At StartUp Terminal, we believe our diversity is our strength. As International Woman’s Day grows near, we celebrate the achievements of women around the world.
To kick off our celebration, we’ve asked Sarika Mangesh, Co-founder of True Frog, an Indian origin personal care brand, a few questions on her experience achieving success in the corporate world, and what advice she has for women entering the workforce today.
Excerpts:
ST: Please tell us briefly about yourself.
Sarika: I am a qualified cosmetologist and have spent almost half of my life studying and researching cosmetic ingredients and their formulations. As an individual and as a woman, I have probably worn all hats that most women do – daughter, mother, wife, educator and now also an entrepreneur and that’s because of the constant support and encouragement from my family and friends. I am also a Crossfit enthusiast and love to apply my blending skills in the kitchen.
ST: Any women leader that inspires you the most and why?’
Sarika: Today women are CEO’s, entrepreneurs and so much more. There are so many women around the world who have inspired millions of women with their thoughts, grit and determination. When women lead with compassion, they inspire the next generation to rise to great heights than ever before. Some of the notable women who have inspired me– Priyanka Chopra , Mary Kom, Lorraine Massey, Maria Montessori Kiran Majumdar Shaw , Indira Nooyi. But, if I were to choose one from recent times then it will be Priyanka Chopra. She is one Indian actor who is probably the most versatile and stands out because of her work.
ST: How are you celebrating this year’s International Women’s Day?
Sarika: So, we haven’t planned anything yet. However, I have a good team of young women colleagues in our office, we might take some time out for ourselves.
ST: Any important message you want to send out to all the women around the world on this occasion.
Sarika: I would urge them to remain positive and have faith in themselves. Don’t wait for someone else to tell you what is good about you. Just trust yourself and build on your skills and strengths. Build a good support system around your family and friends.
ST: What according to you is ‘women empowerment’?
Sarika: I think it’s all about being fair in ones treatment with women. And if that happens, women can take care of themselves. It’s about creating opportunities and not tying them to gender stereotypes.
ST: What according to you are the main challenges faced by women globally?
Sarika: Most women themselves get carried away in their gender stereotypes, there is nothing wrong with those roles but I feel that every woman should devote adequate time for things which they want to pursue or make their own lives full filling and happy. This is where the entire support system of colleagues, friends and family play a significant role.
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