by: Shimoli Reddy

When I first ventured into the medical device and pharmaceutical industry, I didn’t quite know what to expect. I was armed with a shiny degree, a headful of dreams, and perhaps a pinch of naivety. Little did I know that being a South Asian woman in this field would bring its own unique set of challenges, but also countless opportunities for growth and self-discovery. My journey so far has been nothing short of a roller coaster ride, complete with its share of highs and lows, and more than a few loops along the way.

The Not-So-Welcome Wagon

From the very beginning, it was clear that the road ahead would not be a smooth one. The first time I walked into a conference room, with my notebook and pen at the ready, I was met with a chorus of skeptical glances. It was as if my colleagues had never seen a woman, let alone one with brown skin and a last name that rolled off the tongue like a Bollywood dance number. I soon realized that I had to fight not just for my place at the table, but also for a voice that would be heard over the hammer of preconceived notions and unconscious biases.

One of the earliest and most jarring experiences of this came during a team meeting. As I confidently presented my ideas, a senior colleague interrupted me mid-sentence, dismissing my suggestions with a condescending smile. “I think you might be a bit out of your depth here,” he said, oblivious to the fact that I had spent weeks researching the topic and working with the plant team to absorb all the information. It took every ounce of self-control not to break into an monologue about the importance of respect and equality.

Overcoming Stereotypes with Determination

It wasn’t long before I realized that my battle was not just against individuals, but against deeply ingrained stereotypes. It seemed that, in the eyes of many, I was expected to fit into a certain mold – one that involved being docile, agreeable, and – heaven forbid – non-confrontational. But, as anyone who knows me can attest, I was never one to back down from a challenge.

I remember a particular instance when I was assigned to lead a project team. My excitement quickly turned to frustration as I encountered resistance from some team members who questioned my authority and expertise. They seemed to believe that my gender and ethnicity somehow made me less capable of steering the ship. But instead of letting their doubts deter me, I doubled down on my efforts. I armed myself with knowledge, sought mentorship, and worked tirelessly to demonstrate my capabilities. I often had to work twice as hard as my counterparts to get team members to get on board with a simple project plan.

There were times where I questioned my ability to manage a project team, but gradually, my persistence began to pay off. My team started to see the value in my contributions, and the project’s success was a testament to what could be achieved when biases were set aside. It was a hard-fought victory, but one that reinforced in me the belief that determination and resilience were my greatest allies. It also reinforced that I was in the right career path.

Finding Allies and Building a Support Network

In the midst of these struggles, I was fortunate to find allies who believed in me and supported my journey. One such person was my manager, someone who had been in a project managing position for over 25 years. As he was also new to the company, he took me under his wing and provided invaluable guidance, helping me navigate the often-turbulent waters of the industry and reminded me several times why project management was my passion. Having someone who understood the challenges I faced was a game-changer.

My manager once shared a piece of advice that has stuck with me: “You can’t control how others perceive you, but you can control how you respond to it.” This simple yet profound wisdom became my mantra. I learned to channel my frustrations into productive actions and let my work speak for itself.

My support network also extended beyond the professional realm. My family and friends were my pillars of strength, offering encouragement and a listening ear whenever I needed it. There were days when I felt like giving up, but their unwavering belief in me kept me going.

Lessons Learned and the Power of Humor

As I reflect on my journey, I realize that each struggle and setback has been a valuable lesson in disguise. I’ve learned the importance of resilience, the power of a supportive network, the need to advocate for oneself, and knowing when you just need a break. But perhaps the most surprising lesson has been the power of humor in overcoming adversity.

In the face of discrimination and bias, humor became my secret weapon. It was a way to diffuse tension, challenge stereotypes, and build connections. I remember a particularly tense meeting where a colleague made a snide remark about my “exotic” background. Instead of getting defensive, I responded with a light-hearted quip about how exotic flavors often make the best dishes. The room erupted in laughter, and the tension melted away. It was a small victory, but one that reminded me of the impact of a well-timed joke.

Breaking Barriers and Inspiring Change

Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working on groundbreaking projects and making meaningful contributions to the industry. But beyond the professional achievements, what truly matters to me is the impact I’ve had in breaking down barriers for others like me.

I’ve made it a point to mentor young women and individuals from underrepresented backgrounds, sharing my experiences and encouraging them to pursue their dreams. It’s immensely rewarding to see them thrive and succeed, knowing that I played a small part in their journey.

Being a South Asian woman in the medical device and pharmaceutical industry is no walk in the park, but it’s a journey that has shaped me in ways I never imagined. It’s a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and a good sense of humor. And as I continue to navigate this ever-evolving landscape, I carry with me the lessons learned, the support of my allies, and the unwavering belief that I can overcome any obstacle in my path.

Looking Forward

As I look to the future, I am filled with hope and excitement. The industry is changing, albeit slowly, and there is a growing recognition of the value of diversity and inclusion. I am proud to be part of this change, and I am committed to continuing the fight for equality and representation. More so, I’m proud to be part of a company that recognizes diversity, equality and inclusivity, and has that mindset in everything they do.

To anyone out there, reading this blog post, who has ever felt underestimated or overlooked, I say this: embrace your uniqueness, stand tall, and never let anyone dim your light. Your journey may be challenging, but it is also filled with endless possibilities and opportunities for growth. And remember, a little humor can go a long way in overcoming even the toughest of obstacles.

In the end, it’s not just about breaking through the glass ceiling; it’s about shattering it into a million pieces and paving the way for others to follow. Together, we can create a future where everyone, regardless of gender, ethnicity, or background, has the opportunity to thrive and succeed.

Cheers to the journey ahead – may it be as rewarding, enlightening, and yes, even as humorous, as the one we’ve traveled so far.