Diversity and Inclusion at work have an important role to play in breaking down barriers and dismantling stereotypes. Stories of women, sexual and gender minorities, Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) excelling in a professional setting sends a powerful message to marginalised communities.
It tells them: “You belong. Your voice matters.”
This affirmation has an immeasurable impact on the self-esteem and aspirations of the next generation, who see themselves reflected in these stories.
It creates an environment where all individuals can reach their full potential.
So here are seven inspiring success stories of Women, LGBTQIA+ professionals and Persons with Disabilities (PwD). These are individuals who beat various odds to claim a seat at the table. We hope their stories inspire you to do the same.
A Multi-faceted Transrights Activist
Dr. Akkai Padmashali | Bengaluru, Karnataka
Transgender Rights Activist, Social Worker, and Bharatanatyam Dancer
Akkai Padmashali has many firsts to her name. She was the first transgender person to receive the Rajyotsava Award in Karnataka. She was the first transgender person to register their marriage in Karnataka. She was also the first transgender person in the country who got a license stating her gender as female.
It’s hard to pigeonhole Padmashali. She is an activist, a motivational speaker and a singer. But Padmashali’s journey to becoming one of the most prominent faces of the transgender rights movement in India has been tough, with her own share of discrimination and struggle.
Her own experiences prompted her to step up and speak up for others, first through her work with NGOs like Sangama and then through multiple campaigns and social initiatives.
Her work in various campaigns at creating awareness and ensuring equal rights for the transgender community should be an inspiration for everyone.
LGBTQIA+ Athlete, Breaking Records and Outrunning Stereotypes
Dutee Chand | Bhubaneswar, Odisha
Professional Sprinter and LGBTQIA+ Advocate
Dutee Chand is an Indian sprinter who has left an indelible mark on the world of athletics and LGBTQIA+ representation. Coming from a small village in Odisha’s Jajpur district, Dutee has shattered numerous records in women’s sprinting and has proudly represented India in prestigious international competitions. She is the reigning National Champion in the 100 m sprint, when she bettered her own record.
Beyond her exceptional athletic prowess, Dutee’s bravery and openness about her sexual orientation have played a significant role in breaking stereotypes and fostering acceptance in the sports world. By fearlessly embracing her identity, she has become an inspiration for LGBTQIA+ individuals, showing them that their sexual orientation should never be a barrier to achieving greatness in their chosen fields.
From An Accident Victim to Empowering Others with Disability
Malvika Iyer | Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Disability Rights Activist, Motivational Speaker, and Model
Malvika Iyer’s story is one of a person overcoming her circumstances through grit and determination. As a child, her life took an unexpected turn when she lost her hands and suffered severe leg injuries in a bomb blast near her home. Despite facing such immense challenges, Malvika’s determination and resilience propelled her forward.
She first came to the spotlight when she completed her Senior Secondary School Examination in Chennai with the help of a scribe. And she hasn’t looked back since.
Today, she is an internationally renowned motivational speaker, who tirelessly advocates for the rights of persons with disabilities. She uses her platform to spread awareness, promote inclusivity, and inspire others.
Championing Inclusive Healthcare: A Wheelchair-Bound Doctor’s Fight for Disability Rights
Dr. Satendra Singh | Delhi
Disability Rights Activist, Physician, and Associate Professor
Dr. Satendra Singh is a remarkable disability rights activist, physician, and Associate Professor at the University College of Medical Sciences in Delhi. He has devoted his career to advocating for inclusive healthcare and advancing the rights of people with disabilities. Dr. Satendra contracted Poliomyelitis at a young age, but still went on to pursue medicine.
Despite navigating life from a wheelchair due to his disability, Dr. Satendra’s unwavering passion and dedication continue to inspire change.
His advocacy efforts saw him awarded the Henry Viscardi Achievement Awards, given out to extraordinary leaders in the global disability community. He has successfully advocated for more accessibility in public spaces, better accessibility of government websites, changes in government curriculum and policy to aid the disabled community.
All along, Dr. Satendra has balanced his activism with the demands of his rigorous medical practice and research.
We can all learn from Dr. Satendra Singh’s pioneering spirit and advocacy. It serves as a powerful reminder that healthcare should be accessible to all, regardless of disability.
Sushant Divgikar’s Trailblazing Activism and Artistry
Sushant Divgikar | Mumbai, Maharashtra
LGBTQIA+ Activist, Singer, and Performer
Sushant Divgikar is a multifaceted LGBTQIA+ activist, singer, and drag queen performer based out of India. Also known as Rani KoHEnur, the artist first had their breakout moment in the Entertainment industry with an appearance in Season 8 of Bigg Boss in 2014. An appearance in the Sa Re Ga Ma Pa show followed soon after in 2018. Recently, they also went onto be a part of the debut season of Queen of the Universe, an international drag queen singing competition.
Divgikar’s list of achievements doesn’t end there. In 2020, they were part of the Forbes 30 under 30 list.
Through their platform and large social media presence, they are breaking down barriers and challenging societal norms, while advocating tirelessly for LGBTQIA+ rights. Sushant’s remarkable journey and achievements have paved the way for greater acceptance among the public at large. They are also a beacon of hope and inspiration for countless individuals within the LGBTQIA+ community.
Keshav Suri’s Visionary Leadership in Hospitality and LGBTQIA+ Activism
Keshav Suri | New Delhi, Delhi
Hotelier and LGBTQIA+ Activist
Keshav Suri, a prominent Indian hotelier and dedicated LGBTQIA+ activist, has been instrumental in fostering inclusivity within the hospitality industry.
Under his visionary leadership as the Executive Director of The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group, Keshav spearheaded the implementation of progressive policies that promote LGBTQIA+ rights and inclusivity in the workplace. His efforts led to The Lalit becoming one of the first hotel chains in India to actively support and welcome LGBTQIA+ guests and employees.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions, Keshav Suri received the prestigious NDTV Business Leadership Award for LGBTQIA+ Inclusion. This accolade highlights his trailblazing efforts in challenging societal norms and creating a more accepting and equal environment within the hospitality sector.
It also recognises his pivotal role in the decriminalization of same-sex relationships in India, as a lead petitioner in the case against Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code.
Keshav Suri’s achievements in advancing LGBTQIA+ rights and promoting inclusivity within the hospitality industry serve as an inspiration for countless individuals within and outside the LGBTQIA+ community.
India’s Missile Woman: Forging a Path in Strategic Defense
Tessy Thomas | Hyderabad, Telangana
Renowned Scientist and Project Director
Tessy Thomas: Known as the “Missile Woman of India,” Tessy Thomas has earned well-deserved recognition as a renowned scientist and the Project Director for Agni-IV missile in the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Her fascination with rockets and missiles began early, growing up near the Thumba Equatorial Rocket Launching Station.
Over the years, she has played a pivotal role in the development of India’s strategic missile system Agni, since 1988. Tessy was even recognised with the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Award, for her contributions in the field of missile technology.
Beyond her technical expertise, her achievements serve as a stellar example for several young aspiring female scientists.
Thomas’s trailblazing journey serves as a powerful reminder that gender should never be a barrier to success and that women have an important role to play in shaping the future of scientific innovation.
These inspiring success stories of women, LGBTQIA+ professionals, and Persons with Disabilities (PwD) are a testament to the power of diversity and inclusion in the workplace. These stories should serve as a message of hope and inspiration for all of us to embrace our uniqueness, believe in our abilities, and strive for greatness.
But despite this, the reality is that it’s hard for women, LGBTQIA+ professionals and Persons with Disabilities to access equal career opportunities. Finding the right job opportunity remains a challenge.
That’s why we’re organising Triumph, the third edition of India’s Leading D&I Virtual Career Fair. Triumph is a great opportunity for candidates to work with some of the top inclusive workplaces in India. Through this Virtual Career Fair, we hope to help people land jobs at a place where they can bring their true selves, their best selves, to work.
