Ayanthi Philip’s ’She Wins’ Program, helps transforms DEI into a strategic advantage for Women Professionals

Ayanthi delivering a training of the ‘She Wins’ program to MAS Intimates

In an era where businesses navigate through a rapidly evolving global landscape, one key factor stands out as a critical driver of success: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). Today, more than ever, companies are recognizing the profound impact that embracing diversity can have on their bottom line, innovation, and overall organizational health.

Renowned communication coach Ayanthi Philip, celebrated for empowering women professionals and entrepreneurs globally through her 'She Wins' training program, emphasized the compelling business case for DEI. ‘Prioritizing diversity not only mirrors changing demographics but positions companies to understand and serve an increasingly diverse customer base, transforming diversity from a moral imperative to a strategic advantage,’ she said.

She further emphasized ‘Equity is another cornerstone of successful businesses that entails in ensuring fair treatment, opportunities, and advancement for all employees, regardless of background, fosters a positive work environment and boosts employee morale. Employees who feel valued and supported are more likely to be engaged, productive, and committed to their organizations.

She went on to say ‘Inclusive workplaces encourage collaboration, creativity, and innovation. When employees feel a sense of belonging, they are more likely to share their unique perspectives, leading to more informed decision-making and problem-solving. Therefore businesses that fail to prioritize DEI risk not only missing out on top talent but also alienating customers and partners who increasingly expect companies to be socially responsible. In an era of heightened awareness and accountability, consumers are aligning themselves with brands that demonstrate a commitment to values beyond profit.

As such companies should take proactive measures to embed DEI into their organizational DNA. This includes implementing and providing diversity training for employees, and establishing employee resource groups that celebrate various backgrounds and perspectives.

Speaking of her programme ‘She Wins’ she stated that it has been developed with a keen understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities that women face in the professional arena, and is designed to equip participants with the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to stand out and thrive in their careers.

‘It begins by recognizing that personal branding is not just about projecting an image but about embracing authenticity. The program encourages participants to explore and articulate their values, strengths, and unique qualities, helping them build a brand that aligns with their true selves. Through a series of interactive workshops sessions, participants develop a deep understanding of their personal brand DNA’ explained Ayanthi .

She outlined that the program delves into strategic communication, teaching women to articulate their value proposition effectively and craft compelling narratives resonating with their audience. Leadership presence and influence are also emphasized, empowering women to navigate professional challenges with confidence and purpose. Participants engage in dynamic sessions that focus on executive presence, effective communication, and negotiation skills. The goal is to empower women to navigate professional challenges with confidence, assertiveness, and a strong sense of purpose’.

Ayanthi further noted ‘the essence of projecting oneself as a credible professional lie in the exhibited behaviors and communication strategies. The dimensions of credibility encompass how one looks, what they say, how they listen, how they sound, and how they behave. Following the training, the women experienced a notable boost in confidence. This translated into enhanced self-presentation and improved communication skills, evident in meetings, team interactions, conversations with managers, and feedback sessions with colleagues. The overall increase in confidence stands out as the primary outcome. Additionally, the workshop serves as a platform for delving into personal challenges, providing a confidential space for women to share and address these issues. This dual focus on professional projection and personal growth underscores the holistic approach of the training, contributing to the participants' overall development.’

Rozani Akbar, Head of Learning & Development at MAS Intimates, expressed that the workshop had yielded overwhelmingly positive outcomes for their company. ‘It has equipped participants, particularly women, with valuable insights into presenting themselves effectively in various work scenarios and special occasions. Furthermore, the workshop has empowered them with practical strategies for personal and professional development, paving the way for a positive trajectory in their careers. As a direct result of the workshop, participants are expected to adopt a more formal and appropriate attire for their everyday work, accompanied by an enhanced ability to assert themselves constructively when addressing conflicts. Additionally, they will showcase an elevated proficiency in delivering feedback professionally, thereby contributing to a more refined and effective workplace communication dynamic.

‘As we look to the future, the importance of DEI for businesses will only continue to grow. The companies that thrive will be those that recognize diversity not as a checkbox on a corporate agenda but as a fundamental principle that drives innovation, fosters resilience, and ensures long-term success, ’said Ayanthi.