As we celebrate International Women’s Day 2025 under the theme “Accelerate Action”, I am reminded of the immense potential women hold to transform industries, communities, and the world. As the CEO of a shared services organization, I have witnessed firsthand the power of women’s leadership, innovation, and resilience. Yet, I am also acutely aware of the barriers that still exist—barriers that demand urgent action to dismantle.
This year’s theme is a call to move beyond words and take concrete steps toward gender equality. It is a reminder that progress is not a passive process; it requires intention, effort, and collective action. In the shared services industry, where collaboration and efficiency are paramount, empowering women is not just a moral imperative—it is a strategic necessity.
Ancient Wisdom for Modern Empowerment
In the quest to accelerate action, we can draw inspiration from the timeless wisdom of Hindu scriptures. The Bhagavad Gita teaches us, “You have the right to work, but never to the fruit of work.” This profound teaching reminds us that our focus should be on action itself—on doing what is right, just, and necessary. For women in shared services, this means taking bold steps, embracing challenges, and leading with integrity, regardless of the obstacles.
The Devi Mahatmya, a sacred text celebrating the divine feminine, declares, “I am the power that sustains the universe. I am the energy that drives creation.” This verse encapsulates the essence of women’s strength and potential. In shared services, women bring this energy—this Shakti—to every role they undertake, from problem-solving to team building to driving innovation.
The Urgency of Accelerating Action
While we have made strides in empowering women, the pace of progress remains uneven. Women in the corporate world still face challenges such as unequal pay, limited access to leadership roles, and societal expectations that often force them to choose between career and family. To truly accelerate action, we must address these issues head-on.
- Closing the Gender Pay Gap: Ensuring equal pay for equal work is not just a matter of fairness; it is a matter of justice. Organizations must conduct regular pay audits and take corrective action where disparities exist.
- Breaking the Glass Ceiling: Women must have equal opportunities to rise to leadership positions. This requires mentorship programs, leadership training, and a commitment to diversity at all levels.
- Supporting Work-Life Balance: Flexible work arrangements, parental leave policies, and childcare support can help women balance their professional and personal responsibilities.
- Fostering a Culture of Inclusion: Inclusion is not just about policies; it’s about creating a culture where women feel valued, heard, and empowered to succeed.
Women as Catalysts for Change
In shared services space and the rest of the corporate world, women are not just participants; they are catalysts for change. Their unique perspectives, collaborative spirit, and problem-solving skills drive innovation and efficiency. As leaders, they bring empathy and resilience, creating teams that are not only high-performing but also compassionate and inclusive.
I have seen this transformative power in my own organization. Women leaders have introduced new processes, improved client relationships, and inspired their teams to achieve more. Their contributions are a testament to what is possible when we empower women to lead.
The Role of Men in Accelerating Action
Empowering women is not a task for women alone; it requires the active participation of men as allies, advocates, and partners. Men in leadership positions have a unique opportunity to challenge stereotypes, promote diversity, and create opportunities for women to thrive. By working together, we can accelerate action and create a more equitable future.
A Call to Action: What We Can Do Today
This International Women’s Day, let us commit to taking meaningful action to empower women in shared services and beyond. Here are some steps we can take:
- Invest in Education and Training: Provide women with the skills and knowledge they need to excel in shared services roles.
- Create Mentorship Programs: Pair women with mentors who can guide them in their careers and help them navigate challenges.
- Celebrate Women’s Achievements: Highlight the contributions of women in shared services and inspire others to follow in their footsteps.
- Advocate for Policy Changes: Push for policies that support gender equality, such as equal pay, parental leave, and flexible work arrangements.
Inspiring the Next Generation
As we accelerate action, we must also look to the future. The next generation of women in shared services will inherit the world we create today. Let us ensure that it is a world where they can thrive—a world where their potential is recognized, their voices are heard, and their dreams are within reach.
The Tamil poet Avvaiyar once said, “What you have learned is like a handful of sand; what you have yet to learn is like the sand on the shore.” There is still so much to learn and achieve in the journey toward gender equality. But with every action, we move closer to a world where women in shared services—and every field—can reach their full potential.
A Message to Women in Shared Services (corporate world)
To the women in shared services: You are the architects of change, the bearers of Shakti, and the heart of our industry. Your strength, wisdom, and resilience inspire us all. This Women’s Day, let us celebrate you and recommit to building a future where every woman can shine.
Let us accelerate action—not just today, but every day—until equality is not just a goal, but a reality.
Happy International Women’s Day 2025!
