This Women’s Day, Women Founders Share Their Success Mantras and Lessons Learned – News18
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On this International Women’s Day, six successful female entrepreneurs share their experiences, obstacles, and the insights that helped them succeed.
Six amazing founders share their success-driven mantras on Women’s Day.
These women entrepreneurs share the knowledge that helped them along the way, from honesty and sustainable growth to resilience and measured risks. They provide thoughts on leadership, tenacity, and creating companies that have an impact on Women’s Day.
Radhika Mukhija, Founder of The Bare Bar
Success is never accidental. It’s built in the quiet hours, the sleepless nights, and the moments when no one is watching.” As a woman founder, I’ve learned that perseverance isn’t just a trait—it’s a necessity. The journey is often lonely, but solitude has its own lessons. It forces you to dig deep, trust yourself, and filter out the noise. It’s in those moments of uncertainty that resilience is forged. For me, success has always been about relentless effort and unwavering belief. When your intent is pure and your actions consistent, recognition becomes inevitable. There will be challenges, but if you keep showing up—day after day—the world has no choice but to take notice. My mantra is simple: keep going, keep believing, and keep your passion and your faith speaking louder than the doubts around you!
Nagu Reddy, Managing Director at Zennara Clinics, & Priyanka Reddy, Managing Director at Zennara Clinics
Nagu Reddy is a visionary entrepreneur with a passion for bringing innovation to Hyderabad. A graduate of Osmania University and the University of Sheffield, UK, she has a wealth of experience in diverse global business projects. In 2017, she launched Top Stitch, revolutionizing the pop-up bazaar concept in Hyderabad with its curated selection of designer womenswear and accessories. In 2022, she co-founded Zennara, realizing her vision to introduce world-class cosmetology treatments and experts to Hyderabad.
Nagu’s success mantra as Managing Partner at Zennara is to “build a legacy of care: Attention to detail is a must, meticulously delivered by your team, and always focused on the customer walking in. Priyanka Reddy is a dynamic leader with a powerful blend of engineering prowess, financial acumen, and entrepreneurial drive. Her background includes spearheading large-scale infrastructure projects at GVPR Engineers Limited and experience with MNCs like Nokia and Microsoft. With an engineering degree from CBIT, Hyderabad, and a financial strategy diploma from Oxford University, Priyanka brings a strategic and results-oriented approach to her role. Now, as a Managing Partner at Zennara, she brings two decades of project scaling experience, overseeing financial management and overall expansion. Her success mantra: To dream big, stride boldly, and lead with trust; you will have to take calculated risks to create a transformative tomorrow. And creating an environment of trust and support will help us get there faster, together.
Arya Khattiwala, Founder of Skin Deli
This Women’s Day, my biggest message to women is do not be too hard on yourself. You do not have to be perfect or score a ten in everything. Family, friends, and personal well-being are just as important as work. Also, it is not about meeting society’s expectations but about what feels fulfilling to you. SKIN DELI started from my love for skincare and the responsibility to create something truly meant for Indian skin. I wanted to bring Ayurvedic wisdom together with the best of science. To build something meaningful, a strong foundation is required. Our foundation is based on groundbreaking research and a passionate team that goes above and beyond to bring extraordinary results. Failures came, but we kept going and improving—growth comes from within, right? After all that effort, SKIN DELI is now giving its dividend. Success takes time, but when you get it right, nothing can stop you. Keep going and trust the journey.
Divya Malpani, Founder & CEO, Skinvest
My biggest lesson has been that sustainable growth always outweighs rapid expansion. Profitability and longevity should be the focus from day one. Burning cash for short-term wins is never a strategy.
Understanding inventory is just as crucial. Being’sold out’ might sound exciting, but it often signals mismanagement rather than success. Growth should be intentional and well-prepared, not reactionary.
Time is the most valuable resource. Structuring the day with clear priorities ensures momentum, and while speed is essential, consistency in branding is non-negotiable—trust takes time to build but can be lost in an instant.
Finally, customer retention is everything. A brand isn’t built on first-time buyers alone but on those who return. The real win is creating products and experiences that keep people coming back.
Renu Kant, Envi Salons’ Founder
I want to advise ambitious female founders on this Women’s Day that your dreams are more important than any situation. It’s where you see yourself, not where you begin. Resilience is essential; anticipate difficulties but grow and adjust. Your superpower is authenticity; embrace your own vision. Break down the walls and don’t let stereotypes define you. Establish a solid network, look for guidance, and work together. Put real value creation ahead of profit. Celebrate each accomplishment and define success according to your own standards. Have faith in your desire and keep going. Never forget that empowering others also empowers you. Your path is entirely your own, and you can achieve your goals.
Dr. Suyomi Shah, M.D. Dermatologist, Formulator at brand Dr. Su
As a dermatologist, my success mantra has always been “community first.” When I started my journey as a founder and their dermat next door, I knew that so many people like me were struggling with acne and hair concerns but were too overwhelmed by all the misinformation available online. So instead of following trends, I focused on science, transparency, and non-sponsored education, which not only helped me build Dr. Su—a people’s brand—but also a community of over 7 lakh people who trust and believe in our formulation.
And one of the biggest lessons I’ve learned in my journey so far would be this: If you truly care about solving real problems, your consumers will become your strongest advocates, your real-life influencers! Our authenticity, transparency & community-first mindset have helped us build long-term loyalty amongst your consumers. Of course the journey to building a brand isn’t always smooth but staying true to your mission and listening to your community will always redirect you towards success.
Dr. Chytra V Anand, Celebrity cosmetologist, committee member – Karnataka Medical Council, Founder of Kosmoderma Skin & Hair Clinics, Chief Formulator at SkinQ
Success isn’t just about ambition—it’s about resilience, reinvention, and the courage to challenge norms. As an Aestheic dermatologist and entrepreneur, I’ve learned that breaking barriers comes with resistance, but perseverance turns skepticism into respect.
One mantra I live by is “Adapt, Innovate, Lead.” The world changes rapidly, and success demands evolution—whether in medicine, business, or personal growth. Women, especially, are often expected to conform, but real success comes from embracing our unique strengths rather than fitting into predefined roles.
A key lesson? Own your expertise. Early in my career, I realized that confidence backed by knowledge is the ultimate game-changer. Women often hesitate to take credit for their achievements, waiting to be acknowledged. Don’t. Claim your space, advocate for yourself, and let your work speak for itself.
Don’t let yourself by pushed into a corner, you need to create and work for your space.
Another truth? Balance is a myth, but boundaries are powerful. We’re conditioned to juggle everything—career, family, societal expectations—but real fulfillment comes when we set clear priorities and protect our energy.
For every woman striving for success: Your voice matters. Your dreams are valid. And your journey is yours to shape. Trust in your capabilities, surround yourself with the right support, and never hesitate to take bold steps. The future belongs to those who dare to lead it.
Harvi Shah, Fashion Business Coach & Founder of BlingBag
Harvi Shah, the founder of BlingBag, a leading online fashion jewellery brand, and a renowned fashion business coach, is a first-generation entrepreneur who has built multiple successful businesses without any prior business background or experience.
She firmly believes that every woman is a born entrepreneur—running a business is as intuitive as managing a household. According to Harvi, women need to stop seeking validation and instead build self-confidence to start a business they are truly passionate about. “Success lies in taking imperfect action. Don’t wait for the perfect plan—just start, even if it’s shabby,” she emphasizes.
When it comes to business growth, Harvi challenges conventional thinking. She doesn’t believe in reaching a “finish line.” Instead, she advocates for constantly pushing the boundaries—whenever you’re about to reach a milestone, extend the goalpost and tap into your hidden potential as an entrepreneur.
One of the biggest challenges women face in business is decision-making. With endless options available, making the right choice can feel overwhelming. Harvi’s mantra for success? “Choose the option that takes you closer to your goal, and once you decide—make that decision right.”
With over a decade of entrepreneurial experience, Harvi is on a mission to help women break barriers, trust their instincts, and build thriving businesses with confidence and boldness.
