In the upcoming budget, my fervent advocacy is for bold and decisive measures to empower women entrepreneurs in India. I demand not just incremental but transformative steps.
– Mohd Naushad Khan
You have been recognized as one of the “Prominent Muslims who shaped the modern world”, and are to be among the “100 Inspiring & Impactful Women of UP”, and listed at “50 Global inspiring Women leaders and Top Women CEO of the year 2023. How do you feel?
It’s truly an honor to be recognized in such prestigious lists. Being acknowledged as one of the ‘Prominent Muslims who shaped the modern world,’ making it to the ‘100 Inspiring & Impactful Women of UP,’ and being listed among ‘50 Global inspiring Women leaders and Top Women CEO of the year’ is humbling. These recognitions come from esteemed organizations like World Trade Center, RBTC, International organisations like Prodigy, various Trade organisations. They have acknowledged my contributions to the Growth and Development towards Trade and Development, Towards Women Empowerment and declared me CEO of the year 2023. I’m grateful for the support and recognition.
What according to you should be done for women empowerment in India?
Fostering women empowerment in India requires a multi-faceted approach. We need to focus on education, skill development, and providing equal opportunities in all sectors. Encouraging entrepreneurship among women, creating a supportive work environment, and ensuring gender equality are essential. Additionally, awareness campaigns to challenge stereotypes and cultural norms, along with legal reforms to protect women’s rights, can play a crucial role
For any successful entrepreneur what according to you should be the social responsibility?
For any successful entrepreneur, social responsibility is paramount. Beyond financial success, entrepreneurs should actively contribute to the community and address social issues. This can involve initiatives such as supporting education, healthcare, and environmental sustainability. By giving back, entrepreneurs can make a positive impact on society and contribute to its well-being.
How do you like to share the feelings of your parents after your achievements?
When my father came to know about my achievements, he shared his views to me and all by saying, “On the day of having performed another Umrah in Makkah (20th January 2024), my daughter Khair Ull Nissa has been chosen and honoured on the calendar of 2024 as “MUSLIMS WHO SHAPED THE MODERN WORLD. Allah blesses her with blessings and honour her with more respect and be able to perform the duties of Good Muslim. She has made me a proud father and I am humbled.”
I believe my father’s words are a source of great motivation for me. They’re a testament to the support and encouragement I’ve received from my family throughout my journey.
Tell us about your educational, professional journey and family background?
Currently, I am on an international assignment which focuses on USD 500 Billion of Revenue and setting a benchmark for Trade and Investment between two countries.
I had the privilege of being a Board Member of the World Trade Center Association in New York and served as the Executive Director for Asia Pacific and India. In this role, I played a key part in driving monumental growth, catalyzing strategic partnerships, and achieving a 3x growth in global distribution reach. My expertise encompasses spearheading revenue generation, navigating markets in North and South America, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa, Overseeing the development of 500+ million square meters to achieving notable sales and lease milestones, fuelling global expansion. My strengths lie in optimism, decisiveness, effective communication, collaboration, mentoring, and adaptability.
Throughout my career, I’ve received recognitions such as the Economic Times ICONIC Women in Realty for 2021 and 2022, as well as the Top 50 Global Inspirational Women Award in 2023. I’ve also been actively involved as a Founding Member of various organizations like NAREDCO MAHI and the Real Estate Women’s Wing of NAREDCO.
I hold an MBA in Marketing & International Business from Leeds University in the UK, which has provided me with a solid foundation in business strategy and global market dynamics.
As a CEO of the year, what would you like to demand in the coming budget for the women entrepreneurs in India?
As the honored CEO of the year, I stand at the forefront, a voice for change and progress. In the upcoming budget, my fervent advocacy is for bold and decisive measures to empower women entrepreneurs in India. I demand not just incremental but transformative steps – increased funding opportunities that go beyond token gestures, robust tax incentives that truly level the playing field, and strategic initiatives focused on enhancing the skill sets and networking capabilities of women entrepreneurs.
We are at a pivotal moment where unleashing the untapped potential of women-led businesses is not just a matter of equality but a strategic imperative for the nation’s economic development. The call is not for mere lip service but for the creation of an environment that not only supports but propels the growth of women entrepreneurs. It’s time for our budgetary allocations to reflect a commitment to inclusivity and to recognize the immense contributions that women entrepreneurs can make to our nation’s prosperity.
This is not just about gender equality; it’s about recognizing and harnessing the power of innovation, leadership, and economic contribution that women bring to the entrepreneurial landscape. As the CEO of the year, I urge policymakers to seize this opportunity, break through conventional barriers, and usher in a new era of empowerment for women entrepreneurs in India. The time for action is now, and together, we can build a future where every aspiring woman entrepreneur has the resources and support needed to thrive and lead.
