Childhood Chronicles: Anita Kotwani, SVP - New Business, Mindshare

Adgully and Discovery Kids speak to some well-known names in the M&E industry to relive their childhood days and share the experiences that have shaped them.

A prominent face in the media industry, Anita Kotwani’s experience in the industry spans across two decades. She has managed the media portfolios for several brands like consumer durables, financial services, FMCG and MNCs. She began her journey as a management trainee in Stratagem Media and now holds the role of Senior Vice President, New Business at Mindshare. She has been a part of the jury at various industry forums such as the EMVIES and the Goafest Media Abby. Kotwani completed her Bachelor’s in Law from Government Law College, Mumbai

With her unique brand of leadership she has transformed the Mindshare West business teams and led to remarkable growth of the business in her region. She has won several accolades but what motivates her to do her best is the stream of client appreciation her teams have acquired year after year. In her new role of New Business development she leads the mantle of driving the growth agenda for the agency. She has been instrumental in bringing in new clients, nurturing their ambitions and growth plans, ensuring that they are future ready for this dynamic changing eco-system.

A childhood memory which is unforgettable?

As a child my birthday was the most important day of my life. I would always have a fancy party thrown and my birthday dress would be sent by my brother from Dubai, every year. One such year the parcel got delayed and my dress did not reach on time, and I cried and cried despite my mom buying me a new one from India.

A childhood lesson you learnt that still motivates you?

Every time you fall down and hurt yourself, be strong enough to stand up again and play.

A hobby that you still have?

I love to read and continue doing so even today.

A person you looked up to or a mentor who shaped you as a person?

My Mom. She gave me the freedom and the wings to fly and do whatever my heart desires.

As a child, the one thing you and your friends used to do that children today no longer do?

We used to play some amazing games in our times which I don’t even think people talk about today like “Chor- Police” and “Atya Patya”.

What were the shows that you watched on television as a kid?

I rarely watched too much television back then as I used to be busy playing with friends.

When it comes to kids’ content, what do you think is the role of the broadcaster?

The broadcaster must ensure that the content that he puts out is safe for viewing; it should stimulate the child’s imagination and curiosity.

How do you see the evolution of kids’ content in India?

From having a one-hour slot for children on TV, back then, to having dedicated 24 hour channels for this genre, today, we have come a long way.

What are the 3 things from your childhood that you feel should return?

I believe in ‘Physical Play’ instead of ‘Tech Play’.

Social and Emotional Skills in the real world and not virtual world

Keep the child inside you alive.

How do you see children of today impacting buying decisions of the family?

Their opinions are valued and given importance; in fact at times they are the decision makers.

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