PR offers endless opportunities for growth and impact: Arpana Kumar Ahuja

Whether it's guiding a new generation of employees or battling constant industry challenges, women leaders are the true epitome of how to make progress in the dynamic PR industry in the most difficult of circumstances.

So, to celebrate the spirit of the women leaders who are breaking barriers in the PR and Corp Comm industry, exchange4media launched the 4th edition of e4m Women Achievers' Awards 2023. The awards honoured the remarkable contributions of numerous incredible women leaders, achievers, and trendsetters who have brought new trends, overcome challenges, and paved the way for a more inclusive and diverse future in the PR and Comm Industry globally.

In this edition, we honour Arpana Kumar Ahuja, a seasoned, outcome-driven communications and marketing leader, whose career trajectory and dedication to advancing the PR and Corporate Communications landscape is remarkable. She was facilitated as the ‘Mentor of the Year in the Corp Comm’ at the e4m Women Achievers’ Awards 2023.

Excerpts:
Congratulations on your win at the e4m PR & Corp Comm Women Achievers Awards 2023. How do you feel?
Thank you for recognizing my achievement at the e4m PR & Corp Comm Women Achievers Awards 2023. Winning this award is delightful and validates the hard work and dedication of not just myself, but also my team and mentors who have supported me along the way. I feel immensely grateful for this honour and motivated to continue pushing boundaries in the field of PR and corporate communications.

What inspires you on your journey and endeavours?
My journey and endeavors are inspired by a deep passion for communication and a commitment to making a positive impact. I am continually inspired by the power of storytelling to connect people, drive change, and shape perceptions. Moreover, witnessing the transformative effect of effective communication on businesses and society motivates me to strive for excellence in everything I do.

In what ways have you witnessed the PR and corporate communications industry change and evolve over the years? What global practices would you see implemented in India?
Over the years, the PR and corporate communications industry has undergone significant transformations driven by technological advancements, shifting consumer behavior, and evolving media landscapes. One notable change is the growing importance of digital and social media platforms in shaping communication strategies. Additionally, there has been a shift towards more authentic, transparent, and purpose-driven communication efforts. In terms of global practices, I believe India can benefit from adopting practices, such as packaging your work, which involves presenting your communication efforts in a strategic and compelling manner. By presenting case studies, success stories, and measurable results in a structured format and showcasing tangible outcomes and demonstrating the impact of PR efforts, Indian PR professionals can enhance their credibility and build trust with clients and stakeholders.

Tell us about your most valuable learning from the industry. Where do you foresee the PR and comms industry in the coming days?
One of the most valuable learnings from my experience in the industry is the importance of adaptability and resilience. In an ever-changing landscape, being able to embrace change, learn from setbacks, and innovate new approaches is crucial for success.

Looking ahead, I foresee the PR and communications industry continuing to evolve rapidly, driven by advancements in technology, the rise of data-driven insights, AI provided enablement, and the growing demand for authentic and meaningful engagement. As communication professionals, we must stay agile, continuously learn, and anticipate future trends to stay ahead of the curve.

What would be your message to the future generation of professionals?
To the future generation of professionals entering the field of PR and communications, my message would be to embrace curiosity, creativity, and collaboration. This industry offers endless opportunities for growth and impact, but success requires a willingness to learn, adapt, and challenge the status quo. Always strive to be a lifelong learner, seek out diverse perspectives, and never underestimate the power of empathy and authenticity in building meaningful connections. Most importantly, remember that your voice matters, and you have the power to shape narratives that inspire positive change in the world.