The trailblazers of change

Sundeep Bhutoria writes about how women of Indian origin are shaping global politics and communities.

Women in politics have long exemplified resilience, vision, and leadership in the face of challenges. During my trips overseas, I had the privilege of meeting a few extraordinary women whose stories underscore the profound impact of Indian-origin women in global governance and community leadership. Their journeys reflect determination, inclusivity, and the transformative power of representation.

In a world where women encounter systemic barriers to leadership, figures like Kamala Harris, the former US Vice President, stand out as trailblazers. Kamala, with her South Asian and African-American heritage, represented a historic milestone. Her leadership highlighted the necessity of diverse voices in policymaking and would serve as an inspiration for future generations.

Similarly, Nikki Haley, former US Ambassador to the United Nations, and philanthropist Chandrika Tandon showcase the breadth of contributions Indian-origin women bring to political and civic domains. These pioneers exemplify a growing trend towards diversity in leadership, inspiring women globally.

Other influential leaders include Canada’s Anita Anand, who has served as Minister of National Defence, and Malaysia’s former Deputy Minister Kasthuri Patto, an advocate for human rights and gender equality. These figures bridge cultural and national divides, emphasising the importance of inclusive governance.

Among the women I met, Zeel Ahir’s story exemplifies a fusion of cultural heritage with progressive action. A member of the Artesia City Council in California, Zeel’s initiatives in mental health awareness within the South Asian diaspora address deeply rooted stigmas. Her expertise in counselling psychology and social work enables her to implement culturally sensitive resources that significantly improve community well-being. Zeel also advocates for environmental sustainability, launching initiatives to reduce plastic consumption and ban harmful fertilisers. Her leadership as Commissioner of Beautification and Maintenance showcases her commitment to creating inclusive community spaces. Shaped by her immigrant family’s values of service and education, Zeel’s journey underscores the importance of grassroots representation.

Jenifer Rajkumar’s election as the first South Asian woman to the New York State Assembly is another inspiring narrative. Overcoming her immigrant family’s challenges, Jenifer’s career as a lawyer, professor, and legislator highlights her dedication to justice and equity. Her advocacy for domestic workers’ rights and the establishment of New York’s first Asian-American and Pacific Islander Commission are testaments to her commitment to inclusivity. Jenifer’s successful campaign to recognise Diwali as a school holiday fosters cultural representation and belonging. Her grassroots engagement amplifies underrepresented voices, making her a transformative force in modern politics.

Across the Atlantic, Pam Gosal and Poonam Gupta exemplify Indian-origin women’s contributions in Europe. Pam, the first woman of Indian origin elected to the Scottish Parliament, champions economic development and education. Her initiatives support small businesses, especially those led by women and minorities, promoting resilience and equity. Entrepreneur Poonam Gupta’s work in sustainability has earned her recognition in UK-India relations. Her company, PG Paper Ltd, revolutionises waste management while balancing profitability with environmental responsibility. Poonam’s advocacy for mentorship and her multifaceted leadership inspire future generations of changemakers.

Preet Kaur Gill’s career as the first female Sikh Member of Parliament in the UK underscores the intersection of identity and leadership. Representing Birmingham, Edgbaston, Preet advocates for social justice and equity, focusing on public health, international development, and religious freedom. Her leadership in All-Party Parliamentary Groups and initiatives addressing systemic inequalities highlight her commitment to inclusive policymaking.

The achievements of these women reflect broader global trends. Leaders with multicultural backgrounds are uniquely equipped to address complex, cross-border challenges. Women of Indian origin bring a blend of heritage and modernity to their roles, enabling them to navigate diverse constituencies and advocate for transformative policies.

Priti Patel’s tenure as the UK’s first Indian Diaspora Champion and former Secretary of State for the Home Department exemplifies this dynamic. Her focus on economic reform and inclusivity in governance highlights the importance of diverse perspectives in shaping equitable policies.

Grassroots efforts further amplify the impact of Indian-origin women. Leaders like Seema Nanda, former CEO of the Democratic National Committee, have driven systemic change by bridging communities and governance. Innovators like Rashmi Sinha, co-founder of SlideShare, demonstrate how leadership intersects with technology, business, and civic engagement. Meanwhile, Kalpana Kotagal’s work as an attorney and co-author of the Inclusion Rider has set benchmarks for workplace equity and diversity.

Mentorship and education are vital in fostering female leadership. Initiatives like the Cherie Blair Foundation for Women empower female entrepreneurs worldwide, breaking cycles of poverty and underrepresentation. Women like Usha Rao-Monari, the UN Development Programme’s Associate Administrator, steer international policies towards equity and resilience, showcasing the profound influence of Indian-origin women on global development.

The underrepresentation of women in leadership persists, but these leaders’ stories prove that progress is attainable. Their journeys highlight the importance of opportunity, mentorship, and representation in overcoming systemic barriers. When women see others who share their heritage succeed, it fuels aspirations and broadens their horizons.

Leadership is about inspiring change, challenging norms, and building inclusive futures. The women I met, along with global icons like Kamala Harris, Niki Haley, Preet Kaur Gill, and others, prove that cultural identity and global vision can yield transformative results. Their achievements remind us that diversity in leadership is essential for addressing the complexities of today’s world.

As we reflect on their stories, we recognise the power of representation. These trailblazers inspire a future where leadership transcends gender and every voice has the opportunity to be heard.

(Sundeep Bhutoria is a columnist and author passionate about environment, education, and wildlife conservation.)