The Express Awards for Women Entrepreneurs 2025 (Express AWE 2025) took place in Mumbai, celebrating women who are shattering boundaries. The event was vibrant, marked by inspiring stories and powerful discussions about entrepreneurship in today’s world filled with challenges like tariffs and artificial intelligence.
Zia Mody, a prominent lawyer and jury member, described the awarded women as "one half of the sky." She emphasized the unstoppable nature of these women who lead in various fields. Fellow jurors included influential figures like Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw from Biocon and Deepak Parekh, the former chairman of HDFC. Their insights highlighted the importance of women in shaping industries, particularly in finance and healthcare.
The evening honored 13 outstanding women, each showcasing courage and ambition across various sectors including social impact, finance, education, and entertainment. Notable awardees included Mallika Srinivasan, who received the Lifetime Achievement Award, Isha Ambani, honored as the Newsmaker of the Year, and Kiran Nadar, named the Icon of the Year.
The event gathered distinguished guests from corporate India, underscoring the significance of female leadership. Mukesh Ambani, one of India’s richest individuals, and other industry leaders were present to support the honorees. Isha Ambani spoke warmly of the equal treatment she received at home, crediting her family’s support for her success.
Former awardee Venu Srinivasan praised his wife Mallika for balancing family and business. His candid words highlighted the often unseen sacrifices women make to excel in their careers while managing households.
In her acceptance speech, Mallika Srinivasan emphasized the dual pillars of education and economic empowerment for women. She noted that positivity and strong relationships are key to achieving success in business and life.
Other award winners included Falguni Nayar for Woman Entrepreneur of the Year, Alina Alam for Social Impact, and Ektaa Kapoor for Media & Entertainment. Their stories resonate with many, showcasing the diverse ways women contribute to society.
Express AWE 2025 is more than just an award ceremony; it’s a celebration of women who challenge norms and inspire change. This fourth edition of the awards shines a light on the ongoing journey towards gender equality and recognition in various sectors.
Statistics show that companies with diverse leadership often outperform their peers. According to a McKinsey report, organizations with women in decision-making roles are likely to be 21% more profitable. This trend illustrates that empowering women isn’t just the right thing to do; it’s beneficial for business.
As we reflect on the achievements honored at Express AWE 2025, it’s clear that women’s contributions are invaluable. The momentum toward greater equality continues, with many individuals and organizations advocating for women’s rights and representation across all aspects of society.
For further insights on women in leadership, you can explore the report by McKinsey here.
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