Remembering Helen Achan: Advertising Trailblazer

Helen Achan, the advertising luminary who left an indelible mark on the industry, breathed her last on a Sunday. As the former Head of Media Planning at Lintas, her influence extended from 1965 to 1990, encompassing a transformative era. A beacon for women in the 1950s, Helen, alongside legends like Pearl Padamsee, Ketaki Gupta, and Roda Mehta, defied conventions. Her creative prowess and leadership paved the way for key industry shifts.

For almost five decades, Helen shaped advertising landscapes, guiding and training numerous media planners. Even after her formal association concluded in 2003, her impact endured. In 2004, the Emvies bestowed upon her the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award, a testament to her enduring legacy.

Her contributions resonate through the annals of advertising history. A pioneer who blazed trails and shattered ceilings, Helen Achan's journey stands as an inspiration for aspiring professionals, marking her not just a veteran but a guiding force in the evolution of an entire industry. May her legacy continue to inspire generations to come.