Q: Mahalakshmi, you’ve become a beacon of hope and inspiration for countless women entrepreneurs across India. What drives your passion to create better opportunities for women, and how did you start your journey in this space?
Mahalakshmi Saravanan: My journey began with a simple yet powerful desire to see more women in leadership roles and entrepreneurship. I’ve always believed in the immense potential women have to drive change, not just in their lives but in their communities and the economy at large. This belief, coupled with a can-do spirit, pushed me to create platforms and opportunities for women to step into the entrepreneurial world. Over the years, this passion has only grown stronger, and it’s incredibly fulfilling to see so many women thriving and breaking barriers.
Q: You’ve been a motivational speaker at numerous national and international events, and your influence has reached over 100,000 people. What message do you most often share with aspiring entrepreneurs?
Mahalakshmi Saravanan: My core message is always about resilience, optimism, and the power of believing in oneself. I tell aspiring entrepreneurs that challenges are inevitable, but it’s their attitude and determination that will see them through. I encourage them to embrace failure as a learning opportunity and to stay focused on their vision. It’s also important to build a strong network of support, whether through mentors, peers, or platforms like Women Entrepreneurs India, where they can find resources and guidance to help them succeed.
Q: Your work has earned you numerous accolades, including the Rex Karmaveer Global Fellowship and being featured in The Economic Times and the Asia-Pacific Journal. How do these recognitions influence your mission?
Mahalakshmi Saravanan: While it’s humbling to receive such recognitions, they serve as a reminder of the impact my work has and the responsibility I carry. Awards like the Rex Karmaveer Global Fellowship, which is connected to the United Nations, reinforce the importance of what we’re doing at Women Entrepreneurs India. Being featured alongside global leaders in the Asia-Pacific Journal was a significant moment, as it highlighted our efforts on an international platform. These recognitions motivate me to keep pushing the boundaries, to continue advocating for women, and to ensure that every woman entrepreneur has the opportunity to succeed.
Q: Could you tell us about some of the specific initiatives you’ve led that have had a major impact on women entrepreneurs?
Mahalakshmi Saravanan: One of our key initiatives at Women Entrepreneurs India has been providing access to essential resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities. We’ve also focused on skill development programs that equip women with the tools they need to excel in their businesses. Another important aspect has been our efforts to change societal perceptions, encouraging more families and communities to support women in their entrepreneurial pursuits. These initiatives, combined with the motivational talks I’ve given, have collectively empowered thousands of women to take charge of their futures.
Q: Finally, what’s next for you and Women Entrepreneurs India?
Mahalakshmi Saravanan: We’re constantly evolving to meet the needs of women entrepreneurs in a rapidly changing world. Moving forward, we’re looking to expand our reach, especially in rural and semi-urban areas where women face even greater challenges. We’re also working on digital initiatives to provide more accessible learning and networking opportunities. The goal is to continue building a robust ecosystem that supports women at every stage of their entrepreneurial journey. There’s still so much to do, and I’m excited about the future and the impact we can continue to make.
