Women Startup Stories

As environmental awareness heightens, sustainable is becoming a beacon of change. Enter UpcycleLuxe, a trailblazing fashion-tech platform launched on October 13, 2020, which epitomizes the mantra: "Green is the new Luxury." Harshita Chandra the visionary Founder and CEO of UpcycleLuxe. At 30, Harshita has transitioned from engineer and fashion technologist to social entrepreneur, leading a movement in sustainable fashion. Harshita’s journey to Upcycleluxe began during her Master’s studies in fashion technology at NIFT Delhi. Internships at renowned export houses exposed her to the fashion industry's dark side: toxic work environments, wasteful practices, and unethical consumption of resources. Witnessing heaps of discarded samples and cancelled shipments sparked her curiosity and concern. In 2017, she launched a venture to upcycle factory waste into bags and accessories, gaining insight into sustainable fashion and consumer behavior. Despite limited awareness and fragmented supply chains, Harshita realized that real change required a unified platform. Joined by co-founders Kartikey Chandra and @shubham Jain, she established UpcycleLuxe—an integrated, science-based platform evaluating the environmental impact of fashion products. Fashion is notorious for its environmental footprint, contributing 10% of global emissions and consuming vast amounts of water. UpcycleLuxe challenges this by adhering to the "triple bottom line" principle—People, Planet, and Prosperity. Their platform’s impact index evaluates brands on sustainability metrics, urging them to rethink their practices beyond raw materials. Launched during the Covid-19 pandemic, UpcycleLuxe leverages digital outreach to promote global sustainability. The platform’s rigorous vetting process avoids greenwashing by verifying certifications like GOTS and B Corporation, ensuring transparency and authenticity. Sustainable fashion is gaining traction in India, and UpcycleLuxe aims to be at the forefront. Their goal is to offer a viable alternative to fast fashion and expand their reach to global markets. By 2025, they hope to influence a billion consumers to make eco-conscious choices. Technology is pivotal in UpcycleLuxe’s approach.By employing data-driven insights, they calculate each product’s environmental footprint, including carbon emissions, water usage, and energy savings. This transparency empowers consumers to understand the true impact of their purchases, fostering a culture of informed, responsible buying. UpcycleLuxe supports artisanal craftsmanship and local industries, promoting fair labor practices and celebrating traditional skills. Harshita’s dedication to transforming fashion into a force for good is reshaping how we view luxury.UpcycleLuxe is more than a marketplace it’s a movement towards a greener, more conscious world, where every purchase contributes to a better future. Madhuri Awande Visit our website: https://lnkd.in/dwVWAA33 #fashion #startup

Uptownie founded in Kolkata in 2015, is more than just a fashion brand; it’s a movement designed to meet the needs of the contemporary Indian woman. Born from a vision to offer stylish, comfortable clothing that resonates with individual preferences, Uptownie has become a trusted name in women’s fashion. Each piece is a reflection of meticulous attention to detail, ensuring a perfect balance of fit, fabric, and flair. The brand empowers Indian women to express their individuality with confidence and elegance. At the core of Uptownie’s success is a commitment to creating fuss-free, fashionable clothing that caters to the diverse needs of Indian women. Designs are crafted with precision, considering factors like height, body type, and climate. The factory in Ganganagar, West Bengal, operates with a focus on sustainability, producing durable garments at accessible prices. The brand keeps pace with global trends, updating its catalog weekly to offer fresh, stylish options that adhere to the highest standards of quality and comfort. Priyanka Agarwal the visionary behind Uptownie, brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to the brand. With degrees from Duke University in Economics, Math, Marketing, and Visual Arts, and backed by 40 years of family legacy in manufacturing and exports, Priyanka drives the brand’s mission to challenge beauty norms and celebrate individuality. Over eight years and 10,000 designs later, Priyanka’s leadership has been pivotal in Uptownie’s growth and success. Her sister Shivani Agarwal joined uptownie. Leading the charge at Uptownie, a direct-to-consumer western wear brand, Shivani transitioned from a legal career to join her sister's entrepreneurial journey. Together, they are dedicated to creating a one-stop shop for Indian women, offering clothes meticulously designed and stitched to cater to the unique aspects of their bodies—height, hips, and skin tones. Uptownie’s strength lies in its dynamic team of young Indian women who bring energy, creativity, and an understanding of customer needs to the table. The brand’s growth is reflected in its expanding team and a strong online presence, with over 250,000 Instagram followers. As Uptownie prepares to enter the offline retail space by 2025, the brand is set to continue its journey of empowering women through fashion, embracing global trends while staying rooted in Indian culture. Madhuri Awande Visit our website: https://lnkd.in/dwVWAA33 #womenfounder #startup #d2c #fashionbrand #entrepreneur #business

Diana Pundole, a mother of two, was on the brink of accepting a teaching job in Pune when destiny took a sharp turn. An ad for the Nationwide Talent Hunt for Women in Motorsport caught her eye, setting her on a path that would redefine her life. With unwavering determination, Diana transformed her identity crisis into a historic triumph, becoming the first Indian woman to claim the MRF Saloons title at the National Car Racing Championship 2024 in Chennai. Her journey, marked by resilience and strength, was fueled by the memory of her late father, her greatest supporter. Born into a Parsi family in Pune, Diana's early life was dedicated to education. After earning her MA in English literature in 2015, she set aside her part-time teaching job to pursue further studies. Marriage and motherhood followed, but a sense of longing for something more lingered. In 2018, as she prepared to return to teaching, she stumbled upon the motorsport talent hunt. With her love for riding a Harley Davidson Fat Boy, she decided to take a leap of faith. Competing against 200 girls from across the nation, Diana secured a spot in the top six, earning a year-long sponsorship that would change her life. Despite no formal training and facing advanced male racers, Diana was the only woman who consistently raced, as others gradually dropped out. Her dedication and belief in a higher power guiding her led to a turning point in her life. Diana’s journey is a powerful reminder that sometimes, the most extraordinary paths begin with a single, bold decision.

Neelu Khatri story is one of unwavering resolve, pioneering spirit, and breaking new ground in male-dominated arenas. Her journey began with a simple yet powerful question: "Do you have it in you?"—a message she encountered in a Times of India ad calling for women to join the Indian Air Force. That moment sparked a path that would see her defy societal expectations and step into a role few women had ever held. As one of the first women to be inducted into the Indian Air Force, Neelu Khatri served as a Wing Commander, facing not only the challenges of military life but also the deeply entrenched gender biases of the time. Despite being initially overlooked by her male counterparts, she persevered, making her mark in an environment where women were often seen as mere decorations rather than equals. After over 25 years of trailblazing in the Civil Aviation and Aerospace industry, including significant roles at Honeywell and KPMG, Khatri joined as co-founder Akasa Air in 2021. Her leadership as Senior Vice President, International Operations, has been instrumental in launching India’s newest airline, which prides itself on being inclusive, affordable, and innovative. At Akasa Air, Khatri continues to embody her belief that the sky should be for everyone. She and her team have built an airline with the greenest and youngest fleet in the country, committed to delivering warm, efficient customer service and reliable operations. With a tech-driven approach and a deep-rooted culture of empathy, Akasa Air is set to redefine air travel in India. Neelu Khatri’s journey from a small-town girl to a co-founder of a groundbreaking airline is a testament to her tenacity and vision. She has not only shattered the glass ceiling but has also paved the way for future generations of women to dream big and take flight, proving that the sky is truly the limit. Madhuri Awande Visit our website: https://lnkd.in/dwVWAA33 #WomenInAviation #Leadership #WomenInBusiness #Inspiration #BreakingBarriers #Aviation #Entrepreneurship #WomenEmpowerment #DreamBig #SkyIsTheLimit #AkasaAir #IndianAirForce

Navya Naveli Nanda journey is a powerful testament to the impact one determined individual can have on society. As the founder of Project Naveli Navya has dedicated herself to bridging the persistent gender gap in India. Her vision of a gender-equal world isn't just a dream; it's a mission she's actively pursuing through entrepreneurship and social activism. Project Naveli is more than just an initiative—it's a movement to tackle the deep-rooted issue of gender inequality in India. Focusing on four critical areas—Education, Domestic Violence, Economic Independence, and Mental and Physical Health—Navya is determined to create a society where girls and boys are equally supported in reaching their full potential. She understands that true change begins at home, with the language we use, the actions we take, and the opportunities we provide. By involving men—brothers, fathers, and husbands—in this fight, Navya aims to create a more inclusive society that values and celebrates women for who they are. But Navya's commitment to gender equality doesn't stop there. She is also the co-founder of Nimaya Foundation a non-profit organization working to close the gender and privilege gap in the workplace. Alongside Samyak Chakrabarty Navya is ensuring that women from restrictive circumstances are given the opportunity to cultivate their dreams and build inspiring careers. Through Nimaya's career accelerator, women are equipped with essential skills, one-on-one mentoring, and exposure to emerging technologies, all aimed at transforming their aspirations into tangible achievements. Navya's work extends beyond her own ventures. She collaborates closely with the CSR team of Escorts Kubota, focusing on skill development and relief for farmers. As a gender ally with UN Women her efforts are globally recognized, further amplifying her impact on the fight for gender equality. Navya Naveli Nanda's story is one of relentless dedication, visionary leadership, and a deep commitment to creating a better, more equal world. Through Project Naveli and Nimaya, she is not only advocating for women's rights but also actively working to dismantle the barriers that have held women back for centuries. Her journey serves as an inspiration to all, proving that with determination and the right platform, we can all be agents of change.Madhuri Awande Visit our website: https://lnkd.in/dwVWAA33 #womenfounder #startup #womenempowerment #genderdiversity #WorkplaceEquality #BreakingBarriers #InspiringWomen #NonProfit #EducationForAll #CareerOpportunities #DiversityAndInclusion #WomenLeadership #SocialEntrepreneurship

Sarika Gupta Bhattacharyya is a visionary leader dedicated to transforming businesses and education through the power of inclusion. Her journey into the realm of social impact began in 2011, driven by a passion for creating businesses that generate positive social and economic change. Today, Sarika is channeling her energy into reimagining higher education. In her role with Plaksha University, she spearheads fundraising, donor engagement, and industry partnerships to build a cutting-edge tech university through collective philanthropy. This ambitious project aims to reshape the landscape of higher education and nurture future innovators. With over two decades of experience in investment banking at Merrill Lynch and ICICI Bank, Sarika has navigated diverse markets and built strong client relationships across continents. Her career has been marked by breaking barriers and forging new paths. As a board member and advisor for various non-profits and startups, Sarika continues to contribute to social innovation and leadership. As an investment banker, she often found herself as the sole woman in the room, facing skepticism. Yet, her unwavering belief in her abilities and relentless preparation enabled her to turn these challenges into opportunities. Her advice for those embarking on their careers is to continuously reinvest in their skills, personal brand, and networks. Staying updated with industry trends and evolving work cultures is crucial for sustained success. Creating a gender-neutral STEM curriculum, providing role models, and enhancing early opportunities are essential steps toward closing the gap. Sarika advocates for inclusive admission policies and robust support systems to ensure women can thrive in STEM fields. Despite progress, women remain underrepresented in STEM roles,and addressing this imbalance is crucial for driving forward technological advancements. Women are central to advancing sustainable solutions.However,they are still underrepresented in the green economy, which limits the potential for transformative environmental progress. Increasing female representation on boards enhances corporate performance and ethical leadership.Yet,women’s presence in boardrooms remains insufficient, necessitating more inclusive practices. Providing women with access to financial services is fundamental for economic development and gender equality.Increased financial inclusion can significantly boost economic growth and resilience. Sarika’s vision is clear: women are not just part of the future—they are shaping it. Each woman's journey contributes to a more sustainable, inclusive, and equitable world. By continuing to build inclusive workplaces and educational ecosystems, Sarika and her team at BeyonDiversity are setting the stage for a future where diversity drives innovation and success.Madhuri Awande Visit our website: https://lnkd.in/dwVWAA33 #startup #womenfounder #diversity #entrepreneur #genderbiases