There’s a need to challenge traditional gender roles and expectations: Divisha Chaudhry

We, at Adgully, have always saluted and honoured women managers and leaders across diverse fields. Over the years, W-SUITE is a special initiative from Adgully that has been turning the spotlight on some of the most remarkable women achievers in the M&E, Advertising, Marketing, PR and Communications industry.

In conversation with Adgully, Divisha Chaudhry, Co-founder, Bevzilla, highlights the success of women entrepreneurs in the current market ecosystem, learning the value of resilience during the pandemic period, her most effective life lessons, and more.

Do you think the role and scope of women leaders have widened in the current market ecosystem?

Yes, I believe women entrepreneurs have indeed emerged more successfully in the current market ecosystem. Women founders are now more visible and influential, showcasing their capabilities as leaders in various industries. Despite the challenges facing a biased environment in start-ups, women have been seizing opportunities and bridging gaps as they arise. This has led to an increased recognition of women’s leadership potential and their significant contributions to the business world.

What has been your major learning from the pandemic period?

During the pandemic period, my major learning has been how to manage the challenges that arise in business, especially since I started my own venture amidst the lockdown. I have developed the skill of problem-solving and have learned to prioritise tasks effectively, addressing one thing at a time. Importantly, I have also learned the value of resilience and not getting upset when things don’t go according to plan. The pandemic has taught me to adapt and remain flexible in the face of uncertainty, which has been crucial for navigating the business landscape during such unprecedented times.

What is your mantra for maintaining a successful work-life balance in the new normal? According to you, what makes women the best in crisis management?

My mantra for maintaining a successful work-life balance is to plan and prioritise my tasks by creating a daily to-do list. By staying organised and ensuring that I complete my tasks promptly, I prevent them from piling up and overwhelming me. I have learned the importance of maintaining a work-life equilibrium, allowing me to avoid becoming too consumed by work. Over the past year and a half of running my business, I have mastered this skill.

Women excel in crisis management due to their innate talent for multi-tasking. They have the ability to juggle multiple responsibilities and handle various aspects of a crisis simultaneously. Women’s natural ability to think on their feet, remain composed under pressure, and effectively communicate and collaborate with others contributes to their success in managing crises.

What are the five most effective leadership lessons that you have learned?

I have realised some of the most effective life lessons being in a leadership position.

1. Prioritise and solve problems one at a time.
2. Embrace experimentation as an ongoing learning process.
3. Be strong, graceful, and unafraid when solving problems.
4. Walk away from situations that contradict your values.
5. Believe in yourself, respect yourself, and maintain confidence while avoiding self-criticism.

These values are now a very crucial part of who I am and what I practice.

Gender sensitivity and inclusion in the new normal – how can organizations effectively encourage and groom women leaders in challenging times?

As a young woman in business, Firstly, it is important to provide education and support to women, particularly in areas such as financial literacy and basics of running a business, enabling them to become self-reliant.

Secondly, organisations should strive to create a fostering environment that supports and empowers women, implementing policies that promote gender sensitivity and inclusion. Additionally, it is crucial to address sector-specific challenges and provide targeted resources and opportunities for women in industries that may be less women-friendly.

There is a need to challenge traditional gender roles and expectations, creating equal opportunities for career growth.