Vol. 03 | Issue 02 | 2024 www.theknowledgereview.in
omen
Most
Influential
President Founder, and Director, Feeling Samskar The Life School Minds
Leaders Shaping
India's Future
Vedic Vastu Expert, Geopathologist
Psychologist, Psychotherapist, Founder, and Director, Feeling Minds
Highlighting the Paragons of
Power of Women Excellence
A
s women leaders continue to ascend to positions of influence and authority, they catalyze positive changes in social norms, challenging traditional stereotypes. By advocating for policies that promote gender equity, investing in education and healthcare for women and girls, and championing initiatives that empower marginalized communities, these leaders foster a more inclusive and prosperous society for all. Their visionary leadership not only drives progress in the present but also lays the foundation for a more equitable and sustainable future for generations to come. In our special edition, “Most Influential Women Leaders Shaping India's Future,” The Knowledge Review celebrates the most influential women leaders who are shaping India's future. As we witness a transformative era
with women at the helm of leadership across various sectors, it becomes imperative to recognize and amplify their voices. The need for women leaders has never been more pressing. With their unique perspectives, diverse experiences, and unparalleled resilience, women leaders bring a different dimension to decision-making processes. Their leadership styles often emphasize collaboration, empathy, and inclusivity, which are crucial in navigating the complexities of today's world. The motive behind curating this edition is twofold. Firstly, it's a tribute to the remarkable achievements of these women who have shattered glass ceilings and blazed trails in their respective fields. Secondly, it's a call to action to acknowledge and support the continued rise of women leaders, recognizing the immense value they bring to society. In this edition, we delve into the stories, insights, and achievements of these extraordinary women leaders, celebrating their contributions and acknowledging the transformative power of women's leadership in shaping India's future. Have an engaging read!
Gopal In
gole
Editor’s Note
Articles 14
Building a Culture of Inclusion
Empowering Women in the Workplace
24
Championing Diversity
The Importance of Intersec onality in Women's Leadership
Profiles
22
CXO
Health Guardian and Immunity’s Best Friend
IMMUNO LIFE’s Commitment to Health and Wellness
08
18
Dr. Chinu Agrawal Promo ng Mental Well-Being with Efficacy
Dr. Jayshree Om
Harmonizing Ancient Wisdom with Modern Architecture
Ms Aruna Singh
28
Establishing a Holis c Educa onal Set-up in India
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MARCH, 2024
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Name of the Person
Dr. Chinu Agrawal
Dr. Jayshree Om
Ms Aruna Singh
Nishtha Gupta
Punam Gupta
Designation Psychologist, Psychotherapist, Founder, and Director of Feeling Minds® Vedic Vastu Expert and a Geopathologist, Heofon experience
President, Samskar-The Life School
Head of Sustainability, Bureau Veritas India Pvt. Ltd
Director, IMMUNO LIFE Pvt. Ltd
Brief Dr. Chinu seeks to create a brighter, healthier future where mental health is recognized and supported on a global scale. She has empowered thousands of individuals and professionals to prioritize mental well-being. Dr. Jayshree Om, a distinguished figure in the realm of Vedic Vastu and Geopathology, seamlessly integrates ancient wisdom with modern architectural practices. Ms Aruna aims to be a global beacon of transformative education, fostering resilience, skills, and values in students. she leads the institution with a vision of academic excellence intertwined with ethical and cultural values. Nishtha Gupta is a seasoned Sustainability Professional with over 15 years of expertise in Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives. Punam Gupta is a renowned name in entrepreneurship in India and globally. She completed her post-graduation with Computer Science and Food Nutrition, Mass Communication, Journalism, and LLB diplomas.
I
n this dynamic world, everyone is constantly chasing accomplishments and material objectives while undervaluing the power of a healthy body and mind. Today, it is clearly apparent that maintaining one's mental health is equally important as one's physical health. However, this was not the situation just a few years ago. At that time, leaders like Dr. Chinu Agrawal paved the way for the de-stigmatization of mental health and mental illness. Dr. Chinu Agrawal, Psychologist, Psychotherapist, Founder, and Director of Feeling Minds®, has excelled in transforming people's vision of mental health. Through her research based strategies, she brought a wave of awareness and healed many. She started with a strong desire to help people and a mission to use Psychology to transform people's lives and end their emotional pain. She saw the critical need for emotional education among Indian youth early in her career, as a senior professional in the training and development department of a prestigious university in Northern India. She firmly believed that providing academic instruction to children is insufficient; and so she felt that her team must be trained in critical coping mechanisms to help manage students daily stressors, emotional setbacks, and upsets. Over thirty-five thousand students in India are impacted by E-Cube, a program created for the Experiential Emotional Education. This experience spurred her investigation into mental health on a larger scale. Feeling Minds® was founded by her in 2016. Since then, her main goal has been to equip Mental Health Professionals (MHPs) with the necessary scientific instruments and techniques by training them in various evidence based therapeutic approaches. Dr. Agarwal also established a distinctive, scientifically based Career Guidance and Counseling program after realizing how important it was for school-age children to receive career guidance. Thousands of students have benefited from her scientific career counseling protocol,
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To be a pioneering force in the global field of Psychology, I envision a future where mental health and emo onal well-being are priori zed and accessible to individuals worldwide.
Most Influen al Women Leaders Shaping India's Future which helps students scientifically identify the best career to not only become successful but also happy & effective in both their personal & professional lives and job satisfaction. She has trained and certified more than 130 career counselors over the years, and these professionals now help students make educated career decisions both domestically and internationally. After seeing how important parents are to their children's emotional health, Dr. Chinu launched a Parenting Education program. Through this program, professionals gained the knowledge and scientific methods necessary to assist parents in meeting the emotional needs of their kids and developing stronger relationships with them. To date, Feeling Minds® has successfully certified over 120 Expert Parenting Educators. She set out to create the first-ever six-month relationship counseling certification program in India, motivated by the growing difficulties people in relationships face today. With three batches of certification and over 50 media outlets covering it, this program hopes to certify over 100 Relationship Consultants by the end of 2024. In 2022, KHDA, Dubai, approved Dr. Chinu and her team's Social Emotional Learning program due to their global efforts; the honorable president, Smt. Draupadi Murmu ji and the former president of India, Ramnath Kovind ji, acknowledged their contributions in succession. She is recognized as a leading expert on school mental health. This year, she was invited to address an international assembly of educators at the esteemed University of Cambridge.
A Kind Educator Dr. Chinu served as the founding member of Training & Development at the Sharda Group of Institutions (U.P.) for ten years. The institute offered courses in medical and management, eleven different engineering branches, B. Pharma, and other diplomas at its four campuses and fourteen colleges. As the Director of Education and Training, she observed that most graduates suffered from self-doubt, had a strong need for approval, were prone to get depressed, and some even had suicidal ideatime. She said a mental and emotional education deficit existed in families, schools, and society. She then started Suicide Prevention Groups, created and shared videos, held workshops, and organized events to raise awareness of mental and emotional health issues, reach outed to as many students as possible in higher education institutions and classrooms, and eventually reach the general public. Her determination to bring "Psychology to All" was sparked by this measure. Her constant concern was ensuring that the lessons and research revealed by psychology reached the people who were meant to benefit from them, not just those who could write thesis and dissertations. Her vision led her to found Feeling Minds®, which offers exceptional psychology-based training to Mental Health Professionals in addition to individual counseling. Her team's primary goal is to help people of all ages realize their full potential and become more effective in their work, all while enhancing the effectiveness of various organizations.
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Contributions that Aim to Make a Difference Dr. Chinu aspires to be an ambassador in the global psychology field, seeing mental health and emotional wellbeing as essential and widely available in the future. Her goal is to be a guiding light for others, assisting them in realizing their most significant potential, establishing deep happiness, and promoting fulfillment for both the individual and the community in which they live. In keeping with that, she and her team hope to transcend national boundaries and establish themselves as India's first multinational business committed to raising the bar for psychological practice, education, and entrepreneurship. As a founder and director of Feeling Minds®, Dr. Chinu proudly says, "We are on a mission to continue being a leading authority on mental health. Our commitment involves actively contributing to discussions, awareness, and initiatives that address individuals' diverse mental health needs, making a positive impact on a global scale." Her initiative aims to make a substantial contribution toward eradicating the stigma attached to mental health
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problems. They provide thorough, internationally acclaimed training programs to empower professionals in their field. They aim to develop a network of knowledgeable, morally driven professionals who support people in achieving better mental health. This calculated move aims to increase psychological engagement and collaboration opportunities with organizations, institutions, and corporations. The main goal of Feeling Minds® is to improve emotional well-being on a global scale. Challenges through the Pandemic Dr. Chinu battled many challenges as a professional in the field of mental health. Addressing the social stigma surrounding mental health awareness in Indian society was tough. She has witnessed days when no one was open to considering mental health as a serious matter, making it challenging to create awareness, provide a safe space, and build trust. Being the only psychologist in her city at one time she took the plunge and conducted many workshops for parents, teachers, healthcare professionals, and students. These emotional educative programs were experiential, and individuals themselves could tell her how learning about emotions positively impacted their everyday lives.
Due to her persistent efforts, she saw that people's perceptions of mental health issues were improving. Through her venture, Feeling Minds®, she offered programs exclusively conducted offline for professionals. But the pandemic forced a shift towards the online mode. The programs that emphasized experiential learning were challenging. Dr. Chinu was quite skeptical about delivering online classes with the same impact as in-person sessions at that time. With passion and dedication, the transition to the online platforms was smoothly achieved. This provided an opportunity to spread the work globally. The success rates of online and offline workshops remained consistent, as attested by positive student feedback. The pandemic conditions put Dr. Chinu in a position to think about how she could help those in need, especially those staying at home. This led to the initiation of a series of heart talks with Dr. Chinu Agrawal (available on the
YouTube channel Feeling Minds) as part of a mental health program. These talks involved discussions on various mental health issues with experts from across the globe. She also took proactive steps by providing free training to professionals and counselors on dealing with depression anxiety and coping with grief and loss during pandemic. Amongst these problematic situations, Dr. Chinu learned more about herself and the resilience that can be found in challenging circumstances. She says, "Challenges are integral to personal and professional growth, shaping the journey and contributing to a deeper understanding of oneself." A Dream of a Healthier Future Dr. Chinu advises young learners to live life to the fullest and uphold their core values. It is crucial to identify what is essential and make choices that are aligned with these choices. A holistic learning pattern is evident instead of keeping it limited to academics. Ultimately, a fulfilling life integrates passions, values, and continuous learning. She is very enthusiastic about the upcoming endeavors of Feeling Minds®. With the status of India's first multispeciality company in Psychology, she aspires to become India's first multinational company in this domain. With a zeal to practice ethical business practices and establish a thriving community of professionals in Psychology, the team collectively takes pride in their students' achievements, which motivates them to encourage more individuals to pursue fulfilling careers in Psychology. Dr. Chinu plans to launch franchise centers nationwide and abroad in the coming years. This strategic move will broaden their reach and create new avenues for individuals interested in Psychology to engage with them. She is also thrilled to introduce upcoming programs like Feeling Minds® Certified Emotional Educator and Entrepreneurship Development in Psychology. They are actively contributing to addressing the mental health needs of men, an area that often receives less attention, with Feeling Minds® Men's Mental Health Forum. They create a safe space for discussions and awareness and provide professional help. Dr. Chinu aspires to unite people to form a vibrant community dedicated to advancing psychology and improving people's lives everywhere.
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Empowering in the
14 | March 2024
Building a Culture of Inclusion
I
n today's rapidly evolving workplace landscape, the imperative of empowering women has never been more pressing. Achieving gender equality isn't merely a moral obligation; it's a strategic imperative for organizations committed to fostering innovation, driving productivity, and maximizing talent. Central to this endeavor is the cultivation of a culture of inclusion—a workplace environment where women are not only welcomed but also empowered to thrive and lead. Understanding the Importance of Gender Diversity Gender diversity isn't just about fairness—it's about capitalizing on the full spectrum of human potential. Research consistently demonstrates that organizations with diverse leadership teams outperform their homogenous counterparts. By bringing together individuals with different backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences, organizations can foster more robust decision-making processes, drive innovation, and enhance overall performance. Breaking Down Barriers Despite significant strides in recent years, women continue to face numerous barriers in the workplace, ranging from unconscious bias and gender stereotypes to systemic inequalities in hiring, promotion, and compensation. Addressing these barriers requires a multifaceted approach that encompasses policy reforms, cultural shifts, and targeted initiatives aimed at leveling the playing field for women.
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Promoting Equal Opportunities At the heart of empowering women in the workplace lies the principle of equal opportunities. This entails ensuring that women have access to the same opportunities for advancement, skill development, and leadership roles as their male counterparts. Implementing transparent and meritbased promotion processes, providing access to mentorship and sponsorship programs, and offering equitable compensation and benefits are essential steps in promoting equal opportunities for women. Creating a Supportive Work Environment Building a culture of inclusion requires creating a supportive work environment where women feel valued, respected, and heard. This involves fostering an organizational culture that prioritizes diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) at all levels. Leaders play a pivotal role in setting the tone for inclusivity by championing diversity, modeling inclusive behaviors, and holding others accountable for fostering a respectful and inclusive workplace culture. Empowering Through Education and Training Empowering women in the workplace also entails providing them with the necessary skills, knowledge, and resources to succeed. Investing in training and development programs tailored to women's needs can help enhance their confidence, competence, and leadership capabilities. Additionally, providing opportunities for continuous learning and professional growth can empower women to take on greater challenges and responsibilities within their organizations. Supporting Work-Life Balance Recognizing the unique challenges
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faced by women in balancing their professional and personal responsibilities is crucial for fostering empowerment in the workplace. Implementing flexible work arrangements, offering parental leave policies, and providing support for childcare and eldercare can help alleviate some of the pressures faced by women juggling multiple roles and responsibilities. Leveraging Mentorship and Sponsorship Mentorship and sponsorship programs can be powerful tools for empowering women in the workplace. Pairing women with mentors who can provide guidance, support, and career advice can help them navigate the complexities of the workplace and overcome obstacles to advancement. Similarly, sponsorship programs, where senior leaders advocate for women's advancement and create opportunities for visibility and recognition, can help accelerate women's career progression. Measuring Progress and Holding Accountable Finally, empowering women in the workplace requires a commitment to measuring progress and holding organizations accountable for their diversity and inclusion efforts. Establishing key performance indicators (KPIs) related to gender diversity, conducting regular audits of policies and practices, and soliciting feedback from employees can help organizations track their progress and identify areas for improvement. Fostering Collaboration and Allyship Empowering women in the workplace requires collective effort and collaboration from all employees, regardless of gender. Men, in particular, play a crucial role as allies
in championing gender equality and promoting a culture of inclusion. By actively listening to women's experiences, acknowledging their contributions, and advocating for their advancement, male allies can help create a more supportive and inclusive workplace environment. Additionally, fostering collaboration among employees of diverse backgrounds can lead to greater innovation and problem-solving, as different perspectives and ideas are brought to the table. Celebrating Diversity and Intersectionality It's essential to recognize that women's experiences are not monolithic and that gender intersects with other aspects of identity, such as race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, and disability. Celebrating diversity and embracing intersectionality are key components of building a truly inclusive workplace culture. By acknowledging and valuing the unique perspectives and contributions of women from diverse backgrounds, organizations can create a sense of belonging for all employees and foster a culture where everyone can thrive. Conclusion In conclusion, empowering women in the workplace is not only a moral imperative but also a strategic imperative for organizations seeking to thrive in today's diverse and competitive business environment. By building a culture of inclusion, promoting equal opportunities, creating supportive work environments, and investing in education and training, organizations can unlock the full potential of their female workforce and drive sustainable success. Ultimately, empowering women isn't just the right thing to do—it's the smart thing to do.
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Most Influen al Women Leaders Shaping India's Future
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A “
t IMMUNO LIFE, we begin a journey to make India healthier, where stronger immunity enriches lives and longevity becomes a shared wealth." Our founder, a leading entrepreneur and social worker, Punam Gupta, envisions a healthier India with the mantra 'Fit India & Happy Farmer.' Let's dive deeper to know more about her venture and her mission. Having approximately twenty-five years of experience as a food nutritionist and a top FOSTAC trainer, Punam Gupta was very concerned about the poor health and diet routine of Indian citizens. During the COVID19 era, the consequences were extreme, where respiratory tract infections, colds, asthma, and viral infections were common. The director of IMMUNO LIFE, a well-known humanitarian-Punam Gupta, was hearted and deeply touched seeing the health anxiety. However, the idea of IMMUNO was established before, and several products were tested earlier, but the official launch of the venture was held on 22 May 2020. Punam Gupta was committed to reformation, where every citizen of our country would have good immunity and power to fight against infectious viruses and diseases, and the upcoming generations in India would prioritize maintaining good health. That's where IMMUNO comes in, making revolutionary changes with its
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product launches, such as several Ayurvedic, beauty, vet, and pet food supplements. The Alarming Covid Era and Social Worker Punam Gupta's Stand We shall never forget the terrible effects of the COVID-19 pandemic when everyone felt forlorn. However, the social worker Punam Gupta "left no stone unturned" even during the worst. Supporting the "IMMUNO LIFE," several revolutionary products were crafted to assist individuals in fending off viral effects and infections and bolstering their immune systems. Tulsi Nasya Inhaler was one of the groundbreaking respiratory viral detoxifiers that helped thousands of individuals fight viral, fungal, and bacterial respiratory infections. The inhaler was uniquely made with loaded features compared to other inhalers or breath-refreshing products. The best thing is that there are no adverse effects, and the product is simple to bring wherever you go. The Tulsi Nasya Inhaler became highly popular during the COVID-19 era. It is an Ayurvedic product with natural ingredients that help reduce respiratory tract infections and protect the nose and lungs, preventing cough and side effects of chemical inhalers that cause no eye irritation. To successfully surpass the pandemic, Punam Gupta led several events and steps to ensure the safety of citizens.
Following one of her events, she donated 20 PPE kits, 3000 face masks, and 100 Immuno Tulsi Nasya Inhalers to the frontline warriors (whose lives were at risk) at the local police station to ensure their safety. The event was held under the supervision of Social Worker Punam Gupta, who distributed the essentials to Sirmaur Police (SP). FSSAI awarded her the 2nd Best FoSTaC Trainer for her recognizable social support. To learn more, visit www.twcfngo.org. and www.twcfngo.org.
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Championing Diversity
24 | March 2024
The
Importance
,
of Intersectionality in
Leadership
I
n recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of diversity in leadership. However, while diversity initiatives have made strides, they often fail to address the complex and intersecting identities of individuals. This is where the concept of intersectionality comes into play. Intersectionality acknowledges that individuals experience multiple forms of oppression or discrimination simultaneously and emphasizes the need to consider these intersecting identities when championing diversity, particularly in women's leadership. Understanding Intersectionality At its core, intersectionality recognizes that individuals' identities are
multifaceted and shaped by various factors such as race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, and more. These intersecting identities influence individuals' experiences and shape their perspectives on leadership and society. Failure to acknowledge intersectionality can result in the marginalization of certain groups within the broader women's movement and hinder efforts to achieve true gender equality. Amplifying Marginalized Voices Historically, mainstream feminist movements have centered on the experiences and perspectives of white, middle-class women, inadvertently marginalizing the voices of women of
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color, LGBTQ+ individuals, women with disabilities, and others. Embracing intersectionality means actively listening to and amplifying the voices of marginalized women, ensuring that their experiences are not only heard but also valued and empowered. This inclusivity is essential for building a more diverse and representative leadership landscape. Recognizing Unique Perspectives One of the strengths of intersectionality is its ability to highlight the unique perspectives and strengths that individuals from different backgrounds bring to leadership roles. For example, a woman of color may offer insights into navigating systemic racism and cultural dynamics that her white counterparts may overlook. Similarly, a queer woman may bring fresh perspectives on inclusivity and belonging within organizational settings. By recognizing and leveraging these diverse perspectives, organizations can foster more innovative problem-solving and decision-making processes, ultimately leading to better outcomes. Addressing Systemic Inequalities: Intersectionality compels us to address the systemic inequalities that perpetuate discrimination and hinder women's advancement in leadership roles. Women of color, for instance, face compounded barriers due to both racial and gender biases, resulting in disproportionately lower representation in leadership positions. To address these inequities, organizations must implement targeted recruitment and retention strategies, provide mentorship programs tailored to marginalized groups, and enact policies that promote pay equity and inclusive workplace cultures.
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Embracing Relational Leadership Models Traditional notions of leadership often emphasize hierarchical structures where power is concentrated at the top. However, intersectional leaders prioritize relational and collaborative leadership models, emphasizing inclusivity, empathy, and collective decision-making. This shift not only fosters a sense of belonging and empowerment among team members but also enables organizations to adapt more effectively to diverse and rapidly changing environments. Guiding Advocacy Efforts Intersectionality serves as a guiding framework for advancing social justice agendas that prioritize the needs of all women, particularly those at the margins. For example, policies aimed at combating gender-based violence must recognize the intersecting forms of violence experienced by marginalized women, including indigenous women, immigrant women, and transgender women. By centering the experiences of the most marginalized, intersectional advocacy efforts can create more inclusive and effective solutions. Driving Structural Changes Surface-level diversity initiatives are not enough to address the root causes of inequality. True diversity and inclusion require deeper structural changes, including dismantling discriminatory hiring practices, addressing barriers to education and healthcare access, and redistributing resources and opportunities more equitably. By taking a holistic approach that addresses these intersecting factors comprehensively, organizations can create environments where all women have the opportunity to thrive in leadership roles.
In contemporary discourse, the concept of intersectionality has emerged as a crucial framework for understanding the complexities of identity and oppression. When applied to women's leadership, intersectionality underscores the importance of recognizing the diverse experiences and identities that shape individuals' lived realities. Women, encompassing a multitude of races, ethnicities, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, abilities, and more, do not navigate the world through a singular lens. Failure to acknowledge this intersectionality risks marginalizing certain groups within the broader movement for gender equality. By championing intersectionality in women's leadership, organizations can amplify the voices of marginalized individuals and foster more inclusive environments. This approach challenges traditional notions of leadership effectiveness and encourages the adoption of collaborative and empathetic leadership models. Moreover, embracing intersectionality isn't just a moral imperative; it's a strategic necessity for organizations seeking to thrive in an increasingly diverse and interconnected world. Conclusion In conclusion, the importance of intersectionality in women's leadership cannot be overstated. By recognizing and valuing the intersecting identities and experiences of women, organizations can build more inclusive, equitable, and effective leadership structures. Embracing intersectionality is not just a moral imperative; it is essential for driving meaningful and lasting change in our workplaces and societies.
Most Influen al Women Leaders Shaping India's Future
Establishing a Holis c Educa onal Set-up in India
E
ducation is the key to social liberation. Educational leaders improve the quality of education with innovation, strategic planning, and establishing an inclusive environment to nurture students holistically. It's their responsibility to foster tangible developments in students. Ms Aruna Singh, President of Samskar-The Life School, is an inspiring personality reshaping the Indian educational sector. Her journey is a tale of passion, serendipity, and utter dedication that began in 1989.
Ms Aruna Singh, President Samskar-The Life School
Her son's regular admissions visit to the school resulted in a lifetime commitment to forming impressionable minds. Her potential as a teacher was acknowledged by the principal of the school, who extended the offer of employment without any formalities. It was a spontaneous moment. Swiftly recording her qualifications on a sheet of blank paper, she set out on a path that would shape the ensuing thirty years and beyond. The early years were a whirlwind of learning and discovery. Ms Singh explored the complexities of education as a primary teacher and saw the profound influence it could have on developing minds. Her canvas was the classroom; every lesson offered a chance to pique students' interest and cultivate a love of learning. Pillar of Success From primary to secondary school and then senior secondary roles, Ms Singh advanced steadily, welcoming the opportunities and difficulties that came with each step. The winds of change started to blow in the mid-2000s, and the field of administration beckoned. She began her journey into administration in 2006, accepting duties that extended beyond the classroom. The move from educator to administrator was a natural progression driven by a desire to contribute to the broader facets of educational leadership.
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The Sanskrit term SAMSKAR reflects not just the culture but also a deep and pure reason to create a good human being, a good family, a good society, a good na on, and thus an excellent world to live in.
She was allowed to take on the role of full-fledged principal in 2009, allowing her to make revolutionary changes and direct the path of educational excellence. With a strong sense of responsibility and a dedication to giving students an experience that would prepare them for life after school, she was a perfect fit for the position. As the President of Education Excellence, Ms Singh is currently at the apex of her academic career. With this role, a new chapter has begun, one in which the decades' worth of cumulative wisdom will be applied to the overall goal of educational excellence. She greatly appreciates the mentors, teachers, parents, and coworkers who have helped her grow. After making an unintentional foray into the field of education, she now embarks on a purposeful journey, motivated daily by the conviction that teaching is a lifetime commitment that will shape the next generation.
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Like German cars, Italian suits, Swiss watches, and Belgian chocolates, Samskar is trusted and recognized worldwide for offering the best education possible with equal emphasis on ethics and ethnicity. The institute's mission is to uplift and enable a community of learners to attain excellence in learning, character development, and overall health. The institute's staff is dedicated to creating a vibrant learning environment that stimulates creativity, critical thinking, and curiosity while preparing students to be kind and responsible global citizens. Facing the Challenges with Efficacy Because of the changing needs of students and the dynamic nature of the education system, Ms Singh has had to deal with several challenges in her many roles. Among the difficulties she faces are: Ÿ
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Mission and Vision Describing the meaning of Samskar, Ms Singh says, "The Sanskrit term Samskar reflects not just the culture but also a deep and pure reason to create a good human being, a good family, a good society, a good nation, and thus an excellent world to live in." Apart from education, children also need to be taught about ethnicity and ethics. The organization articulates its vision and mission statements by these values. The goal of Samskar-The Life School is to become a preeminent hub of academic excellence known for its inventiveness, inclusivity, and dedication to the all-around growth of each student. Along with Mr. Vamsi Mohan and Madhumathi Alluri the founders of Samskar School, Ms Singh envisions a school where students excel academically and have the values, resilience, and skills necessary to thrive in a constantly changing world. They hope to become the benchmark for transformative education that ignites a passion for learning that lasts a lifetime through cooperative partnerships and a commitment to constant improvement.
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Since every student learns differently, it cannot be easy to accommodate their differences and still ensure everyone learns effectively. To keep the classroom atmosphere constructive and well-organized, teachers must effectively manage student behavior, engagement, and interactions. These days, the most essential qualities for parents, teachers, and students are perseverance and patience. It can be challenging for educators to stay updated with technological developments and successfully incorporate technology into their lesson plans, mainly if unfamiliar with the newest resources. This is especially clear when looking at the COVID-19 pandemic era. Many people were forced to learn things that weren't necessary beforehand. When a student's development is represented as a triangle with the teacher at the third vertex, the parents at the second, and the student at the first, if not connected and aligned cannot form a triangle. It is not easy to foster and preserve positive relationships with parents, even though cooperation and communication are crucial for a student's success. Constant professional development is necessary to stay current with educational research, methodologies, and best practices; however, time constraints can make this difficult. The environment surrounding education is constantly changing. Readjusting to new academic policies, pedagogical approaches, and curriculum standards can be challenging, so she had to stay current.
Despite these obstacles, Ms Singh finds great satisfaction in all of her roles because she is aware of how important they are in influencing the future and improving the lives of her
students. She believes that overcoming these obstacles can be facilitated by opportunities for professional development, ongoing support, and a cooperative learning environment in the classroom. Valuable Advice for Young Learners Ms Singh shares specific valuable advice for global students as they navigate their educational journeys: Ÿ
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She admires cultural diversity and asks her students to embrace it. They should engage with students from different backgrounds, participate in cultural events, and celebrate the richness of diversity. The students should establish a support network by connecting with fellow students, faculty, and support services. A strong support network can make the educational experience more enjoyable and help when needed. If the students face challenges with coursework, they shouldn't hesitate to seek academic support. As Ms Singh says, "A simple three-letter word, ASK, is the keyword you need to embrace." Efficient time management is critical to academic success. Students should plan schedules, set priorities, and allocate time for studying, relaxation, and social activities. They should take advantage of extracurricular opportunities, internships, and community engagement. These experiences enhance their resume and contribute to personal and professional growth. Being adaptable is a valuable skill, especially in a global setting. Students should embrace change, be open to new ideas, and learn from different perspectives. Students should pay attention to their communication skills as it enhances their personalities and makes them globally accepted. Pay attention to their physical and mental well-being. Establish healthy routines, get enough rest, and seek support if they feel overwhelmed. They should also start thinking about their career early on. Seek internships, attend career fairs, and explore opportunities that align with their interests and aspirations. New professions and new ways to make their mark are coming yearly.
Strategies for Future According to Ms Singh, there are a lot of exciting opportunities for professional development, creativity, and ongoing contributions to the field of education for educators in the future. Samskar - The Life School believes in teaching deep and pure values to transform the school into an organization that offers education, ethics, and ethnicity. Plans for this venture's future include: Ÿ Ÿ
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To build multiple schools in different cities in the next decade. To provide all the facilities for the students to learn, innovate, and achieve, such as hostels, labs, and technical innovations, as well as collaborations and exchange programs. To build a franchise model for the Samskar Pre-Primary schools nationwide. Community engagement programs that connect all school branches. This can include joint events, collaborative projects, and initiatives that foster a sense of unity among students and parents. Strategic partnerships with education authorities to gain recognition and support for the school's nationwide presence. Engage in or initiate global education initiatives, fostering cross-cultural exchanges, collaborations, and partnerships to provide students with a more comprehensive and interconnected learning experience. Develop scalable systems that can be replicated in new schools. This includes standardized curriculum, administrative procedures, and teacher training programs. Establish educational initiatives, such as after-school programs, workshops, or community outreach projects, to address specific needs within the community and contribute to academic enrichment. Advocate for educational equity and inclusivity, ensuring that all students, regardless of background or circumstances, have access to quality education and opportunities for success.
Students should celebrate achievements and learn from challenges. They should remember that being a global student is not just about academics; it's a holistic journey that shapes them as individuals.
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