The Confederation of Indian Industry’s Indian Women Network (IWN) Chandigarh Tricity Chapter on Thursday hosted the Women Leadership Summit 2025 at CII Northern Region headquarters. Under the theme “Redefining Boundaries: From Barriers to Breakthroughs,” over 200 women professionals, entrepreneurs, policy-makers and industry leaders came together to share transformational journeys, tackle systemic challenges and forge strategies for sustained leadership success.

Ms Ritika Singh, Chairwoman of IWN Chandigarh Tricity and Founder of Kontent Factory, opened the proceedings, welcoming attendees: “It is an honour to welcome such an inspiring gathering of women leaders, changemakers, and future trailblazers to the Indian Women Network Chandigarh Tricity Chapter Women Leadership Summit 2025. This summit is not just a celebration of leadership, but a call to action—to empower, uplift, and unlock the immense potential women bring to every sphere of life. Together, let us continue building a future where leadership has no gender, only vision.”

Dr Reetinder Mohan, Past Chairwoman of IWN Chandigarh Tricity and Adviser to The Aroma Group, provided context by highlighting the importance of collaborative ecosystems. Ms Trisha Rajani Vaidya, Founder & Ex-COO of Dr Vaidya’s and Angel Investor, shared insights on scaling purpose-driven enterprises. Ms Sakshi Katyal, Co-Chair of IWN Chandigarh Tricity and Founder of Jade Xclusive, closed the inaugural session with a vote of thanks.

“Empowering women leaders is not just a matter of equity—it is a strategic imperative for inclusive growth and innovation. At CII, through platforms like the Indian Women Network, we are committed to fostering an environment where women professionals can thrive, lead, and transform the future of business and society.”

Ms Trisha Rajani Vaidya, Founder & Ex-COO of Dr Vaidya’s and Angel Investor, shared insights on scaling purpose-driven enterprises. Ms Sakshi Katyal, Co-Chair of IWN Chandigarh Tricity and Founder of Jade Xclusive, closed the inaugural session with a vote of thanks.

The afternoon’s fireside chat, moderated by Ms Singh, featured Ms Shaily Mehrotra, CEO & Founder of Fixderma India, on building brands with both innovation and social impact. In Panel Discussion 1: “Beyond the Glass Ceiling,” moderated by Mr Rajiv Gupta (Founder, Reverentia), experts examined resilience, mentorship and policy advocacy. Mr Gupta underscored:

“Women have long powered Indian family businesses from behind the scenes—now, they’re leading from the front. In a fast-changing world, the Owners & Promoters Program equips next-gen leaders with the tools, frameworks, and real-world insight needed to scale legacy into lasting impact.”

Panel Discussion 2, led by Mr Anupam Gakhar, showcased “Innovating Leadership: Women Pioneering Change in Emerging Industries,” with voices from technology, renewable energy and education. The summit concluded with closing remarks by Ms Katyal and a networking dinner, where attendees committed to translate today’s breakthroughs into policy reforms, organizational practices and community initiatives that advance gender-inclusive growth.

Quote from Trisha: As women entrepreneurs, we’re no longer just inheriting legacies - we’re reimagining them. Today’s business landscape demands agility, authenticity and a sharp understanding of the consumer. The Owners & Promoters Program gives next gen leaders the edge not just to sustain what’s been built, but to scale it with purpose, modernity, and heart.