At Moxy, we believe in inspiring action by highlighting real stories of real women. Meet Alka Gupta, an inspirational leader who's made waves in the business world. As Acting COO at BukuWarung (YC S20), she drove exponential growth and expanded operations across multiple countries and also spearheaded the launch of Grab's food business across 8 countries. Beyond her professional achievements, Alka is a passionate advocate for women in leadership.
Introducing Alka Gupta
Can you briefly share about yourself, your professional journey and the most important milestones that have shaped your career?
I'm all about building things. Like, empowering Southeast Asian MSMEs through BukuWarung (we're talking financial superpowers for warung heroes!), leading regional strategies at Grab (think food, rides, payments – I wear many hats!), and now, bringing the fire as CEO of Podium. We're crafting communities that ignite human potential, and let me tell you, it's electrifying!
Can you share the key strategies that have been crucial in navigating challenges and achieving success in your career? How do you think they can inspire others?
The startup ecosystem can be exhilarating and challenging in equal measure. As a woman navigating this dynamic landscape, I've learned a few key strategies that have helped me along the way.
1. Embrace your unique perspective: Don't try to fit into a pre-existing mould. Women often bring different strengths to the table, like a collaborative approach, strong communication skills, and a focus on building relationships. Leverage these strengths to create a leadership style that's authentically you.
2. Build a strong support network: Surround yourself with people who believe in you and your vision. This could include mentors, fellow entrepreneurs, or even just friends and family who understand your journey. Knowing you have a support system to lean on during tough times can be incredibly empowering.
3. Don't be afraid to ask for help: It's okay not to have all the answers. Asking for help doesn't mean you're weak; it shows you're willing to learn and grow. Seeking guidance from experienced individuals can open doors to new opportunities and equip you with invaluable knowledge.
4. Celebrate your wins, big and small: The journey to success is rarely linear. Take the time to acknowledge and celebrate your achievements, no matter how significant they may seem. Celebrating your wins, both personal and professional, can boost your confidence and fuel your motivation to keep going.
5. Pay it forward: As you gain experience and success, use your platform to empower others, especially other women in the startup ecosystem. Mentor younger women, share your knowledge, and advocate for diversity and inclusion. Your journey can inspire and pave the way for others to thrive in this exciting world.
What challenges have you faced as a woman in the workplace, and how did you overcome them?
Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
As the youngest and often the only woman leader in various rooms, I'll admit, I've grappled with my fair share of challenges. One of the biggest hurdles has been overcoming imposter syndrome. Doubting your own abilities and feeling like you don't belong, even when you're qualified, is something many women, myself included, have experienced.
To combat this, I've focused on reframing my self-talk. Instead of dwelling on self-doubt, I remind myself of my achievements, the skills I bring to the table, and the value I add to the conversation. I literally made a 1 pager on why I belong in this room, I would read this every time I was in doubt. I also actively seek out leadership coaches and peers who believe in me and my potential. Surrounding yourself with a supportive network can be a game-changer, as it helps you see your own worth through the eyes of others
Accepting my Leadership style
Another challenge I've faced is navigating the perception that my balanced and peaceful approach to decision-making might be seen as a lack of courage or an inability to disrupt the status quo. However, I've learned that strength doesn't always manifest in loud pronouncements or aggressive tactics. True leadership, in my view, lies in the ability to gather diverse perspectives, weigh options calmly, and make well-informed decisions that benefit the collective.
I've embraced my unique approach and even found it to be an asset. My calm demeanor allows me to foster a more inclusive environment where everyone feels heard and valued, ultimately leading to better collaboration and creative solutions. This doesn't mean I shy away from making tough decisions, but rather that I strive to do so with thoughtfulness and respect for all involved.
Breaking Boundaries: Innovating Diversity and Inclusion Beyond Policies
In fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion, what innovative steps do you think organizations should take beyond traditional policies?
To foster a culture of diversity and inclusion, organizations must embrace innovative approaches that transcend traditional policies. Let's delve into three essential strategies to reach this objective.
1. Embrace flexible work arrangements:
Programs like job sharing allow individuals with diverse needs and responsibilities, especially women and caregivers, to contribute their talent while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. This can attract a wider pool of talent and unlock the potential of individuals who might otherwise be unable to commit to traditional full-time roles.
2. Redefine what "equality" means:
Move beyond simply aiming for equal representation in the workforce. True equality takes into account individual circumstances and needs. It's about creating an environment where everyone feels empowered to contribute their unique strengths and perspectives, regardless of their background or work style.
3. Focus on the "what" and not the "when":
Shift the focus from the time spent at work to the outcomes delivered. This empowers individuals to work in ways that suit their best performance, whether it's condensed hours or flexible schedules. This not only fosters trust and respect for individual work styles, but also benefits the organization by attracting and retaining talent who are results-oriented and efficient.
From your perspective, why is it crucial for HR and CEOs to actively listen to the voices of female employees?
Addressing specific challenges: Women often face unique challenges in the workplace, such as unconscious bias, microaggressions, and the juggle of work-life balance. By actively listening to their concerns and experiences, HR and CEOs can gain a deeper understanding of these challenges and develop strategies to address them proactively. This not only creates a fairer and more equitable workplace but also
removes barriers to female employees' success.
What message would you like to convey to other women who may be hesitant to share their stories or voices in the workplace?
The one whispering doubts, questioning your worth, and urging you to stay silent. To that voice, I say this: Do not listen.
Your voice matters. Your story matters. Your unique perspective, your experiences, your strengths – they are all valuable assets that deserve to be heard. The world needs your contribution, not just for the sake of diversity and inclusion, but because you bring something truly special to the table.
Sharing your voice can be daunting, and that's okay. We've all grappled with self-doubt, with the fear of judgment or being seen as "difficult." But remember, staying silent doesn't make those challenges disappear. In fact, it can amplify them, leaving you feeling unheard and unseen. Your voice has the power to change the world, starting with your own corner of it.
Reflecting on your experiences, what piece of advice would you give to your younger self when starting your career, and how might it resonate with emerging women leaders today?
Believe in yourself, unapologetically.
It's easy to get caught up in comparing yourself to others, feeling like you need to conform to some unspoken standard or fit into a pre-existing mold. But trust me, the world needs your unique voice, your authentic perspective, your unwavering spirit. Don't dim your light to fit into someone else's shadow. Embrace your individuality, the very things that make you different, for they are your greatest strengths.
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Thank you for joining us on Alka's inspiring journey. Feel free to share your own story in the comments or join the movement by sharing your insights on Moxy Movement to make your voice heard!
