“With a heart full of gratitude, I am honored to be the recipient of the 8th Dr. Sarojini Naidu International Award for Working Women.”
My 34 years Journey: Empowering People, Organizations & Communities
When I stood on the stage at Marwah Studios in October 2024 to receive the 8th Dr. Sarojini Naidu International Award for Working Women, a wave of emotions washed over me. This recognition was more than just an accolade — it was a reflection of the countless lives, challenges, and triumphs that had shaped my journey. It symbolized the quiet perseverance, the passion to make a difference, and the deep belief that people have the power to transform not just themselves, but the world around them.
Finding Purpose in People
Looking back, my journey into the world of Human Resources began with more than just a career choice — it was a calling. When I started at Engineers India Limited (EIL) in 1991 as a young Management Trainee, I was driven by an innate desire to understand people. I wanted to see how I could contribute to their growth, and how, in turn, that growth could impact organizations in meaningful ways.
Those early years were filled with learning — about people, cultures, and the power of a supportive work environment. As I rose to lead HR for EIL’s global projects, managing teams across continents, I witnessed firsthand how human capital could be the backbone of any successful organization. But it wasn’t just about policies or practices; it was about recognizing each person’s potential and giving them the tools and opportunities to thrive.
In 1999, when I was nominated as the Most Outstanding Women Executive among public sector employees, I realized that this journey was more than just about career progression. It was about creating ripples of change — one person, one team, one organization at a time.
A Leap of Faith: Founding Meritt HR Consultants
In 2012, I made one of the most significant decisions of my life — I took the leap into entrepreneurship. Meritt HR Consultants Pvt. Ltd. was founded by Late Indranil Gupta (Founder) and me, Wilma Gupta (Co-Founder), together with a shared vision to build an organization that would go beyond the confines of corporate life. We wanted to help organizations unlock the potential of their people and, in doing so, help individuals achieve their fullest potential.
Building Meritt from the ground up wasn’t easy, but every challenge strengthened my resolve. Over the years, we have served over 1,000 companies, building HR strategies that align talent with organizational success. What brings me the greatest joy, though, isn’t the business growth — it’s the stories of transformation. It’s the executive who found new meaning in their leadership, the young HR professional who found their voice, and the organizations that flourished because we helped them build their people-centric strategies.
Our Meritt Learning Center became an extension of this dream. Training over 10,000 HR professionals and providing free live learning sessions through our YouTube channel was our way of giving back to a community that has given me so much. Knowing that we’ve empowered individuals with skills and knowledge to shape their futures is something that fills my heart with gratitude.
A Heart for Social Outreach
While my professional life brought me fulfillment, my work with the Social Outreach Foundation (SOF) has given my life deeper meaning. In working with underprivileged youth, I’ve come to realize that empowerment is not just about skills or education — it’s about hope. These young individuals, with so much potential but limited opportunities, have become a significant part of my journey.
At SOF, we’ve created programs that do more than just teach skills — we give these students the confidence to dream. Whether it’s through Computer Course, AI courses, Power BI training, or other vocational programs, I have seen young minds light up with possibilities they never thought were within their reach. Watching them take those first steps towards a brighter future is one of the most emotional and rewarding experiences of my life.
A Moment of Reflection
Receiving the Dr. Sarojini Naidu International Award for Working Women was a deeply personal moment for me. It brought back memories of the countless nights spent reflecting on how I could do more — how I could help one more person, change one more life, or make one more impact. It wasn’t just a celebration of my work; it was a recognition of everyone who has been part of my journey — my colleagues, my students, and the communities I’ve been privileged to serve.
This award reminded me of the long road I’ve traveled, but more importantly, it reminded me of the road that still lies ahead. I still have so much more to give, so many more lives to touch, and so many more opportunities to create.
Looking Forward
As I move forward, I carry with me the belief that true success lies not in accolades or achievements but in the lives we uplift along the way. Whether it’s guiding organizations to unlock their people’s potential or helping underserved communities realize their dreams, my purpose remains the same: to empower.
This journey isn’t just mine — it’s a shared one. It belongs to every person who has believed in me, every individual who has allowed me to be part of their growth, and every student whose future shines a little brighter because of the work we’ve done together.
And so, with a heart full of gratitude, I continue this journey, knowing that the greatest stories are not those we write for ourselves but those we help others create.
