Akriti’s inclusive leadership principles
Akriti, 21, takes on the role of Acting Head of Corporate Affairs and Brand & Marketing at Standard Chartered Bank Nepal. Akriti used this opportunity to learn about the type of leader she wants to be and how she can support other girls through her own career.
“We can’t wait for opportunities; we must actively seek them, and when they aren’t readily available, let’s create them. Let’s empower ourselves and each other and build a world where gender doesn’t limit our potential. It’s a journey worth embarking on, and together, we can make it happen.”
This was the rallying cry from 21-year-old girls’ rights activist, scholar, and dental assistant Akriti, from Bardiya, Nepal, who stepped into the role of Acting Head of Corporate Affairs and Brand & Marketing at Standard Chartered Bank Nepal. Akriti used this opportunity to learn about the requirements of a leadership position, positive and inclusive professional leadership principles, and how she can incorporate these into her career to support other girls and strive for a more equal future.
Akriti brought to the role enthusiasm, a readiness to lead, fresh ideas, and a vision for the future.
Akriti shared, “Skills and opportunities are the foundation of a brighter future for young girls like me. They open doors, break barriers, and empower us to reach for our dreams. It’s not just about landing a job; it’s about creating our path through entrepreneurship. Every skill we acquire, every opportunity we seize, is a step towards our independence and a stronger, more inclusive society.”
As she takes the reins, she echoes the words of her predecessor, Harsha Pillai, “Together, let’s build a community of women who support, empower, and inspire each other.”
“Every skill we acquire, every opportunity we seize, is a step towards our independence and a stronger, more inclusive society.”
Akriti
Skill-building and dedication
Akriti’s story didn’t begin here. By 21, Akriti, through a combination of determination and skill-building has and continues to carve a unique path towards a future filled with professional possibilities, both for herself and other girls and young women.
Atriti’s unwavering pursuit of excellence and her commitment to personal and professional growth means she is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in education, and her thirst for knowledge led to 390 hours of dental lab assistance training under the Promoting Economic Empowerment of Adolescents for Resilient Livelihood project, supported by Standard Chartered’s Future Makers initiative.
Advocacy and professional leadership
Akriti isn’t just a student; she’s an advocate for positive transformation within her community. Akriti engages in many awareness activities as a member of Champion of Change, a community programme fervently striving to end child marriage and eliminate harmful societal practices.
Combined with her dedication to education and advocacy, Akriti aspires to explore the world of entrepreneurship and technical skills that will enable her to become a leader of the future. Akriti understands that it is through a combination of advocacy and professional leadership that she can create the most significant impact within her community. Her dream is to see gender equality become a driving force in transformative businesses.
Building an inclusive, dignified workplace
Taking over Harsha’s role as Acting Head of Corporate Affairs and Brand allowed Akriti to gain firsthand insights into the world of corporate affairs and brand marketing.
During this event, Akriti not only had the chance to observe the inner workings of a corporate setting but also actively engaged with female staff members and leaders within the organisation. This provided her with a comprehensive understanding of how an inclusive and supportive work environment is created, and how it benefits everyone involved.
One key aspect that Akriti was curious to explore was the provision of a dignified workplace. She learned about the availability of menstrual products in the office and the policies that support female employees in their unique needs, underlining the importance of gender-inclusive workspaces.
This included a visit to the daycare centre set up for the children of employees. It highlighted the organisation’s commitment to fostering a family-friendly atmosphere, a crucial aspect of creating a supportive and inclusive workplace, and for Akriti this was particularly enlightening.
She also got the opportunity to interact with heads of different departments, including sales and branch managers, which gave her a well-rounded view of how each component contributes to the organisation’s success.
In reflecting on Akriti’s time at Standard Chartered Bank Nepal, Harsha said, “I look at Akriti, and I’m in awe of her clarity and determination at just 21. When I was in my 20s, I was a bit lost, unsure of my path and my future. But here’s Akriti, with a clear vision and a mission for her future. She’s a shining example of the incredible potential and drive of the youth today. It’s a reminder that age is just a number, and we all have the power to create our destiny, no matter where we are in life.”
A girl in the medical field
Atriki started as a dental clinic assistant, where she excelled. Within months, her hard work and dedication resulted in a significant salary increase, from NPR 7,000 to NPR 12,000 (nearly 52$ to 93$).
But her success isn’t just about personal gain. Akriti combines her technical expertise with her passion for helping others. Akriti’s income is a lifeline for her family, supporting her parents and encouraging her younger sister to open her grocery shop.
Akriti is the first among young girls in her community to work in the medical field, she’s addressed as a “doctor” by the community.
This recognition has propelled her further. In two years, Akriti plans to study for her Certificate in Dental Science and set up her clinic near her village, so she can provide job opportunities to other girls and young women.
“Each step I take in my journey is a contribution to a brighter future, a symbol of the strength within us to shape our destiny.”
Akriti
Akriti’s exploration of diverse opportunities and her unwavering commitment to fostering gender equality and innovative entrepreneurship have inspired her friends, family, and local community. Her journey is one of inspiration and empowerment, reminding us that we all have the power to create our own destiny and change the world. Akriti’s vision is for a brighter, more equitable future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
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