On March 8, 2025, Ashreeta Mohanty had the honor of hosting IASTEM’s Women’s Day Special Panel Discussion, Voices of Power: Women Leaders Inspiring the Next Generation Leaders, as a representative of IASTEM. The event featured an esteemed panel of speakers, including Prof. Beena Giridharan, Patricia Gakii, Dr. Bridget Irene, Prof. Ola Familoni, Dr. Mythilli Kolluru, Dr. Aarti Sharma, and Prof. Sripriya Sarathy. Together, they engaged in a thought-provoking discussion on the role of women in leadership and their impact on future generations.
The panelists emphasized the importance of mentorship, sponsorship, and networking opportunities in fostering female leadership. They also highlighted the necessity of addressing gender biases and promoting collaboration between men and women to create a more inclusive society. One particularly thought-provoking insight was that women are often conditioned to find joy in small gestures, reinforcing the need to challenge unconscious biases, build self-confidence, and recognize theirworth.
The discussion covered critical issues such as pay disparities, underrepresentation in professional fields, inheritance rights, objectification, and societal stereotypes. Reflecting on Swami Vivekananda’s words—"You don’t teach morals to a hungry person"—the panelists underscored the importance of addressing fundamental needs, such as economic independence and access to essential resources, as a foundation for empowerment. India’s digital advancements were also acknowledged as a significant tool in enhancing women’s safety and opportunities.
A recurring theme was the transformative power of education in spreading awareness, respect, and gender equality. One of the most impactful takeaways was the idea that "We cannot grow individually; we can grow collectively," reinforcing the importance of mutual support and shared progress.
More than just a discussion, this event served as a call to action—urging the need for more role models, greater awareness, and a stronger commitment to equality. Ashreeta Mohanty was proud to host this insightful discussion on behalf of IASTEM and left inspired by the powerful exchange of ideas and perspectives.
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