TravTalk India Online Magazine
Deliberate or unintentional, bias makes it difficult for women to move ahead. There is a need not just to admit the bias, but take action to provide a level-playing field for them. TRAVTALK speaks to six women who have not only blazed a trail for themselves, but are also the biggest cheerleaders for women across the country.
Hazel Jain
Imagine a gender equal world – a world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination. A world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive. A world where difference is valued and celebrated. Together we can forge women’s equality. Collectively we can all ‘Break the Bias’ – this year’s theme for International Women’s Day. There can’t be a more relevant theme for a country like India, where the boardroom is largely occupied by men. But women are making their presence felt.
Anju Tandon, CEO, Ark Travels, said, “The role women play in this industry has evolved just like in all other professions. We come across more and more women entrepreneurs today.”
Women must have conviction The subject of empowerment of women has been a burning issue all over the world, including India. Jyoti Mayal, Director, New Airways Travels (Delhi), believes that inequality between men and women is a universal phenomenon. “Woman for sure is a better organiser, better worker and can handle situations more effectively.” One must have inspirational goals for starters, said Meera Charnalia, Sr. Vice President and Head – MICE, Thomas Cook (India). “The process of internalising a leadership identity and developing a sense of purpose is the first step. It is very important to analyse yourself before being seen by others, to attain excellence in your career,” she added.
Excellence is a continuous pursuit Sharing some of her learnings, Payal Lugani, Associate Vice President – FIT PMT, SOTC Travel, said, “Excellence cannot be attributed to any one set of parameters, but I would say being driven by passion works better than being driven by success in the long run. Over the last 20 years I have realised that practising resilience allows us to overcome adversity and to come back stronger. Women must play to their strengths and focus on them to build a solid career that is satisfying.”
Sharing her idea of women empowerment, Anam Zubair, Associate Director of Marketing WeddingWire India, said that consistency, patience, hard work and an open mind towards learning are a few virtues that can help one climb the ladder.
Consistency is key Making inroads into the aviation sector, Payal Satish, Commercial Director, BLADE India, said, “I come from an industry that has as many women in leadership positions as men. Hospitality, travel and aviation have been industries where women have excelled and I am grateful to have learned from some of the best in the industry. I have learnt that showing up every day and getting the job done pays off.”
