New Delhi, Jan 21: Vedica for Women, a leading non-profit institution committed to advancing women’s leadership in India, celebrated a landmark milestone today with its 10th Convocation of the Vedica Scholars Programme for Women. Held at the India International Centre, Delhi, the event featured a powerful fireside chat between Ms. Indra Nooyi, former CEO of PepsiCo, and Anuradha Das Mathur, Founder and Dean of Vedica, addressing the dualities faced by young women navigating the complexities of career and family.
Drawing from her own journey, Ms. Nooyi shared the realities of building a demanding global career while raising a family, emphasising that there is no singular model of balance—only choices made across different phases of life. She encouraged women to let go of the pressure of perfection and decide what they want to be exceptional at, what they are comfortable being good at, and what they are willing to release. She offered nuanced advice on navigating relationships without surrendering one’s aspirations.
The Competence-Courage Connection
In a candid and empowering session, Ms. Nooyi shared her philosophy on building a lasting career, noting that true professional courage must be rooted in competence and expertise. She urged young leaders to identify their unique value proposition and use that excellence as the foundation for their confidence.
The conversation also touched on navigating the workplace with confidence and clarity. Ms. Nooyi highlighted the importance of mentorship, communication, and constructive courage, underscoring that influence is built not by speaking the loudest, but by being heard, trusted, and respected.
Reflecting on leadership beyond the boardroom, Ms. Nooyi spoke about partnership, caregiving, and shared responsibility at home, noting that societies and economies can only progress when women are supported both professionally and personally to participate fully.
Anuradha Das Mathur, Founder and Dean of Vedica, added, “We could not have expected a more fitting celebration of Vedica completing ten years. Ms. Nooyi’s candour, wisdom, and lived leadership will remain a source of inspiration for our scholars as they forge ahead in their lives. Even as we are grateful for the last decade, we are excited for the next ten years of building a cadre of women who will lead with competence, courage, and compassion.”
The 10th Convocation celebrated the achievements of Vedica’s graduating scholars while reaffirming the institution’s mission to build a new generation of women leaders confident in their capabilities, clear in their priorities, and grounded in values.
Over the past decade, the Vedica Scholars Programme for Women has empowered hundreds of women to step into leadership roles across corporate, entrepreneurial, public, and social sectors. The milestone convocation stands as a testament to Vedica’s growing impact and its continued commitment to shaping an equitable and inclusive leadership landscape in India.