SHE is the epitome of success
SHE is a Visionary, a Leader, an Innovator, a Changemaker
SHE is the embodiment of Strength, Courage, Fearlessness, Resilience
SHE is a Multi-Tasker, a Relentless Achiever
SHE is a Life-giver, a Nurturer
March 8th is not just a date, but it is a day to celebrate womanhood, and to celebrate the achievements of a woman as a mother, a daughter, a homemaker, a career woman, and a friend. It is a day of reflection of the challenges that lie ahead.
Every year, International Women’s Day is celebrated with a specific theme that highlights key aspects of gender equality. The campaign theme for this year is “Accelerate Action" that emphasises the urgent need to take decisive steps toward achieving gender equality, addressing the slow pace of progress, and empowering women and girls worldwide.
The theme for 2025, according to the United Nations (UN) include “For All Women and Girls: Rights, Equality, and Empowerment." This theme highlights the significance of establishing a more equitable world by ensuring equal opportunities, rights, and empowerment for all women and girls.
Representation of Women in the Tech World!
Women are playing a pivotal role in driving the growth of the tech industry. The IT industry provides endless opportunities for innovation and advancement. Many tech companies have been successful in making strides in investing in their women workforce by enhancing female leadership, and offering programs tailored to the needs of women working in technology.
But this has been just not enough for a woman in tech to break the barrier. Despite ongoing efforts to foster diversity and inclusion, women continue to be underrepresented in important leadership roles, reinforcing a cycle of inequality.
Let this year’s IWD act as a catalyst for change, igniting conversations, advocacy, and efforts to tackle systemic inequalities and advance gender equality in the IT industry. Let it offer a platform for women to share their experiences, elevate their voices, and hold industry leaders accountable.
VARINDIA brings to our readers a few industry women trailblazers who put in their thoughts and opinions to give a special message on this Women’s Day to the industry -
Sunita Cherian, Chief Culture Officer, Wipro Limited
“Creating an equitable future requires consistent and meaningful action. At Wipro, we foster a culture that truly appreciates every associate, nurtures their development and offers equal opportunities to all. We are committed to consistent education & training, attentive listening, and evolving our practices to embed inclusion into every aspect that grows our business.”
Smita Hashim, Chief Product Officer, Zoom Communications, Inc.
“As we celebrate International Women’s Day, it’s vital for leaders to recognize that ‘accelerating action’ for women begins with fostering a workplace where they feel a deep sense of belonging and are empowered to thrive. True belonging stems from an open environment—one where experiences are shared, learning is encouraged, and support is available at all levels. For me, embracing a mindset of curiosity and continuous learning has been fundamental to growth. We are living in an unprecedented era of AI innovation, with Agentic AI poised to transform nearly every aspect of how we work and live. This shift raises the bar—curiosity is no longer just valuable; it’s essential for leadership success.”
Dr. Heather Domin, Vice President and Head of Office of Responsible AI and Governance, HCLTech
“Technology offers exciting opportunities for women to explore new career paths and achieve more in less time. It can empower them both professionally and personally. Professionally, new roles such as prompt engineering and AI agent developer are emerging, and transitioning into these positions is often possible with the help of Low Code or No Code tools. Additionally, technology can enhance productivity and excellence in existing roles like customer service or business operations. On a personal level, leveraging technology such as AI and AI agents can free up valuable time to spend with family and friends or focus on important personal goals related to health and wellness. Moreover, personalized experiences designed with responsible AI can provide better consumer experiences for women.”
Priya Krishnamurthy, Director – Commercial Sales, Acer India
"Women have been pivotal in shaping innovation and progress across industries. This International Women's Day, under the theme ‘Accelerate Action,’ we recognize that advancing gender equality is not just a necessity but a catalyst for transformation. To truly build an equitable tech industry, we must inspire young girls to explore STEM, support women already in the field, and create pathways for leadership. It requires action, mentorship, and a collective commitment from organizations, leaders, and communities. When women are empowered, we don’t just bridge gaps—we ignite innovation, accelerate economic growth, and create a future that benefits everyone. Let’s break barriers, challenge biases, and build an industry where every woman and girl has the chance to thrive."
Geetha Ramanna, Director, Software Development and Network Security, Sophos
"Within the cybersecurity industry, there is a strong need to invest in and embrace the potential of women to transform the sector. In my experience, working in an environment where mentorship is encouraged, and robust support systems thrive, can be a game-changer and opens up several doors for our growth. Cybersecurity is a highly dynamic space, with its fair share of complexities. Being able to efficiently work in such an environment requires innovative thinking, adaptability and empathy- the qualities that women excel in. An increase in representation in the sector is not only about diversity, it's about ensuring a more resilient and inclusive digital world. As we move ahead, we look forward to a world with increased inclusivity and seeing more women techies thrive in the cybersecurity space.”
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Vasanthi Ramesh, Managing Director, NetApp India
"We recognise that diversity isn't just a metric — it drives innovation. Women currently hold 10.4% of leadership positions in Fortune 500 companies, this presents tremendous opportunities for more women to break the glass ceiling and make an impact. A three-pronged approach can pave the way for future leadership: proactive networking to build meaningful relationships, clear and confident communication to amplify our voices, and a strong mentorship culture to support one another. With AI and intelligent data infrastructure reshaping the industry, it brings an incredible opportunity for women in tech. Progress isn’t just about representation, it’s about empowerment. As leaders, we must ensure equal access to skills, invest in growth, and foster an inclusive culture. When we step out of our comfort zones and uplift one another, we don’t just change the industry—we redefine it."
Lakshmi Mittra, SVP and Head, Clover Academy
“A career in technology has been both fulfilling and transformative for me. I have always been fascinated by how dynamic the tech industry is—it constantly evolves, creating endless opportunities to learn and grow. This year's International Women's Day theme, 'Accelerate Action,' is a powerful reminder that progress happens when we step forward with confidence and purpose. To young women aspiring to build a career in STEM—do not be intimidated. The path ahead may have its challenges, but many women before you have walked it and paved the way. Keep learning, keep exploring, and remember—you belong here."
Eduarda Camacho, Chief Operating Officer at CyberArk
“International Women's Day is a powerful reminder of the importance of self-belief and rejecting limiting stereotypes. During my first tech job interview, I was told that, despite my strong work experience, being a foreign woman without a background in engineering would hold me back. But my heritage and gender are strengths, not weaknesses, and they do not define my career. Strength and ability are not bound by gender. This year’s theme, Accelerating Action, reinforces that collective effort drives workplace equality. By supporting one another, amplifying each other’s voices, and working towards breaking down these barriers, we can build a more inclusive and equitable world for all."
Latha Narayanan, Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO), L&T Semiconductor Technologies
“The semiconductor industry is at the forefront of technological innovation, and diversity is key to unlocking its full potential. By empowering women to take on leadership roles and contribute to groundbreaking advancements, we are not only accelerating gender equity but also driving innovation and growth for our organization and the industry.”
Aastha Dave, Engineer Manager, Nutanix
“Empowering women to lead brings fresh ideas and impactful solutions. By creating inclusive, flexible, and supportive workplaces, we unlock everyone’s potential benefiting women, men, and the entire tech industry. Mentorship is key to growth whether it's receiving guidance or offering it. Leadership isn’t about being in charge; it’s about empowering teams, building trust, and creating an environment where everyone thrives. For women, access to mentors, flexible work policies, and support around motherhood can make a huge difference. Lifelong learning is also crucial staying curious, embracing new challenges, and gaining hands-on experience fuels growth. But it’s not just about individual effort. Companies must build inclusive cultures that celebrate diversity, offer equal opportunities, and break down barriers to success.”
Jharna Thammaiah, Director & India site People & Places Leader, Intuit
“Reflecting on my own journey, I remember the invaluable guidance I have received from mentors and coaches who believed in my potential. As a more experienced professional and HR leader now, I am grateful for the guidance that came in at some very critical and pivotal times in my career and life which influenced many of my decisions and I'm committed to paying it forward. Mentoring emerging talent fosters confidence and unlocks potential, creating a dynamic and inclusive future. A common challenge I have observed is a lack of clarity and focus among mentees, often fixated on milestones like promotions. Effective mentoring involves helping them clarify their "why" and "what," building a stronger foundation for their development. Trust-based, objective mentoring brings unique perspectives, experiences, and skills, driving impactful growth.”
Anita Kukreja, Head - Strategic Alliances and Brand, IceWarp
"Women have played a pivotal role in shaping the scientific and technological advancements that define our world today. However, despite their immense contributions, gender disparities persist in STEM fields. On this International Day of Women and Girls in Science, we not only celebrate the achievements of women in science and technology but also recognize the need for greater inclusivity, mentorship, and opportunities for young girls aspiring to enter these fields. As we celebrate this day, let’s commit to inspiring and nurturing the next generation of female scientists, engineers, and innovators. By supporting women in science today, we pave the way for a more inclusive, progressive, and technologically advanced future. The time to act is now."
Vandana Singal, Pre-sales Head – PDES, Happiest Minds Technologies
"International Women's Day 2025 is an inspiring reminder of the amazing advancements women are creating in the technology landscape. Leadership by them isn't about taking seats of power; it's about promoting cooperation, driving humane innovation, and advocating for inclusion. The innovations led under women leaders propel the creation of revolutionary technologies, and their courage is inspiring the next generations of woman technologists. Let us help them to further build a fairer and technology-driven world through mentorship, resource access, and spaces in which they will be heard."
Anupama Katkar, Chief of Operational Excellence, Quick Heal and Chairperson, Quick Heal Foundation
"Giving back to society is something I am deeply passionate about, especially when it comes to empowering women. Women are natural leaders—balancing multiple roles at home and work, navigating challenges with resilience and adaptability. It is imperative that they harness the opportunities available today, stepping into spaces where their voices and skills can make a lasting impact.
The digital era demands that we not only equip women with technical expertise but also instill the confidence to lead. When a woman understands how to safeguard her digital identity, she becomes a role model, inspiring others to follow. To me, being future-ready means creating ecosystems where women don’t just participate but thrive. We must actively dismantle barriers—whether through mentorship, accessible resources, or policies that support work-life balance. Every woman trained today is a step toward a more inclusive and equitable digital future".
“Today's woman is a leader who can shape up any obstacle into an opportunity. They can be mothers as well as leaders but, with only 29% of the global AI workforce being female, it's time for women to step up, claim our space, and lead. In my experience of years in industry, academia, and research, I have seen how resilience opens doors especially in the case of women. They can be the catalysts for innovation and progress. On this Women’s Day, let’s turn underrepresentation into opportunity. Keep learning, keep pushing, and never settle. The future of innovation needs us—not just as participants, but as leaders.”
Harsha Solanki, VP & General Manager – Asia Infobip
“As the world marks International Women’s Day, the spotlight shines on the transformative power of talent in building intelligent security systems through AI and cybersecurity. These fields are witnessing an unprecedented surge in demand, and its talent and not gender that drives success. India is a leader in the AI space, with initiatives like FutureSkills PRIME and NASSCOM’s Women in Technology program encouraging women to upskill in AI and cybersecurity. The government’s Digital India Mission further amplifies these efforts, aiming to create a tech-savvy, gender-agnostic workforce. With government and industry pushing for inclusivity, India will be emerging as a global AI leader. Programs encouraging women in tech ensure the nation harnesses all talent to secure a smarter future. Ultimately, building intelligent security systems demands the best minds, regardless of gender. Organizations have a responsibility to champion talent, ensuring women and men alike thrive. As Sheryl Sandberg, COO of Meta, said "In the future, there will be no female leaders. There will just be leaders."
Suvarna Nikam, Global HR Head, Visionet Systems
“Progress on gender equity and inclusivity demands more than intent—it calls for fast-paced action, clear goals with measurable impact, committed tracking, and above all, an unapologetic drive to learn and grow. We must start early, cultivate strong internal sponsors and champions across our teams and organization, and foster a culture of shared learning. Real change happens when we lead by example, transforming ambition into decisive action and tangible outcomes. This International Women’s Day, let’s not just celebrate—let’s accelerate action!"
Zaiba Sarang, the Co-Founder, iThink Logistics
“As women juggle multiple roles—professionals, caregivers, leaders, and more—finding the right work-life balance is crucial. Prioritizing mental and physical well-being isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity. Simple hacks like setting clear boundaries, scheduling 'me-time,' and embracing delegation can make a huge difference. Remember, productivity thrives when you are at your best, not when you are overworked. A well-balanced life fuels long-term success and happiness.”
Stacia Marie Jones, Global Vice President, Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Action (IDEA), Employee Relations, and Employment Policy & Compliance, lululemon“Empowering women in the workplace isn’t just about increasing representation—it’s about building cultures where they can truly thrive, lead, and shape the future. When inclusion, diversity, equity, and action are woven into the fabric of an organization, every voice is heard, valued, and has the power to drive meaningful change. Workplaces that foster these values create environments where people feel supported to bring their full selves to work—unlocking innovation, collaboration, and long-term success.”
Geetanjli Dhanjal, Managing Director, Yantra – A Riveron Company
“Women in technology are not just part of the story—they are writing the future. As visionaries, leaders, and changemakers, they are driving innovation, breaking barriers, and reshaping industries. The growing presence of women in tech reflects a broader movement toward inclusion and empowerment. By 2026, women’s workforce participation in India’s tech sector is expected to reach 14.9%, up from 10.8% in 2022, and it’s growing at an annual rate of 5.5%, according to a report by TeamLease Digital.
But true progress isn’t just about representation—it’s about ensuring women don’t just enter a particular field but thrive, lead, and revolutionize the profession. To make this a reality, organizations must take meaningful action to create an environment where women can succeed. This means fostering inclusive workplace cultures that actively challenge biases, ensuring fair hiring and promotion practices, and offering equal pay. And, to help women advance in their careers, it’s essential to have flexible work policies and robust support systems, such as mentorship programs and leadership training.”
Smitha Hemmigae, Head of Marketing, ANSR
“AI adoption, automation, and digital transformation are no longer just industry trends; they are areas where women in GCCs are playing an active role. However, while representation and mentorship have improved, challenges such as pay disparity and career acceleration still require continued attention. GCCs are uniquely positioned to lead this transformation. With diversity ratios surpassing 35% in many centers within the first year, these organizations are proving that gender inclusion is not just a commitment but a catalyst for innovation. By strengthening mentorship programs, leadership pipelines, and sponsorship initiatives, we can ensure that women are not just part of the conversation but are leading the way in shaping the future of technology.”
Joyshree Das Verma, National President, FICCI FLO
"Accelerating action for gender parity isn’t just the goal but a necessity. Instead of waiting for change, we must step up and be the change. Women have talent, resilience, and vision to drive national growth, yet they continue to struggle with access to finance, skill development, and leadership roles. Having experienced the power of financial independence, I believe empowering women is not just fair but essential for economic progress. At FICCI FLO, we are committed to driving this change through impactful skilling initiatives across levels, like the recent 100 Girls Empowerment Program and the Women Directors Program. With projects like India’s first 100% women-owned industrial park in Hyderabad, we are setting new benchmarks. Progress happens when we take action, and the time to act is now."
Anjali Sharma, Director, Global Head of L&D, Fulcrum Digital
“The ascent of women in tech in India is both a triumph and a call to action. Despite the challenges within the traditionally male-dominated realm, we have witnessed a remarkable shift as women rise through the ranks, particularly in cutting-edge fields like deep tech. In recognition of the importance of diverse perspectives in technology development, women have proven to bring unique value for equity in tech, ethical innovation, and inclusivity
However, a significant gender gap still exists: in India today, 43% of STEM course enrolees are female, which is one of the highest in the world; however, only 14% of tech leadership roles in the country are held by women. This inconsistency exists due to barriers such as societal norms and biases that keep women from progressing in the tech industry. When advocating for an increased representation of women in tech, learning and development (L&D) becomes essential. Investing in education, mentorship, and leadership initiatives empowers women to break barriers.”
Poonam Puthran, Executive Vice President - Banking at Aurionpro
“We are honoured to be part of a movement where women are at the forefront of technology, breaking barriers, and leading with vision. This International Women’s Day, we celebrate the incredible women in tech who inspire and pave the way for others. In the dynamic world of technology, women play a pivotal role in shaping the landscape. With their leadership and resilience, we chart a course towards excellence, driving our organization forward with purpose and determination. Today, we stand together, proud of our achievements and inspired by the limitless possibilities ahead.”
Anamika Luthra, Key Business Account Manager, 5Tattva
“International Women’s Day is a powerful reminder of the strength, resilience, and determination of women across all walks of life. Women today are not just breaking barriers but are also redefining leadership, innovation, and success in every industry. From boardrooms to classrooms, from science labs to startups, their contributions are shaping a more progressive and inclusive world. However, true empowerment comes when we create an ecosystem that nurtures equal opportunities, recognizes talent beyond gender biases, and fosters a culture of respect and support. Together, we can build a future where every woman has the freedom to dream, the courage to lead, and the opportunity to succeed without limitations. Let’s inspire change, break stereotypes, and create a world where equality is not just an ideal but a reality.”
Ramya Parashar, Chief Operating Officer, MiQ
“Empowerment isn’t about giving women a seat at the table, it’s about redesigning the table so that inclusion is the norm, not the exception. True equality means breaking not just barriers, but mindsets that limit ambition, opportunity, and voice. For all women and girls, empowerment begins when we stop seeking permission and start owning our power—when we champion not just our own success but create pathways for others to rise. The future isn’t waiting to be shaped by someone else. It’s ours to lead, build, and transform. Let’s not just talk about equality, let’s drive it, demand it, and make it undeniable.”
Aparna Giriprasad, Sr. Manager, Technical Product Support, Sabre
“This year’s Women’s Day theme – #AccelerateAction – speaks to the urgency of our time. While progress has been made in bringing women’s voices to the table, we are still far from achieving true equality. It remains limited to few sectors and roles, and the path ahead is long. To accelerate our efforts, we need all genders to come together in conscious action – educating, empowering, and creating equal opportunities for women. This women’s day I am hopeful though the summit of equality may seem distant, together, we rise to reach its peak.”
Priya Chakkingal, Director- Investment Operations and Risk Services & Co-chair of WIN, Acuity Knowledge Partners“Education is the first step towards empowering women, making it important to ensure they have equal right to access to it. When women have access to education, they become more aware of their rights. With the right education and skills, they can achieve financial empowerment. Which in turn, gives them confidence and helps build the foundation for a transformative change in the social and economic structures of society as a whole.”
Asha BV Senior Director, Global Software Engineering, at Philips Innovation Campus
“As a leading health-tech company at the forefront of innovations aimed at delivering better care to more people, we are deeply committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse work environment. We firmly believe that the challenges faced by our customers can only be fully addressed if our organization truly reflects the diverse market we serve. Over the years, we have seen firsthand how the full and equal participation of women is essential to driving innovation, productivity, and overall growth. At Philips, we don’t just talk about inclusion – we make it a reality.”
Neha Sampat, Founder & CEO, Contentstack
“Technology has the power to level the playing field, and women are already leading its transformation across industries. To sustain this progress, businesses must go beyond symbolic representation and ensure that women have real influence in leadership, decision-making, and innovation. Diversity is not just about hiring—it is about creating environments where different perspectives shape the future of technology in meaningful ways. In an era of rapid change, the organisations that thrive will be those that recognise inclusion not as a concession, but as a strategic advantage that drives better outcomes for everyone."
Neha Bagaria, Founder and CEO, HerKey
“Women in India are not just breaking ceilings; they are redefining the very structures that once held them back. The future of work is inclusive, and it is time for organisations to actively champion women’s leadership, not just as a goal but as a necessity for business success. By fostering a culture of mentorship, flexibility, and equal opportunities, we can unlock the immense potential of women in the workforce and drive meaningful progress for the economy. True empowerment comes when women are supported at every stage of their career journey, from entry to leadership, creating a cycle of growth that benefits all."
Weighing in on the role of diversity in shaping the future of technology, Ajay Sawant of Orient Technologies and Kumar Mitra of Lenovo ISG opine of what they think what inclusivity in the tech industry should be like.
“An inclusive tech industry begins with empowering women to grow, lead, and innovate. Their contributions—whether driving AI advancements or shaping strategic decisions—are invaluable. But true progress goes beyond representation; it’s about creating an environment where women can thrive, break barriers, and redefine success. Achieving gender diversity requires decisive action. Upskilling and reskilling enable women to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving industry, while investing in STEM education, especially in India, nurtures the next generation of women technologists,” says Ajay Sawant, Chairman and Managing Director, Orient Technologies Limited.
“2025 is a pivotal year for tech, with companies redefining hiring strategies and deepening their commitment to diversity. While global trends set the pace, India has the opportunity to lead—placing inclusion and innovation at the heart of progress. Diversity isn’t just valuable—it’s essential. Different perspectives fuel innovation and growth. As India’s tech sector transforms, businesses are creating more opportunities for women to thrive. At Lenovo, women have long been a driving force. International Women’s Day reminds us that progress is a journey. At Lenovo, we believe in Smarter Technology for All, where diverse voices shape the future. As we celebrate this year’s theme, ‘For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment,’ we remain committed to fostering a culture where everyone can make an impact and drive the breakthroughs that define our digital future,” comments Kumar Mitra, Managing Director and Regional General Manager, CAP & ANZ, Lenovo Infrastructure Solutions Group.
May you continue to shine, inspire, and break barriers. Wishing you a wonderful Women's Day!
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