Inspirational Icons: Celebrating the Women Who Shape Our Paths

Who are your role models or female figures you look up to for inspiration, and why?

In a world teeming with incredible women who have made their mark, we often find ourselves inspired by those who have paved the way, shattered ceilings, or touched our hearts with their actions and words. Therefore, the role of female figures is pivotal to inspiring us. These women embody strength, resilience, and the unshakable belief that change is not just possible but imperative. Let's delve into the inspiring stories of Shalini, Archita, and Shivanshi and discover the remarkable women who fuel their aspirations.

Shalini, Marketing Committee Member: Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie - The Guiding Star of Equality

“Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is a remarkable woman who inspires me greatly with her stories and her ideas. She is a writer from Nigeria who has written amazing books and given powerful speeches. What I admire most about her is her courage to speak up about equality and the importance of letting everyone, no matter if they are a boy or a girl, have the same chances in life. She teaches through her words that everyone has a unique story and that we should be proud of who we are. Her book “We Should All Be Feminists” is like a guide that explains in simple terms why everyone deserves to be treated fairly. Chimamanda shows us that with words and kindness, we can change the way people think and create a world where everyone is valued. She is like a guiding star, showing me and many others that our voices are powerful and that we can make a difference, just like she has.”

Archita, External Vice President: A Sister's Wisdom

“I look up to my older sister as a source of inspiration because she has always put things into perspective for me. Although we are on opposite career paths and are very different as people, she is always someone who I can depend on for honest, unfiltered advice. She has so much wisdom about what truly matters in life and how to keep that at the center of my life.”

Shivanshi, Community Development Member: A Kaleidoscope of Inspirations

“My mom, Selena Gomez, Rihanna, Megan Thee Stallion, Gina Rodriquez!”

Sukkriti, President: Sumi Jagannathan and the Power of Self-Made Success

“Sumi Jagnathan (EY) - https://www.ey.com/en_us/people/sumi-jagannathan. A phenomenal woman who came to the US and made a name for herself on her own, without the support and resources that many people have.

My mom - I love her, she inspires me, and I hope to continue learning from her best ways to balance my personal and professional life.”

Simran, VP of Administration: Emulating Unconditional Love: A Reflection on My Mom as a Role Model

“My role model is my mom because she is the most selfless and caring person I know. She is hard-working, always thinks of others, and always has a smile on her face regardless of the circumstances. I hope I can one day be like her!”

In Berkeley Women in Business, we celebrate the diverse sources of inspiration, especially women, that we find in our lives. Whether it's the powerful words of an acclaimed writer like Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, the wisdom of a sister, or an array of iconic female figures, these sources of inspiration remind us that the world is brimming with remarkable women whose stories and actions fuel our own aspirations. In celebrating them, we empower ourselves to reach for the stars and become sources of inspiration in our own right.