“As a leader, I believe in cultivating an environment where every team member feels valued and empowered”

At the core of effective leadership lies continual improvement, benefitting both the organisation and a cohesive, empowered team. To me, leadership signifies an ongoing journey of growth, consistently setting an example through refinement and evolution.

When you have been on lists that matter, you know what truly matters.
Divya Jain, who has been in Business World’s 40 under-40 entrepreneurs and among India Today’s 50 most powerful change-makers under-50, wears many hats.
A social entrepreneur, who has also been a recipient of the ASEAN achievers award, has been working for a decade to provide a solution for the massive unemployed youth in India.
Ms Jain is the co-founder of Seekho, an ed-tech startup that is an Al based upskilling platform to match jobs and seekers, seed funded by Sequoia’s surge fund.
She also conceptualised the first mobile container skill schools in the country and heads one of the largest initiatives for skilling in logistics. Divya is the CEO and founder of Safeducate which has been awarded government contracts worth over $30 million.
As the Chairperson of YFLO Delhi 2023-24 (Young FICCI Ladies Organization), she is actively working towards creating an ecosystem that empowers young women entrepreneurs and professionals.
She is also the Director of Safexpress, India’s largest logistics and Supply chain provider. She is also the author of ‘Horn Please’, a beautiful Coffee table book on the lives of truck drivers in India.
Divya Jain spoke to Fastrack about the education sector, being a woman leader and more. Excerpts of the interview

What are the current trends or innovations in the education and training sector that excite you the most?
The educational landscape from my perspective is in a state of exciting evolution. Witnessing the shift from traditional training to a more tech-integrated, accessible, and skill-diverse environment is both stimulating and promising. The infusion of technology, particularly Artificial Intelligence, into education holds tremendous potential for personalised learning experiences and addressing global disparities in access to knowledge.
Moreover, the integration of Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality in educational settings is immensely fascinating. The immersive potential of VR and the interactive augmentation of AR promise a dynamic, hands-on approach to learning, which I perceive as indispensable for engaging and effective education in this era. From a practical standpoint, the evolving focus on soft skills alongside STEM education, we acknowledge the intrinsic value of these interpersonal skills in complementing technological prowess, envisioning a future where these skills will be integral in shaping a well-rounded, adaptable workforce.
The ongoing transformation in education, underscored by technological innovations, has diversified learning models, and an increased emphasis on holistic skill development, reflects the very essence of progress.

How would you describe your leadership style, and how has it evolved over the course of your career?
Throughout my career in the Up-skilling & education business, my leadership approach has consistently centred on continuous learning, much like a vigilant ship’s captain who regularly consults the compass. As a leader, I believe in cultivating an environment where every team member feels valued and empowered.
Embracing the strength of collective ideas and diverse perspectives, an open atmosphere where everyone’s voice is not just heard but valued. My aim is to lead by example, nurturing a culture that cherishes teamwork, innovation, and mutual support. For me, leadership means empowering others to succeed by eliminating obstacles and fostering an environment where all can flourish and offer their best.
Over time, I have come to appreciate the significance of cultivating a robust network. Seeking guidance from mentors and building connections within professional communities offers fresh perspectives and aids in making well-informed decisions. At the core of effective leadership lies continual improvement, benefiting both the organisation and a cohesive, empowered team. To me, leadership signifies an ongoing journey of growth, consistently setting an example through refinement and evolution.

Did being a woman make your job more challenging?
For me personally, being a woman doesn’t make my job comparatively challenging only because I have a very strong support system. I believe each of us face different challenges and pressures.
While I’ve encountered hurdles, my gender doesn’t define my capabilities or limit my potential. Instead, it adds a unique perspective to my work, enabling me to contribute in diverse and meaningful ways. However, this isn’t the reality for many women. Even today, they go through a lot and encounter numerous challenges.
I think as a society, we must aim to look inside our houses and offices, treat women as equals, support them, and provide the comfort they need in order to grow. I’m doing my bit and continually striving to support these women through my recent movement for change, ‘Because She Can,’ aiming to create an environment where merit and skills outdo gender. I advocate for inclusivity and equality, fostering a space where everyone can thrive.

Any lessons from your career you wish you knew when you started?
When I look back, a few key lessons stand out prominently in my career. Firstly, the importance of networking cannot be overstated. Building genuine relationships within your industry can open doors and provide invaluable support and guidance.
Secondly, embracing failure as a stepping stone to success was a lesson that took time to sink in. Every setback taught me resilience and provided an opportunity for growth.
Lastly, learning to strike a balance between ambition and patience was crucial. While ambition fuels progress, patience allows for the necessary time and space for things to unfold organically.

What according to you are some of the roadblocks?
In my experience, several roadblocks can hinder career progress. Firstly, self-doubt stands in the way of seizing opportunities and pursuing ambitious goals. Overcoming these internal barriers is crucial.
Secondly, a lack of mentorship or guidance can be a significant roadblock. Having someone to offer advice, share experiences, and provide direction can greatly accelerate one’s growth.
Thirdly, resistance to change and an unwillingness to adapt to evolving landscapes is also a big roadblock. Embracing innovation and staying adaptable are crucial to navigating such challenges.

What would your advice be to young professionals, especially women?
In today’s digital world, young girls often feel an overwhelming pressure to fit in. Always remind yourself that you are unique and wonderful just the way you are. My advice would be to have confidence, keep learning, stay active—try a new sport, learn a new skill, and take care of your eating and sleeping habits.
Most importantly, focus on working towards building a better version of yourself every day.