Powerful Womes Leaders to Follow in 2025 1

December • Issue 115 • 2025

Bold Steps, Big Impact Spotlight on Rising Women Creating Meaningful Change

Shaping a New Era How Women Are Driving Innovation And Shaping the Future

POWERFUL

Women LEADERS to Follow in 2025

CHARU BHAT An Architect of Corporate Integrity –

Upholding the Spirit of Law while Building a Culture of Collective Excellence

Vice President -Legal Reliance Industries Limited

ISSN- 2998- 8535

insightssuccessindia.com

Your Legacy Featured

Where Leaders Make

Headlines Showcasing Advisory Impact Gaining Unmatched Exposure

Establishing as Industry Authority Featuring on International platform

Get Featured in

Insights Success India’s Upcoming Edition Where Top Business Minds share their Success Stories

Scan the QR and fill the form — insightssuccessindia.com

If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more. You are a leader.

- John Quincy Adams

A note from our

Director

Celebrating Leadership That Creates Real Impact

L

eadership today is no longer defined by titles alone; it is shaped by influence, resilience, and the ability to create meaningful change. As organisations and industries continue to adapt to new realities, women leaders are playing a decisive role in redefining success: bringing clarity, inclusivity, and purpose to the forefront. It is with this belief that we present Powerful Women Leaders to Follow in 2025.

This edition has been thoughtfully curated to spotlight women who are not only excelling in their respective domains but are also shaping work cultures, decision-making, and futureready mindsets. These leaders challenge conventions, break barriers, and prove that progress is strongest when driven by vision and conviction.

Through this edition, we aim to acknowledge journeys rooted in perseverance, continuous learning, and a deep sense of responsibility toward growth, both personal and organisational.

Charu Bhat has been chosen as the cover story for her ability to lead with clarity and purpose in a space that demands constant innovation and adaptability. Her professional journey reflects a strong balance of strategic thinking and people-centric leadership.

She stands out for her consistent focus on results while remaining deeply aligned with values that inspire trust and collaboration.

What truly sets her apart is her approach to leadership, one that encourages ownership, nurtures talent, and adapts confidently to change. Her story resonates with the essence of this edition, serving as a source of inspiration for aspiring leaders and seasoned professionals alike.

As CEO and Managing Director, I believe this edition will resonate with readers who seek authentic leadership stories. It is our way of recognising women who lead with strength, insight, and purpose, setting benchmarks for the future.

Manish Bansal Director, Insights Success India

IT IS NOT THE STRONGEST OF THE SPECIES THAT SURVIVES, NOR THE MOST INTELLIGENT THAT SURVIVES. IT IS THE ONE THAT IS THE MOST ADAPTABLE TO CHANGE.”

Editor' s Note

Voices of Leadership That Shape Tomorrow

L

eadership has always been about responsibility, but today it also demands courage, empathy, and the ability to make thoughtful choices under constant scrutiny. Women leaders across industries continue to redefine what authority looks like, not through force, but through consistency, clarity, and conviction. Their journeys reflect years of perseverance, learning, and an unwavering belief in doing what is right, even when the path is uncertain.

These are leaders who influence change quietly yet decisively, leaving lasting impressions on people and systems alike.

What sets such leadership apart is its deeply human core. It is built on trust, accountability, and the willingness to listen as much as to lead. Women in leadership roles often balance multiple expectations while staying rooted in their values. Their success stories are rarely overnight achievements; they are the result of patience, resilience, and thoughtful decisionmaking. These journeys deserve to be acknowledged not as exceptions, but as powerful reminders of what purposeful leadership truly means.

With this intent, Powerful Women Leaders to Follow in 2025 brings together stories that reflect strength, vision, and influence. This edition celebrates women who have earned respect through consistency and clarity of purpose. Each narrative highlights how leadership can inspire confidence, shape culture, and create opportunities for others to grow. It is a recognition of voices that guide teams forward while remaining grounded in integrity and responsibility.

Beyond recognition, this edition is meant to inspire reflection. It encourages readers to look beyond titles and focus on values that sustain long-term success. Leadership is not about being the loudest voice in the room, but about making decisions that stand the test of time. By sharing these journeys, we hope to encourage more inclusive conversations around growth, accountability, and the true meaning of influence.

The featured leader on our cover represents a thoughtful approach to leadership rooted in clarity and purpose. Her journey reflects a strong ability to adapt, guide teams with confidence, and deliver results without compromising values. She is known for balancing strategic thinking with a people-first mindset. Through her work, she continues to inspire trust, progress, and a sense of shared purpose among those she leads.

Let the pages fill you with not just insights, but ideas in motion!

Gaurav PR Wankhade Managing Editor

CONTENT A Young Prodigy –

Dr Medha Vyas

18

Setting New Benchmarks in Neurosurgery

THE STORIES WITHIN

The Champion of Sight –

Dr Preeti Sharma 22

The Visionary Who Fights for the Future of Every Child’s Eyes

Rachna Sarup 30

The Conscious Innovator of Sustainable Fashion

THE FRONT PAGE EXCLUSIVE

An Architect of Corporate Integrity –

10

Charu Bhat

Upholding the Spirit of Law while Building a Culture of Collective Excellence

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

26

34

Shaping a New Era How Women Are Driving Innovation And Shaping the Future

Bold Steps, Big Impact Spotlight on Rising Women Creating Meaningful Change

CREDITS Chief Operating Officer

MEGHA MISHRA

EDITORIAL TEAM Editor-in-Chief

POOJA M. BANSAL

Managing Editor

GAURAV PR WANKHADE

Assisting Editor

DEEKSHA BANERJEE

sales@insightssuccess.in

December, 2025

DESIGN TEAM

Corporate Offices:

Visualizer

SANDEEP TIKODE

Art & Design Director

SARITA BHAGAT

Insights Success Media and Technology Pvt. Ltd. Survey No. 133/134, Brand Square, Office No. 512, Kunjir Chowk, Pimple Saudagar, Pune, Maharashtra 411027 Phone - India: +91 8793630422/24 Email: info@insightssuccess.in For Subscription: www.insightssuccessindia.com

SALES TEAM Chief Growth Officer

SWAPNALI VASAIKAR

Asst. Vice President

TEJASWINI WHAVAL

Sales Manager

NEHA PAWAR

BDE

SNEHA KASABE

Follow us on : www.facebook.com/insightssuccess/ https://x.com/insightssuccess

We are also available on

DEVELOPMENT TEAM Technical Head

PRACHI MOKASHI

Technical Specialist

RAJESHWARI AVHAD

SEO TEAM Copyright © 2025 Insights Success Media and Technology Pvt. Ltd., All 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 Insights Success Media and Technology Pvt. Ltd. Reprint rights remain solely with Insights Success. Printed and Published by Insights Success Media and Technology Pvt. Ltd. RNI NUMBER: MAHENG/2018/75953

Digital Marketing Manager

VAISHNAVI PALVE

Featuring

Organisation

Brief

Charu Bhat, Vice President -Legal

Reliance Industries Limited

Charu Bhat is a respected legal leader advocating willpower, corporate integrity, and stronger representation of women in leadership roles.

Dr Deepa Patil, Senior Homoeopathic Consultant

Chaitanya Homeopathic Clinic, Baner

Dr. Deepa Patil promotes holistic well-being through homeopathy, mindfulness, and psychology, while inspiring thoughtful planning for a healthier, balanced year ahead.

Dr Medha Vyas, Neurosurgeon

NA

Dr Medha is a highly skilled neurosurgeon known for precision, advanced minimally invasive techniques, and compassionate patient-centered care.

Dr Preeti Sharma, In Charge of Paediatric Optometry and Faculty of Binocular Vision

Dr Shroff’s Charity Eye Hospital (SCEH)

Dr Preeti Sharma is a dedicated optometry leader advancing child vision care through prevention, research, education, and early awareness initiatives.

Rachna Sarup, Co-founder and CEO

B77 TechStyles Pvt Ltd

Rachna Sarup blends sustainable fashion with innovation, proving style, comfort, and conscience can coexist meaningfully.

Powerful Women Leaders to Follow in 2025

THE FRONT PAGE EXCLUSIVE

An Architect of Corporate Integrity –

CHARU BHAT

Upholding the Spirit of Law while Building a Culture of Collective Excellence

Vice President -Legal Reliance Industries Limited

E

very human being―irrespective of gender, class, creed, or socio-economic or geopolitical status―is powerful enough to transform his/her life and have an impact on lives of others believes Charu Bhat. "It is the power of human will or willpower," she says. Charu herself is widely recognized among powerful women leaders to follow because of numerous factors. She is an expert in the legal field, especially in corporate commercial law. She is determined to deliver her best and protect the interests of the organization she works for- Reliance Industries Limited.

Moreover, Charu is a vocal advocate of increasing women's participation, not only in entry or mid-level positions, but also in leadership positions like hers. She is a Vice President Legal at Reliance.

The Evolution of Purpose Charu's formidable journey into corporate law began in 1995 with a pragmatic path toward civil services, choosing law merely as a strong academic foundation. A pioneer in her time, she was among the first students in the nascent five-year law course. As time passed, her studies began to unfold a new understanding: the fast-paced world of law was much more exciting than civil service. She threw herself into a fastgrowing field because the turn of the century was the start of business and corporate documentation and commercial contracting taken to an all-time high in India. After completing her articleship, undertaking a Master's program, and taking her Solicitor's exams, it was pretty simple to decide at that point. She joined Reliance in 2003, an important move that allowed Charu to be a part of significant growth of one of India's largest conglomerates. She views her career as a long race, declaring: "I'm like somewhere in the middle of where I think I will finally get."

Leading Through the Deluge Stepping into Reliance was, as she describes it, an "exciting and overwhelming experience." The sheer scale of the organization, the vast array of businesses, and the constant, rapid evolution of corporate law—with new notifications emerging daily—presented a monumental challenge. Charu responded to this with a special combination of humility and resolve, identifying herself as a lifelong student of learning.

Her answer was to be a "sponge," learning by working ceaselessly and holding onto the handholding of her mentors and the team. She learned that success in her niche demanded significant time for groundwork and reading before actually starting any assignment.

Your comparison has to be only with your own self, and you have to work only towards being a better version of your own self."

This stimulating, constantly changing environment—devoid of monotony—is now both her challenge and her fuel. She reflects: "The moment you realize that you know something, you suddenly realize that there's so much more to know in that very field." For Charu, the work remains an ever-revolving field; every day feels like starting from scratch, demanding the intellectual rigor necessary to uphold the spirit of law across a vast and complex corporate empire.

The Crucible of Collective Excellence Charu's leadership philosophy within Reliance is anchored by the conviction that true strength lies in a collective ascent. She refuses to manage lawyers solely by output; instead, she acts as a meticulous sculptor of potential. Recognizing that some excel at research while others possess a flair for drafting, she targets individual strengths to develop well-rounded professionals. Crucially, she has architected a system where all roles are interchangeable, ensuring that organizational momentum is never stalled by a single absence.

This cohesion is rooted in a culture she deliberately fosters: the team works "in sync in harmony like a family," a rarity in the cutthroat legal field. She promotes constant dialogue, insisting that even a seemingly perfect document be reviewed collectively, because "four eyes are better than two eyes looking at a document." This human-centric approach extends to prioritizing the personal wellbeing of her team, ensuring they feel free to reach out.

Charu leads by quiet demonstration, asserting: "What they see you do is what they do," setting the benchmark for rigorous effort and humility.

Meticulous Oversight in the Fast Lane Navigating the high-stakes demands of a global enterprise requires more than legal knowledge; it demands mastery of flow and prioritization. Charu must constantly gauge urgency, a judgment call refined over two decades of experience. That long tenure has given her a priceless advantage: a foundational knowledge of the system, allowing her to have the necessary vision and timely access to resources.

She views meticulous oversight as a non-negotiable constant, rejecting the notion of fixed timelines for complex legal work. "We will revert asap" is the only promise she can make, balancing the need for perfection with the ever-present risk of exigencies.

To handle any sustained pressure, Charu practices deliberate self-management. "I just slip into my shoes and take a brief 10-minute walk before starting anything new." For Charu, the ultimate act of leadership is self-care, recognizing that "You need to look after your own self so that you are able to deliver what you need to."

The Unspoken Compact: Harmony and Humility Charu's leadership in her senior legal role is not an exercise in authority, but a masterclass in collective empowerment. That is the true strength of the culture she has fostered: an environment of harmony and trust that is rare in the competitive legal field. She rejects internal conflict and ensures every team member has equal exposure and opportunity. This rigorous professional standard is balanced by a "human touch" by being involved with her team members such that she is aware of what is happening in their lives to the extent it may impact their work.

Call to Perseverance As a powerful woman in leadership, Charu understands the unique balancing act to be managed by most professionals.

With the relentless and strong support of her family and friends, the balancing becomes a lot easier. "You have to delegate jobs that may not need your personal attention, recognizing your 'human limitations', accepting and addressing them instead of trying to be super human" she says.

She expresses deep pride in the strong turnout of women in top-order legal positions, noting that the struggles they overcome often instill a fiercer drive to deliver. Her advice to them is to focus on the long game: maintaining consistency for over 25 years demands resilience and fitness. She believes that if you strive to do your best consistently, success and opportunity will naturally follow.

The Mandate for the Next Generation Charu issues a pointed mandate to the young generation of lawyers, specifically addressing the modern tendency to seek shortcuts. She stresses that in their field, there is "no substitute for reading." She observes that many want the recognition but are unwilling to put in the necessary effort to walk that "extra mile," which is what truly differentiates a high-caliber professional.

Her most crucial piece of advice is a lesson in selfmastery: stop comparing yourselves to others. She views external competition as a distraction, urging young aspirants to focus solely on personal growth.

Her core belief, rooted in her own experience, is that chasing material results is a futile effort; instead, confidence by gaining experience through hard work should be the focus. "Follow work and everything else will follow," she advises, warning that if you chase numbers, "you will keep chasing them all your life and never be happy." She dismisses the idea that gender influences intellectual capability, stating firmly that in the professional world, there are only individuals with equal brains and abilities.

Navigating the AI Ethical Frontier For Charu, the most significant ethical challenge confronting legal leadership was the responsible integration of Artificial Intelligence. She believes that AI is a necessary and extremely useful tool that is here to stay. However, she was emphatic that AI was "not a substitute." The core ethical guardrail remained the meticulous run-through by a legal professional.

Nothing executed in a document could bypass the clear, critical scrutiny of human expertise; AI could augment speed, but never replace the judgment and integrity that comes with human intervention.

The Digital Backbone and Milestone Achievements

AI is an important tool but not a substitute for the human mind."

Charu attributed her team's ability to operate at a relentless pace not only to their skill but to robust support from IT team. She proudly notes the seamless nature of their systems, emphasizing that she hasn't faced a serious laptop crash or network glitch —a testament to the strong IT team. This digital stability enabled her department to achieve key professional milestones, such as being the first to digitize certain cross-border e-commerce and export documentations.

Her portfolio also demonstrates her impressive scope; beyond the core petrochemicals business, she oversees the diverse legal requirements of the organization's corporate social responsibility functions, large healthcare facilities and educational institutions, proving her adaptability across vastly different sectors.

Sustaining Performance with Humanity

The true anchor of leadership is calm composure."

To sustain high performance while championing employee well-being, Charu cultivated a culture rooted in trust and a sense of humor. She knew that while some days demanded working beyond normal hours, this was balanced by flexibility and a light atmosphere. She encourages her team to "share a light joke in context of the subject matter on hand." ensuring they "keep the atmosphere light because the matter itself is major enough." This sense of humor defuses tension.

The Unyielding Hunger and Final Affirmation Charu does not aspire to a monumental, self-defined legacy; she is guided instead by the simple, powerful ethic of unyielding effort. She insists that a leader must wake up with a "very strong desire to be able to do the best of everything" that comes their way. She rejects the idea of limits, stating: "The limits are what you will give yourself." Her ambition is to retain the "hunger" to learn and contribute to legal advisory for as long as her mind remains active. This extraordinary drive is only affirmed by her most profound personal achievement: her daughter looking at her and saying, "Mama, when I grow up, I want to be like you." That compliment validated the constant juggle of work, discipline, and motherhood.

Physical Resilience and the Looming Digital Threat Looking ahead, Charu identifies the Digital Data Protection Act (DPDP) as one of the most critical regulatory storm. With the Act in place but the necessary regulations absent, corporates face a 'very grey area' and high penalties, underscoring the legal field's need for persistent vigilance.

To sustain the active, sharp focus required for such challenges, Charu prioritizes physical well-being. She views exercise as a non-negotiable, ensuring her physical resilience directly supports her intellectual capacity.

Her long-term goal is to transition from the city to her farmhouse for consulting. However, until then, she maintains a solution-oriented approach, refusing to be tired and always ready, committed to her passion.

Stay in the known Subscribe to

Get INSIGHTS SUCCESS INDIA Magazine in print and digital format www.insightssuccessindia.com

A Young Prodigy –

Setting New Benchmarks in Neurosurgery

A

fter the universe itself, mirroring it, the human brain, with its billions of neurons, is the biggest puzzle in the universe. For decades, neurologists and neurosurgeons have been succeeding in solving some of its mysteries.

surgeries. Moreover, she is a pro in advanced techniques.

Techniques that go beyond improving patient outcomes, leading to shorter recovery times.

Especially, neurosurgeons are performing the most critical tasks of operating on those patients in critical need and saving millions of lives in the process. In this extraordinary league of some of the most recommended neurosurgeons of today, Dr Medha Vyas stands atop.

In a profession that demands precision of the highest degree, Dr Medha's firm commitment to compassionate patient care sets her apart. Acknowledging the emotional as well as physical toll of neurosurgical conditions, she puts her maximum effort into ensuring holistic support.

Complemented by a talent for clear communication, her empathetic approach ensures patients and their families are well-informed and actively involved in their treatment decisions.

A highly skilled young neurosurgical prodigy, Dr Medha Vyas, with an MBBS and a DNB in Neurosurgery, has rapidly earned a reputation for being an example to follow for many. Achieving her top place as a graduate at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital in New Delhi, Dr Medha began her career by learning and laying the technical groundwork before her rapid rise in the neurosurgical world today.

Surgical Mastery and Innovation Dr Medha holds a success rate of over 95%. As such, she has executed over 1000 brain and spine surgeries successfully. She has far-reaching experience. It is shared with her clear precision. It has made her an expert in handling difficult cases. She is particularly acclaimed for her proficiency in minimally invasive brain and spine

18 | Insights Success India

A Patient-Centered Approach

Passion for Pediatric Neurosurgery Pediatric neurosurgery holds a special appeal for Dr Medha in her heart. She is dedicated to this niche, to improving the lives of young patients. Be it in congenital anomalies or the area of traumatic injuries, her acumen and expertise cover a wide array of conditions. Affirming her position at the top, her in-demand specialty, along with her devotion to technical excellence and her compassionate and holistic care, continues to make a significant impact on her patients and the broader field of neurosurgery.

Powerful Women Leaders to Follow in 2025

“

Through surgical care, teaching, and research, I aim to advance safe practices and improve patient outcomes—especially in underserved populations.

Dr Medha Vyas Neurosurgeon

December, 2025

Her special interests now extend to skull base surgery, neurooncology, and pediatric neurosurgery, where she continues to refine her skills, particularly with endoscopic and minimally invasive methods.

Strategic Decision-Making and Ethical Care Dr Medha's approach to complex cases is defined by a rigorous, patient-first methodology. "I combine clinical evidence, multidisciplinary input, and patient preferences to make wellinformed, individualized decisions," she explains.

This process, she says, always involves carefully weighing risks against potential quality-of-life outcomes. This dedication to thoughtful, comprehensive planning extends to her use of technology.

The Driving Force: A Philosophy of Precision and Empathy

Rather than adopting new tools for their own sake, she integrates advanced imaging, neuromonitoring, and minimally invasive instruments only when they offer a tangible patient benefit, ensuring their safe adoption through thorough training.

The Heart of Her Practice

What initially set Dr Medha on her remarkable path was the intricate challenge of her field. "The complexity of the nervous system and the potential to make a profound impact on patients' lives attracted me," she explains. This early inspiration, coupled with her rigorous training, solidified her commitment to a practice guided by clear, core principles: precision, empathy, patient safety, and evidence-based care. This patient-first approach is the bedrock of her work, a sentiment she powerfully articulates: "I treat every patient as I would my own family."

An Evolving Approach to Modern Neurosurgery Dr Medha's practice is a testament to continuous improvement. Over time, her approach has evolved to integrate a more holistic perspective, blending technical excellence with crucial soft skills. She has been an early adopter of minimally invasive techniques and advanced imaging, which allow for more efficient and safer surgical outcomes.

This focus on cutting-edge technology and a balanced approach—encompassing both communication and compassion—ensures that her patients receive the highest standard of modern care.

20 | Insights Success India

At the core of her practice is an unwavering commitment to the patient's well-being and understanding. Dr Medha ensures a patient-centered approach by simplifying complex medical jargon and using visuals to promote clarity.

She actively involves families in shared decision-making, which she believes is crucial for building trust. This commitment to transparency and communication also informs her ethical considerations.

"I prioritize transparency, autonomy, and dignity in care," she states, noting that these principles are essential when addressing critical issues like informed consent and end-of-life decisions.

Through this blend of clinical rigor, technological savvy, and profound empathy, Dr Medha continues to set a new standard in neurosurgery.

A Balanced Life, a Bold Vision Dr Medha Vyas navigates the immense professional demands of neurosurgery by prioritizing her well-being. She attributes her ability to thrive in high-pressure situations to a combination of fitness, mindfulness, and the strong support of her family. She believes that setting clear personal and professional boundaries and maintaining a strong sense of purpose are essential for longterm success and resilience.

Her vision for the future of neurosurgery is equally ambitious. She foresees major advancements driven by AI, robotics, and neuroregeneration, which will lead to more personalized and safer patient care. However, she is keenly aware of the current challenges, particularly the limited access to quality neurological care in many areas. Her solutions are practical and impactful: strengthening referral systems and investing in training and infrastructure.

Legacy Through Mentorship and Contribution Mentoring the next generation of neurosurgeons is a cornerstone of Dr Medha's professional life. She guides residents through hands-on training, case discussions, and academic support, consistently emphasizing the values of humility, lifelong learning, and deep respect for patients.

She understands that a surgeon's skill is only as valuable as their character.

Ultimately, Dr Medha's greatest contribution to the field is her holistic approach to medicine—one that extends beyond the operating room. Through her surgical expertise, teaching, and research, she is dedicated to advancing safe practices and improving patient outcomes, with a special focus on serving underserved populations. She is not just a skilled surgeon but a compassionate leader and a visionary who is actively shaping a more equitable and advanced future for neurosurgery.

December, 2025

The Champion of Sight –

Preeti Sharma Dr

The Visionary Who Fights for the Future of Every Child's Eyes

The Stories Within Dr Preeti Sharma In Charge of Paediatric Optometry and Faculty of Binocular Vision

Dr Shroff's Charity Eye Hospital (SCEH)

T

he human pair of eyes is the brain's virtual screen through which its conscious mind comes alive into being a body and sees everything. Yet, in the ever-progressive digital times, this, one of the most essential organs, is getting damaged, and damaged early because of an increasing menace. From the very beginning of her optometry training, Dr Preeti Sharma noticed this menace – how children struggled with vision issues like myopia, strabismus, and binocular vision problems — many linked to growing digital screen exposure. "I kept asking myself: if vision is compromised so early, what does it mean for a child's learning, confidence, and future?"

That question became her motivation. In 2011, Dr Preeti joined 'Dr Shroffs Charity Eye Hospital (SCEH), where she found the opportunity to blend clinical practice, teaching, and research. Her involvement in Project Prakash with MIT, which studied visual development in children gaining sight after blindness, further deepened her commitment.

22 | Insights Success India

Powerful Women Leaders to Follow in 2025

Since then, Dr Preeti has worked to integrate prevention, awareness, and training into her career — from community events like the "Myopia Run" to mentoring over 500 fellows. "For me, every child deserves to see the world clearly, and my mission has been to make that possible," she says.

The Dual Anchor: Compassion and Excellence Dr Preeti's work at SCEH is guided by a philosophy that serves as her dual anchor: compassion with excellence. For her, eye care is not merely a service but a profound social responsibility. She operates on the core belief that quality healthcare should be a right, not a privilege, available to every child regardless of their economic background. This dual commitment sets SCEH apart. On one hand, the practice remains at the cutting edge of optometry and ophthalmology, integrating advanced diagnostics and evidence-based therapies. On the other hand, Dr Preeti ensures these world-class services are relentlessly pushed to the grassroots level, reaching children who would otherwise never receive specialty care.

This philosophy dictates every professional choice, from designing protocols for binocular vision therapy to mentoring fellows. "Compassion drives us to listen, understand, and care," she states, while "Excellence ensures that every solution we offer stands on strong clinical and scientific foundations." This commitment also creates a crucial multiplier effect through training; by empowering young optometrists with both knowledge and empathy, Dr Preeti ensures her mission is carried forward into countless communities.

Mastering the Digital Menace The challenge posed by the digital age—myopia progression and digital eye strain—demands aggressive adaptation. Dr Preeti counters this threat with a threepronged defense: continuous learning, research-driven practice, and proactive awareness. At SCEH, clinical protocols are never static. In the Myopia Clinic, this means integrating global best practices like orthokeratology and low-dose atropine therapy alongside lifestyle counseling.

She maintains an active role in research and global

conferences to ensure her treatments are always forwardlooking.

Equally critical is the training strategy. Dr Preeti instills in her mentees that they are "not just treating today's patients, you are preparing for tomorrow's challenges." During the pandemic, this agility allowed her programs to swiftly pivot to virtual case discussions and remote therapy models. Her third pillar involves direct public outreach through school screenings and the "Myopia Run," actively combating the misconception that vision problems are inevitable. By embedding adaptability into the DNA of SCEH, Dr Preeti ensures that both her patients and her profession are prepared for the evolving challenges of the digital future.

The Partner in Learning: Mentoring the Next Wave Dr Preeti Sharma views leadership in healthcare not as commanding, but as enabling. Having mentored over 500 fellows and students, her approach to building the next generation is founded on three core values: curiosity, confidence, and compassion. She aggressively nurtures curiosity, pushing her trainees to question the 'why' behind every condition, transforming every patient encounter into a unique research opportunity. Confidence is instilled through ownership; she deliberately assigns real responsibility early, allowing them to conduct assessments and design therapy protocols under close guidance. This creates a powerful sense of accountability, enabling them to handle complex cases independently.

December, 2025

The "Myopia Run," for instance, was a clever campaign that disguised a profound public health message within a community event: myopia is preventable, and lifestyle changes work. School screenings remain a cornerstone, taking care directly of children to uncover hidden issues where a child struggling academically might need corrective therapy. This approach ensures that when parents leave SCEH, they carry forward a culture of daily preventive counseling—covering screen time, outdoor activity, and nutrition. This continuity, she insists, is the most sustainable impact she can create for the future generation.

The Augmented Optometrist: Technology as Partner In Dr Preeti's department, technology is not just a tool; it is a vital partner in the fight for vision. This partnership drastically enhances accuracy and patient experience. In diagnostics, advanced imaging systems and digital platforms supplement classic tools like the synoptophore, allowing the team to detect subtle issues—from corneal changes to oculomotor dysfunctions—with objective, longterm data. This early, precise detection is crucial in the battle against myopia progression.

Most importantly, she emphasizes compassion. Technical skills create a good professional, but empathy makes a great one. Dr Preeti constantly reminds her fellows that behind every clinical report is a child with hopes and dreams. She serves less as a traditional teacher and more as a partner in learning, fostering an environment where she also learns from their fresh perspectives. "For me, mentoring is about creating ripples," she explains. If each trainee impacts even a hundred lives, the collective effect becomes immeasurable—the true legacy she hopes to leave behind.

The biggest shift, however, is in therapy. Traditional, repetitive exercises often bore children, leading to noncompliance. Dr Preeti solved this by adopting gamified vision therapy software and VR-based exercises. These interactive tools boost engagement significantly, transforming tedious sessions into activities children actually enjoy, thereby improving compliance and treatment outcomes dramatically. She insists, however, that technology is only an enabler; the "warmth of communication," the reassurance given to anxious parents, and the motivation offered to young patients "cannot be automated." Her approach at SCEH is a powerful synergy: cutting-edge technology blended with compassionate care.

The Sustainable Cure: Building a Culture of Prevention

Leaders as Ripples: Fostering Growth

For Dr Preeti, sustainability in healthcare means creating systems that prevent disease long before it escalates into a crisis. In pediatric optometry, this means making preventive care the ultimate form of sustainability—stopping myopia progression and detecting binocular issues early to save children from a lifetime of struggle. Her awareness programs serve as the crucial bridge between clinical science and society.

Dr Preeti believes that training is the most sustainable form of healthcare. She fosters growth by creating an open environment where curiosity is nurtured and no question is too ambitious. Skill development is holistic, balancing theory, hands-on practice, and research, ensuring fellows are exposed to protocol design and data analysis, not just clinical cases.

24 | Insights Success India

For me, every child deserves to see the world clearly, and my mission has been to make that possible."

The key to empowerment is ownership. She assigns trainees to lead initiatives, whether presenting at a workshop or coauthoring research, transforming them from passive learners into active contributors. By connecting them with international experts, she ensures their perspective is global.

"I aim to create leaders, not followers," she states. The ripples of technical expertise, empathy, and innovation that her fellows carry into the world are the true measure of her legacy.

engaging child-friendly digital exercises were swiftly deployed, ensuring continuity.

The Pandemic Pivot: Ingenuity in Crisis

The Visionary Horizon: Routine Care and Global Leadership

The greatest test of the SCEH team's resilience came during the COVID-19 pandemic. Pediatric eye care relies heavily on hands-on interaction and physical therapy, which lockdowns immediately stopped. Instead of paralyzing, the crisis became a catalyst for transformation.

The team rapidly reimagined care delivery remotely. They launched teleconsultations to guide parents on home-based exercises and designed simplified physical therapy kits used under virtual supervision. What started as a survival mechanism evolved into a permanent, highly accessible model for remote care. This adversity confirmed Dr Preeti's belief that resilience is about transforming challenges into opportunities, a powerful victory born from the ingenuity and strong teamwork of a mission-driven department.

The Forge of Resilience: Adversity as Catalyst The gravest threat to Dr Preeti's mission came not from a new disease, but from the COVID-19 pandemic. The sudden halt of in-person treatments threatened to undo progress for children with myopia and binocular vision issues. But this adversity became a test of the team's ingenuity. Instead of yielding, they pioneered teleconsultations, training parents virtually to become active partners in care. Customized therapy kits and

This period of crisis proved to be a powerful forge: children maintained their progress, families became empowered, and the institution discovered innovative remote care models.

What could have been a period of regression became one of resilience and growth, introducing systems that remain integral to making care more accessible today.

Dr Preeti's gaze is now fixed on an ambitious, deeply personal future: to make early eye care as routine in India as vaccinations. Her vision is to ensure comprehensive eye screening becomes part of standard healthcare for every child, preventing developmental years from being lost to avoidable issues.

To achieve this, she aspires to scale training programs, creating fellowship hubs to decentralize expertise away from urban centers. Globally, she sees India becoming a leader in pediatric vision science, deepening collaborations like Project Prakash to share insights with the world.

Technology remains central, with Dr Preeti ensuring that AI-assisted diagnostics and tele-optometry are adapted for cost-effective, broad community use. Her dream is simple: no child, anywhere in the world, should be held back by a vision problem that can be solved with timely and compassionate care.

December, 2025

Shaping a New Era

26 | Insights Success India

Industry Insights

How

Women Innovation Are Driving

And

Shaping the

Future

F

or many years, the world of invention and big ideas was mostly a man's space. Today, that picture is changing fast. Women are stepping up, breaking records, starting companies, and solving some of the hardest problems we face. They are not waiting for permission; they are building the future with their own hands.

Breakthroughs in Science and Medicine In science and medicine, women are saving lives in ways we could only dream of a few decades ago. Dr Katalin Karikó spent years studying mRNA, a piece of genetic code that tells cells what to do. Almost everyone ignored her work or said it would never succeed. She kept going. That stubborn belief became the foundation for the COVID-19 vaccines that protected billions of people. Today, young girls see her story and understand: one woman who refuses to give up can change the world.

December, 2025

Building Billion-Dollar Businesses In business, women are starting companies at record speed.

Sara Blakely took $5,000 and an idea for better underwear and created Spanx, a brand worth over a billion dollars.

Whitney Wolfe Herd built Bumble, a dating app where women make the first move, and became the youngest woman ever to take a company public. These stories are not just about money; they show that women can spot needs, take risks, and lead teams just as well as anyone else.

Opening Doors in Technology Even in areas that used to feel closed to women, doors are flying open. Reshma Saujani started Girls Who Code because she saw almost no women in computer classes.

Today, millions of girls have learned to write code because of her work. Teenagers like Gitanjali Rao invent tools to clean water or detect bullying online. They are growing up believing they belong in labs and garages, not just watching from the outside.

into a lesson millions of young artists now follow. Serena Williams showed that mothers can come back stronger and win Grand Slams while raising a family. Young athletes and musicians watch them and believe their dreams have no limits.

Facing Barriers, Breaking Them Anyway None of this is easy. Women still earn less money for the same work in many places. They get less funding when they start companies. Mothers often carry most of the housework and childcare. Yet every year, more women say “enough” and find ways around the barriers. They lift each other, share money and advice, and keep pushing forward.

A Better World for Everyone The result is a world that looks fairer and works better.

When women join the table, we get vaccines faster, cleaner oceans, safer apps, stronger music, and better sports.

Different voices bring different ideas, and different ideas make life better for everyone.

Leading the Fight for the Planet Building the Future Together Women are also changing how we think about the planet.

Dr Katharine Wilkinson helps large companies cut their pollution. Farmers in Kenya follow advice from Wangari Maathai's Green Belt Movement and plant millions of trees.

Simple ideas started by women are cooling the earth one village and one forest at a time.

The future is not something that will happen to us. It is something we build together. Right now, women all over the world are picking up tools, writing code, running companies, planting trees, and raising the next generation.

They are not asking for a seat at the table anymore, they are building new tables, bigger and stronger than before.

Redefining Entertainment and Sports This is the new era, and women are the ones shaping it.

In entertainment and sports, women are rewriting the rules, too. Taylor Swift turned her fight for ownership of her music

28 | Insights Success India

Rachna Sarup The Conscious Innovator of Sustainable Fashion

The Stories Within Rachna Sarup Co-founder and CEO

B77 TechStyles Pvt Ltd

I

n a time when profit-centered corporations frequently prioritize wealth creation over planetary health, Rachna Sarup, Co-founder and CEO of B77 TechStyles Pvt Ltd, is an inspiring leader who is making a real difference. The seed for her innovative business started with a revelation and an uncomfortable fear, explored further during the COVID-19 pandemic.

After two decades in the apparel industry, Rachna was jolted awake after watching documentaries related to the industry and discovering that the fashion industry is the second-largest global polluter.

This shocking awareness instilled an urgency within her that made her feel a great moral obligation to act.

Rachna started working with ethical consumer market research and identified a gap: consumers deeply wanted to change, but not if it was going to compromise their lifestyle.

Rachna's approach was both brilliant and simple: to provide sustainably produced fashion without sacrificing durability, fit, style, or comfort. It was the spark for B77 and for seamlessly realizing 3D technology in the design process, specifically for the age-old issue of fitment. This innovation engenders a harmonizing, compelling desire for a more sustainable wardrobe. B77's positive momentum reflects Rachna's conviction that she is taking action on an important issue in fashion that shows sustainable fashion can have meaning for a modern consumer, be a sustainable choice, and be sought. Rachna Sarup doesn't just sell clothes; she sells a conscience, and a way to demonstrate that purpose and profit can—and must—coexist.

30 | Insights Success India

Powerful Women Leaders to Follow in 2025

The Accidental Fashion Pioneer Rachna's initial foray into the high-speed world of apparel was not premeditated; she often notes she became part of the industry "by default, not plan." Yet, she quickly found her footing, captivated by the thrill of creativity, the dynamism of colors, and the sheer speed and detailing required to stay ahead of fleeting trends. This early passion for the aesthetic soon deepened into a commitment to a greater impact: seeing her work as a vehicle for empowering others, providing crucial employment and growth opportunities. Today, her motivation has undergone a profound transformation, moving beyond aesthetics and employment to a mandate to redefine the entire sector. At B77, the mission is now monumental. Rachna asserts: "It's time to redefine fashion, one sustainable garment at a time."

The company's work transcends commerce: "At B77, we're not just stitching clothes, we're weaving a movement towards a more conscious future." This clarity of purpose, born from two decades of experience, positions her as a true visionary committed to both style and planetary health.

profound understanding of client needs, recognizing that "Building and maintaining a positive relationship with customers is imperative." For B77, the true essence of the brand lies in identifying customers' "points of discomfort and working towards adaptable solutions." This requires ongoing interaction across geographies, regular feedback, and the immediate incorporation of insights back into the development process. This constant exchange ensures that B77's sustainable products consistently meet modern expectations for durability and fit. Because technology, particularly the 3D fitting solutions, is so integral to B77's approach, this process of evolution has become both

The Cohesive Force of Success The remarkable emergence of B77 as a leading enterprise is a testament to a guiding philosophy that extends far beyond typical business metrics. Rachna emphasizes that the company's steady growth is built on a strong foundation of shared vision, collaborative teamwork, and unwavering ethics, coupled with a dedication to continuous learning and updating.

These principles unite the team, driving their collective mission to make sustainable fashion a reality. However, Rachna insists that the internal culture holds a vital "spice"—the incorporation of trust and fun into the entire teamwork structure. For Rachna, success requires more than just professional principles; it demands a cohesive, supportive force, a belief distilled into the powerful organizational mantra: "unity stitches success." By fostering an environment rooted in trust, empowerment, and continuous improvement, Rachna ensures B77 is equipped not just to meet the industry's critical ethical challenges but to lead the sustainable future with joy and conviction.

The Fast-Paced Engine of Customer Evolution Rachna ensures B77 remains adaptable and ahead of industry trends by centering her strategy entirely on the customer. She views the company's evolution as a continuous process fueled by relentless research and a

December, 2025

"seamless and fast-paced." By committing to this cycle of listening, feedback, and technological integration, Rachna has built an organization that doesn't merely keep up with the market but actively anticipates and meets the modern consumer's demand for high-quality, sustainable alternatives without compromise.

The Democratic Courage of Trust Rachna's visionary leadership style is recognized as a key inspirational force behind B77's achievements. Her approach is rooted in the belief that leadership is a natural trait that must then be "nurtured through experience." This conviction leads to her fundamental requirement for any aspiring leader: to "work before one takes on the responsibility of a leader." This helps individuals gain valuable insight into the "needs and challenges of different teams and individuals," allowing them to truly understand the requirements from the perspective of both a doer and a strategist.

Rachna describes her own personal style as a unique blend of democratic and laissez-faire management. This blend is built on unwavering trust, teamwork, and the faith of building together. This philosophy sometimes means she must "get vulnerable with decisions made by a team member," allowing space for team autonomy. However, she sees this vulnerability as the truest test of a leader's character and maturity—the ability to "stand by someone else's decision and create a positive mark, even when it's not necessarily my own." This remarkable courage to trust fully empowers her team. It sustains B77's agile, innovative spirit, creating an environment where responsibility is deeply shared and the company can move quickly with collective confidence.

Sustainability is the Brand's DNA For Rachna Sarup and B77 TechStyles, the integration of ethics and business is absolute: "At B77, sustainability isn't just a value - it's our DNA." She has architected the brand's entire existence as a seamless ecosystem that integrates design, production, and consumer engagement, powered by cutting-edge technology and innovative materials. This means every decision, from the choice of eco-friendly materials to the implementation of circular processes, is woven with environmental responsibility in mind. Rachna emphasizes that their definition of sustainability is holistic, focused not only on resources but on people, and crucially, on minimizing waste at every single stage while improving landfill quality. For her, the company serves a higher purpose than commerce alone. "We believe our brand isn't just a label - it's a movement towards a healthier planet, one thread at a time," she states, positioning B77 as a driving force in conscious consumption. This unwavering commitment ensures that their mission remains impactful and globally relevant.

At B77, our goal is to build a brand that prioritizes doing right by the planet and people,making sustainability the new standard for fashion globally.”

32 | Insights Success India

Technology: The Waste-Minimizing Partner Rachna's strategy sees technology as the most essential tool for achieving her sustainability goals. She positions tech as a "true partner in minimizing waste and overconsumption."

By leveraging data-driven solutions, B77 makes informed decisions across its entire operational spectrum, from optimized inventory management to sustainable design protocols. A hallmark of this innovation is the introduction of features like virtual try-ons, which directly reduces the need for over-sampling and drastically lowers product returns—a major source of waste in the fast-fashion industry. Furthermore, B77 extends its ethical mandate to its external supply chain. The company partners with delivery providers that utilize AI tools to optimize routes for the fastest and most efficient deliveries, directly contributing to the reduction of carbon emissions. These partners are also actively transitioning their fleets to Electric Vehicles (EVs), underscoring Rachna's commitment to minimizing environmental footprint beyond her own production facilities.

The Culture of Trust, Empathy, and Inclusion The true cornerstone of B77's ability to execute this highlevel strategy is its workforce. Rachna ensures her leadership fosters a highly supportive, personalized approach where every interaction is built on trust, empathy, and inclusion. She prioritizes robust training and guidance to empower each team member, which collectively drives a resilient culture of collaboration, innovation, and growth.

By intentionally valuing individual perspectives and strengths, she creates an environment where everyone can thrive. Rachna understands that in a mission-driven company, the people must feel connected to that mission.

This supportive work culture ensures that her team is highly motivated and aligned with the company's core goal of making the world a better, more sustainable place—one thread, and one empowered team member, at a time.

Triumph Over Adversity and Resilience Rachna's journey as an entrepreneur has consistently tested her resolve. She maintains that her enduring belief in herself, her team, and her creative vision has provided the necessary "energy and resilience to keep moving forward."

She vividly recalls a particularly difficult phase when one of B77's major buyers declared bankruptcy. This catastrophic event left the company with goods trapped in the warehouse and no immediate financial solution, creating immense uncertainty. Yet, the team rallied, fueled by the "unwavering

support of our family and team." They successfully navigated the crisis, a testament to their collective determination. Even today, a challenge persists in the industry: proving that their deliberate, steady process of growth, built on a strong base, is superior to the fleeting success driven solely by sales numbers. Rachna firmly stands by her foundational strategy, recognizing that true success is about durability and structure, not just speed.

Beyond Gender: The Code for Future Entrepreneurs As an experienced leader, Rachna views entrepreneurship as the "key driver of any economy's growth," providing vital job creation and innovation. When advising aspiring founders, especially women, she insists that "leadership should be beyond gender." She challenges the common myth that passion alone guarantees success, stating that "passion alone is overrated - passion with vision leads to mission." To execute that mission, a leader must possess resilience, unwavering "complete faith and belief in self, integrity in whatever path they choose, and most of all, patience." This advice is critical in the hyper-competitive, people-driven fashion industry. Rachna encourages women entrepreneurs to embrace these qualities, secure in the knowledge that strategy, creativity, and execution are the true determinants of success.

The Global Standard: Pioneering Fashion's Next Revolution Looking to the future, the vision for B77 is clear: to become a global sustainable brand that redefines fashion across a wide range of styles, categories, and materials. This is a purpose-driven mandate committed to making sustainable fashion a stylish, mainstream alternative for every individual. Rachna plans to pioneer revolutionary technology integration to achieve this. This includes advanced features on their website, such as a "trial room feature with heat mapping" to perfect fitment, and the groundbreaking "SKU carbon footprint tracking" system, which gives consumers transparent data on the environmental cost of their purchase. The goal is not incremental improvement, but complete transformation.

Rachna states that their ambition is to build a brand that prioritizes "doing right by the planet and people," with the ultimate goal of making "sustainability the new standard for fashion globally." This bold, tech-forward vision solidifies her position as a leader determined not just to participate in the sustainable movement but to lead its technological revolution.

December, 2025

Bold Steps, Big Impact

34 | Insights Success India

Industry Insights

Spotlight on Creating Meaningful Change

I

n a world that still has a long way to go for true equality, a new wave of women is refusing to wait for permission. They are starting businesses, leading movements, and solving problems in ways that touch millions of lives. These women come from different countries, backgrounds, and ages, but they share one thing: they take bold action and create real change.

have gone on to win national tech awards and land jobs at big companies. One of them even built an app that helps farmers sell crops directly to buyers. Amina's goal is clear: “By 2030, half of Nigeria's coders should be women. We are on our way.”

From Village Classroom to National Change

In India, 29-year-old Priya broke the silence around mental health in a country where many families still hide it. She created a podcast and an anonymous text helpline that speaks in local languages. Young people can message “I'm not okay” and talk to a trained listener within minutes. In two years, the service has helped over 80,000 people. Priya herself lives with anxiety and speaks openly about it.

“When I share my story,” she says, “someone else feels less alone. That is the real medicine.”

Nadia, a 28-year-old teacher from rural Pakistan, saw girls in her village drop out of school after grade five because the nearest high school was too far and too expensive to reach.

Instead of accepting this, she started a simple bicycle program. She collected second-hand bikes, taught the girls how to ride, and created safe riding groups. Today, over 1,200 girls attend high school because of her work. What started with 12 rusty bicycles is now a registered organisation that partners with the government. Nadia says, “I didn't wait for big money or big titles. I just started with what I had.”

Turning Trash into Jobs and Clean Rivers In Kenya, 34-year-old Joy watched plastic waste pile up along rivers and beaches. She decided to do something about it. She founded a company that pays local women to collect plastic bottles. The plastic is cleaned, shredded, and turned into strong outdoor furniture and school desks. Her team of 60 women (most of them single mothers) now earn steady wages, and more than 200 tons of plastic have been removed from the environment. Big hotels and schools buy her products. Joy smiles and says, “We are not just cleaning the country; we are building dignity, one bottle at a time.”

Coding a Fairer Future for Girls At just 22, Amina from Nigeria has already taught over 15,000 girls how to code—for free. She noticed that tech clubs and competitions were full of boys and almost no girls. So she started weekend coding camps in community centres and mosques. She keeps it simple: old laptops, free online courses, and plenty of snacks. Many of her students

Mental Health Without Shame

Farming Smarter, Feeding More Maria, a 31-year-old farmer from Guatemala, refused to watch her community struggle with hunger when the rains failed. She learned about climate-smart farming online, then taught her neighbours how to build simple rainwater tanks and grow drought-resistant crops. Now, 400 families have better harvests and sell extra produce at the market. Maria's village used to depend on food aid. Today they send vegetables to the city. She laughs, “We went from begging for food to feeding others.”

The Common Thread None of these women waited for perfect conditions. They didn't have huge bank accounts, famous names, or government approval at the start. They saw a problem, felt the frustration, and took the first small step. That first step turned into movements, companies, and real hope for thousands of people.

Their message is simple: You do not need permission to create change. You need courage, a clear goal, and the willingness to start today. The world is changing, one bold woman at a time. And the best part? There is room for many more.

December, 2025

www.insightssuccessindia.com