Usha C L: A Daughter's Love Takes Flight
Born and raised in a financially difficult background, I always dreamed of taking my parents on a flight to a foreign country. Fortunately, I got the chance to realize this dream. It all started when I completed one year with LTIMindtree and was posted in Pune. I used to visit my parents in Bengaluru once every two months. In 2013, it was three days before my parents’ 30th wedding anniversary, so I thought this would be the best time to surprise them. I visited my parents in Bengaluru and told them I would take them to Pune to see a few places, asking them to get ready. I usually traveled by bus, and they assumed it would be the same. But I had booked flight tickets from Bengaluru to Pune for all three of us. It was my first flight, too. I was very excited for them, as well as for myself, to see how this surprise would turn out.
On the day of travel, I told my parents that it was getting late and we needed to catch the bus quickly, so I booked a cab. When they came down and saw the airport cab, they immediately realized we were going by flight. They were amazed, and I could see the happiness and tears in their eyes. It was one of the best moments of my life when my parents first got on the plane. When the flight took off, I could see the joy and excitement of a child in them as they looked outside the window and saw the clouds below. They were literally on “Cloud Nine!”
Three months passed, and I got to visit Australia for work. After staying there for a year, I took my parents to Australia, and it was another exciting experience to travel abroad with them – the mini-TV, the food, the hospitality, different cultures, and all the foreigners. They were both delighted. They stayed with me for one and a half months. I remember my dad saying to my colleague in Australia, “I don’t feel bad for having three daughters and no son. Usha is like my son. Even if I had a son, I’m not sure he would have done all this for us.”
That was one of my proudest moments, and I had tears in my eyes. It was and is one of my life’s most memorable and exciting chapters.
Problem Solver, Change Maker, Leader: She is Usha Venkatasubramanian
I joined this organization in 2005 as a senior leader to build new competencies in data and analytics. I was assigned a team of five GETs to train in this area, and I recruited two junior colleagues: one in ETL and one in BI. From this fledgling unit, I built competencies, shaped the portfolio, penetrated various accounts through consultative selling, expanded the portfolio to cover digital tenets, and have now grown it to a level where I deliver large programs for Digital India. This was possible only because I rose to the occasion each time an opportunity came my way. All the while, I had tremendous support from my leaders. It reiterates the idea that "As long as you are ready to take up challenges, the organization will not restrict you." In recognition of my achievement in winning a USD 100 million deal and managing its delivery, I was awarded the "WILL" award in 2017, the first year of its establishment.
While the award was a pinnacle in my career, I am proud of several other professional achievements, starting with being a university topper in my Master's program at MIT, Madras (Chennai). My experience working in organizations like TCS, PAMA - Kuwait, and MOI - Abu Dhabi helped shape my detail orientation and client-facing abilities. Moreover, those experiences enhanced my knowledge of emerging markets and steered my growth into a techno-managerial role. Recently, I have taken on an additional role in running the DIWA initiative – thanks to my leader, Jitendra Putcha, who had faith in me and has guided me throughout. For those unaware, DIWA stands for Diversity and Inclusion for Women in AI & Data. As part of this initiative, we host sessions by accomplished women leaders from client/partner organizations who hold roles such as CDO, CTO, CIO, and CEO. These sessions are inspirational, especially seeing women passionate about their careers and technology. Special thanks to all the champions of the DIWA initiative who have supported it.
Success comes with its challenges. In 2015, when I worked on a large deal, there were several issues. LTIMindtree lacked functional expertise, which was the biggest challenge. I highlighted this upfront to the management, sought their guidance, and a partnership was forged – the first ever in LTIMindtree's history, partnering with a Big 4 firm. The technology heat map showed several "Red" tiles. Continuous focus on clarifying all the unknowns yielded a world-class proposal response and garnered great appreciation from the client. The testament to our excellent solution and impeccable delivery came when we secured another project from the customer – a customer-facing application – which my team delivered flawlessly. Just imagine a solution that handles the financial liabilities of approximately 300 million Indians, providing ample details and superb performance! I want to thank my team from the bottom of my heart for working diligently on the solution and making it a great success.
Family and career are like two eyes to me; I try to give them equal weight. I prioritized my family when selecting my first job (as a lecturer at a university). I have paid adequate attention to my family at various stages of my personal life. However, I still haven't had a career break. I was pregnant with my first child at 26; I had signed up for specific work and was committed to it. I made sure I finished the work activities before proceeding on maternity leave.
When I had my second child, I played a critical role in my assignment. So, I returned to work in 45 days. It was go-live, and I had to go to the office late in the evening and run all the production go-live checklists with my team. I took my 60-day-old baby to work – she was a darling daughter who slept for a while in her baby basket, woke up, looked around at the bright lights in the office, and was well-behaved. I also finished my work quickly, delegated responsibilities to my team, and returned home to let my baby sleep comfortably in her usual crib. I also connected with my team to track the progress. Years later, when my elder daughter was pregnant, I planned my work, informed my leader and my teams to ensure that all work would progress smoothly, and took off for two months. I supported my daughter during her confinement and post-delivery until the baby was 60 days old. The December 2015 floods in Chennai were an unforgettable experience! I had to travel multiple times to Delhi and Mumbai for work. I never relented – Mother Nature forced me to stay in Mumbai for a week without communication with my family! My family has been my most extraordinary support in all situations, and this one deserves special mention!
I have had to prioritize between family and work at various career stages. However, I could do it easily without any guilt on either side. Family should be the highest priority for every professional – male or female.
Today's world is fast-moving. New technologies, new ways of working, and new norms emerge daily. There are many learning options through our own Shoshin school. A "can-do" mindset will enable us to overcome all constraints and move up the ladder. Rather than solving all problems alone, I have learned to involve my seniors, peers, and subordinates. The answer might come from anywhere! I advise everyone to seize opportunities, even if the capabilities do not yet exist. Where there is a will, there is a way!
Amol Natu: A Marathon Journey to Self-Care
Balancing work, family, and passion can be complex — or so I used to think. When I was in Miami as a client partner, I spent a significant portion of the day working and the remaining time with my family, leaving little to no room to pursue my passion for sports or hobbies. Miami was also a city where people could easily be spotted exercising or engaging in sporting activities. Yet, I couldn't find the motivation to start running.
My lack of self-focus led to irregular sleeping and unhealthy eating habits, even in Miami, where I saw people exercising everywhere.
The Motivation to Change
In 2016, I decided to head to the local beach for some relaxation but couldn't make it as the streets were closed for the Miami Marathon. Impressed by the marathon participants' dedication, I was intrigued and decided to join the following year. However, I knew I wasn't fit enough to complete the marathon. At the time, I worked with a client with whom I occasionally played golf. I was often the second-best player, a fact he frequently teased me about. I knew golf might not be the right sport to get the better of him. This realization was the spark I needed to ignite my passion for running.
Training to Become Fit
I trained for a year, developing healthy sleeping patterns, incorporating exercise slowly and steadily into my routine, and improving my diet. Like everyone, I struggled initially, even considering giving up. Despite being unable to give my 100% initially, I consistently dedicated some time to this newfound motivation – the bare minimum I could spare. In hindsight, this consistency is the key to my transformation today. Completing my first marathon gave me a sense of jubilation I had never felt before, and since then, I have never looked back. While I couldn't beat my golf partner at his impeccable golfing skills, I teased him about his heavy breathing when I pulled him along in marathons. I am happy that this motivated him to focus on his fitness and remain healthy.
Making it a Discipline
What I used to believe I barely had time for now feels like an integral part of my daily routine. My motivation to run marathons improved my lifestyle by allowing me to find time for self-care through healthy eating, regular exercise, and improved sleeping patterns.
As a result, I gained a more positive approach to life, started to face challenges with increased confidence, and found time for past hobbies, such as playing Dhol-Taasha, which I am practicing again.
Dhol-Taasha: A New Journey
Dhol-Taasha is a tradition associated with the Ganapati procession in Maharashtra, India, where people passionately form teams and play the Dhol. The Dhol is a large, double-sided barrel drum. During the Ganpati ceremony, thousands of Dhol players form groups and march in a procession, playing tunes that praise Lord Ganesha. It requires 3 hours of practice daily for at least 45 days. These extended hours of training demand a high level of fitness. This experience taught me valuable lessons about teamwork and the importance of dedicated, regular practice. I realized that applying this formula in my daily life, professionally and personally, is essential.
My Two Cents
In my journey, I realized that the only thing we need to change is not our lack of time but how we prioritize it. Focusing on self-care must be at the top of our priorities for a quality life. If you are passionate about something, you should dedicate yourself to it wholeheartedly.
Shilpa Bhaskaran: A Symphony of Support, Welcoming New Beginnings
As I embarked on my pregnancy journey at LTIMindtree, a beautiful tale unfolded, filled with support and camaraderie. Picture this — a team, not just colleagues, but a family in the making. My incredible comrades from the CSR team and leaders like Paneesh Rao stood by me, their support a beacon of light amid transformation.
The challenge? Balancing the wonders of impending motherhood with the ongoing dedication to our community projects. At times, the weight felt overwhelming. Doubts crept in about sustaining effective contributions amidst preparations for the journey ahead.
But oh, how we responded! Like a well-oiled machine fueled by the essence of LTIMindtree's values. My team didn't just reassure me; they enveloped me in a cocoon of care. Project timelines were adjusted seamlessly, and tasks were generously shared, ensuring every step was a testament to inclusion and support. Our response radiated empathy, inclusivity, and teamwork in the face of personal milestones — no bias, no hesitation, just pure, unadulterated support, mirroring the ethos of LTIMindtree.
This journey — it's been a teacher. It taught me to cherish genuine support and value understanding in the workplace. Together, we proved that with empathy and compassion, no challenge is insurmountable.
At LTIMindtree, this isn't just a story; it's a mantra. An attitude of unwavering support woven into the fabric of our interactions. A culture where everyone thrives, personally and professionally, in an environment of inclusivity and empathy. Reflecting on this journey, I'm reminded of a moment — a virtual baby shower, a symphony of well-wishes and love from my CSR family. This is a reminder of the vibrant, nurturing community we've cultivated at LTIMindtree — a community where support knows no bounds.
Brokerized Minds: Shaping the Future of Insurance Brokerage at LTIMindtree
At LTIMindtree, a challenge arose: highlighting the team's insurance brokerage expertise in a changing industry. Ajit Borwankar, a visionary leader, asked a crucial question during a strategic planning session: "How can we prepare for the future while showcasing our unique strengths?" This sparked an initiative that would reshape their trajectory.
Ajit's conversations with clients revealed a critical need: a specialized training program for brokerage professionals. Thus, "Brokerized Minds" was born. He envisioned a learning environment where team members could speak the language of brokers, not just insurers.
"We need to build something ourselves," Ajit announced, inspiring his team. He assembled a group of experts with extensive brokerage experience to develop a comprehensive training program. This wasn't just another course; it was a strategic initiative to equip the team for future challenges.
When the program launched in early 2023, excitement filled LTIMindtree. Employees embraced the initiative, recognizing its potential to enhance their skills and client interactions. The training sessions fostered connections, building camaraderie and a shared identity among participants.
The impact was immediate and significant. New hires appreciated the onboarding, feeling prepared and aligned with the brokerage community. Senior professionals found the training insightful, sharing stories about how it broadened their perspectives. One senior team member remarked, "We recently secured a major deal, and our understanding of brokerage was the key to success!"
Ajit knew the program needed to adapt to remain effective. Regular updates and new modules reflecting industry trends ensured that "Brokerized Minds" stayed ahead of the curve. This commitment to continuous learning demonstrated the organization's dedication to excellence.
The initiative fostered a stronger sense of community. Team members connected, shared knowledge, and grew together, creating a culture of collaboration and innovation.
Ajit's vision had sparked a cultural shift. By emphasizing initiative, courage, and perseverance, LTIMindtree cultivated a workplace where everyone felt valued and empowered.
As the program thrived, it became clear that "Brokerized Minds" was more than just training—a movement toward a future-ready organization. Ajit's words at a recent team meeting resonated deeply: "In a rapidly changing world, staying prepared is not an option; it's a necessity. Our agility today determines our success tomorrow."
The Shakti Initiative: Transforming Leadership with Compassion
"To lead is not to walk ahead of others but to walk beside them," Meenakshi once said, her eyes reflecting a deep-seated resolve. In her role as a leader, Meenakshi faced a Herculean challenge: increasing the representation of women within her service line. Initially, women comprised only 28% of the workforce, which Meenakshi was determined to improve.
Driven by purpose and passion, Meenakshi launched an initiative called Shakti. Its mission was clear: to help women advance from entry-level to mid-management and empower them to take on decision-making roles. The initiative also tackled the practical challenges women faced, such as maternity breaks and balancing personal issues with career aspirations.
"We cannot afford to let talent go unrecognized because of life's unpredictable turns," Meenakshi emphasized. One standout story is that of a woman who had taken a break to care for her two children. Hesitant to return to work, she feared the added responsibilities would be overwhelming. With her characteristic compassion, Meenakshi offered tailored technical training and unwavering support. The company provided a comprehensive learning platform, allowing this woman to showcase her skills on a project that matched her expertise.
Assigned to a critical MES implementation project, she exceeded all expectations. Despite the high pressure and technical demands, her efforts culminated in a customer satisfaction score of 4.6, one of the highest ever recorded. Her performance was met with widespread acclaim, proving that women can excel even in the most challenging environments with the proper support.
Another compelling story involved a woman with a disabled child requiring frequent medical care. Meenakshi ensured she could work from home, allowing her to manage both her professional and personal responsibilities effectively. "Flexibility isn't a luxury; it's a necessity," Meenakshi stated. Assigned a crucial module with a tight deadline, she and her team exceeded expectations, completing the project a week before schedule and earning high praise from the client.
Through Shakti, the percentage of women in Meenakshi's service line increased to 29.45%. Though the increase may seem modest, it was a significant achievement considering the service line's small size. Meenakshi's initiative not only enhanced the representation of women but also highlighted their invaluable contributions to the company's success.
Meenakshi's story illustrates the transformative power of compassion and proactive support. By understanding the unique challenges faced by women and addressing them with tailored solutions, she fostered an inclusive environment where both employees and clients thrived. Her strategic mindset and empathetic leadership demonstrated that thoughtful leadership could drive meaningful change.
"The true measure of leadership," Meenakshi often said, "is not in the numbers you achieve, but in the lives you touch and transform." Her journey is a testament to the transformative power of purpose-driven leadership, showing that challenges can be turned into triumphs and dreams come true.
LTIMindtree is a global technology consulting and digital solutions company that enables enterprises across industries to reimagine business models, accelerate innovation, and maximize growth by harnessing digital technologies. As a digital transformation partner to more than 700 clients, LTIMindtree brings extensive domain and technology expertise to help drive superior competitive differentiation, customer experiences, and business outcomes in a converging world. Powered by 82,000+ talented and entrepreneurial professionals across more than 30 countries, LTIMindtree — a Larsen & Toubro Group company — solves the most complex business challenges and delivers transformation at scale. For more information, please visit https://www.ltimindtree.com/.