two women have been true “sheroes" to me, embodying the concept of a modern woman who is truly working hard to "have it all." They have taught me that before excelling in our careers, nurturing our families, and taking care of our well-being, we must prioritize ourselves.
Lastly, I know that in professional settings, women often face unique challenges when it comes to being perceived as leaders. While a well-dressed man in a boardroom is rarely judged, a well-dressed woman speaking confidently for herself may face scrutiny or judgment in many ways.
However, despite these challenges, I am inspired by the women around me who are breaking barriers and excelling in their fields. They show me that even though the road may be tough, it's possible to navigate it with grace and strength.
