This summer, I had the privilege of interning at BVC (B Venture Capital), a VC firm focused on investing in pre-seed startups across Latin America. From day one in São Paulo, I felt welcomed by the warm and collaborative culture. I am especially grateful to Mitsuru Nakayama, the General Partner, and my supportive colleagues for making my experience so enriching and meaningful.

• Read more about Empowering Entrepreneurs and Growing Impact – VC Summer Internship Experience in Latin America

The year was 2003. The day was ‘Placement Day’ at my communications management school in Ahmedabad, India. I was interviewing for my first full-time job, incredibly eager to enter the corporate world and make my mark. At that time, Ogilvy & Mather was the most prestigious ad agency in the country. I wanted to work there so badly, I could taste it. The interview with the Country Head - Strategic Planning was going swimmingly well. We had a rhythm and it was palpable. 

• Read more about Limitless: Rising Above Bias

When I got accepted into INSEAD the first reaction I got when I told people, was “Who will take care of your child?” instead of “Congratulations! You can do it”. Then when I found out I was pregnant, and I chose not to defer, I was told all sorts of things, like “Think about your child, this is an impossible task, you cannot raise a toddler and be pregnant and do such an intense MBA, stop thinking you can do it all”. 

• Read more about A Toddler, A Pregnancy, and INSEAD

A year at INSEAD allowed me to reflect deeply about female leadership. From discussions inside the INSEAD classroom to the incredible seminars hosted by the Women in Business Club, discussions on female leadership and gender equality are abundant. Having heard from many great female professors, guest speakers, alumni and classmates, I feel truly inspired.

• Read more about The Kindness, Understanding and Collaborative Spirit of Female Leadership

INSEAD is a community that champions diversity and equality. As a female student, I am amazed by the amount of female leadership emerging through events, projects, and collaborations. Furthermore, the depth of discussions on gender equality, and the wonderful female role models we have in alumni and guest speakers is phenomenal.

• Read more about Developing Female Leadership at INSEAD