#Superwomen2019 Never compromise on your dreams: Smita Thorat, Brandniti

Smita Thorat, Founder & CEO at Brandniti & 9amstories.com, sheds light on what makes a superwoman stand out from the rest and on her journey as she emerges one of the winners of Social Samosa's #Superwomen2019.

Having held the leadership positions at various organizations for more than a decade, Smita Thorat shares her thoughts on the evolving M&A industry. The leader defines the superwoman within herself and advises the budding talent to never give up on their dreams.

How would you define a Superwoman in today's day and
age? 

In today’s time, a Superwoman is the one who claims her space in the arena of the competitive business dynamics with as much conviction and rightfulness as her male counterparts. She conducts her business as well as her personal priorities with equal grace and charisma. 

One quality that you think every superwoman has and that
helped you win Social Samosa Superwomen...

One identifiable quality every Superwoman has is that all of them possess a ‘never say quit’ attitude. By default, we human beings are characterized by almost the same level of intelligence. However, what makes a winner stand out is her undeniable hunger to win over obstacles.

Personally, I believe this is what makes me a fighter too. I don’t like to be defeated by a challenge and don’t feel at rest until I come over it. I think this is one quality I possess which helps me to run my business in an effective manner. Thanks to Social Samosa for recognizing the Superwoman in me.

How successful have women been in shattering the glass
ceiling in the Media & Advertising field? Does the 'boardroom inequality'
phrase still stand true? 

In the media and advertising industry too, we are noticing a continuously increasing representation of women in the top management and even in the mid-level. Women are taking up diverse decision-making roles in media agencies and every day they are seen to be breaking gender stereotypes.

Though we are yet to reach the point of complete boardroom equality, but I feel lucky that I am from the generation, which is witnessing this positive trend who don’t need others to support their career growth.

What are the key changes this industry needs in order to make workplaces gender-neutral, safe, and nurturing?

I believe, the only thing we should change is our outlook. If a woman is breaking grounds and writing her own success story, the last thing she wants is being judged on the basis of her gender and where she comes from.

Also read: #Superwomen2019: Failures are the biggest teachers says Neha Gupta, Google

As far as the safety at the workplace is concerned, it’s
a long way to go I suppose. Until the time, we stop objectifying women and look
at them with equal neutrality, complete women safety can’t be achieved.
However, my personal experience says that it’s a lot better than before and at
least in Mumbai, we have started seeing some real differences. 

One Superpower you wish you had? 

If
I had a Superpower, I wish I had the ability to add additional hours in a day
and a few extra days to the year, so that I could travel the world and make the
most of the leisure time!

The 'Superwomen' you diligently follow and who inspired
you... 

The Superwomen whom I have admired and followed is my “Mother” for the courage and the never give up attitude in life.

One tip to women out there attempting to scale
heights... 

I have just one thing to say to all the upcoming talents that never give up if you have a dream to make it big. The path to success is always filled with roadblocks and challenges. That shouldn’t be a deterrent for you.

No matter what your situations are, you should never
compromise on your dreams.