ITIHASA

There is a Tomorrow - Meeting with Dr. Nandini Rangaswamy

In a world where education and entrepreneurship intersect, there stands a beacon of inspiration, a leader whose journey epitomizes resilience and empowerment. Meet Dr. Nandini Rangaswamy, a trailblazer in education and entrepreneurship, whose insights shed light on the transformative power of education and the challenges and opportunities facing women in entrepreneurship. Dr. Nandini Rangaswamy, a prominent figure in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, serves as both the Managing Director of the Chandra Group of Companies and the Chairperson of GRG Institutions. Under her leadership, the Chandra Group oversees various businesses, including textiles and automotive, while GRG Institutions manage over 10 educational centers, catering from primary to doctoral programs. Dr. Nandini Rangaswamy has a strong commitment to women empowerment and aiding underprivileged communities. She has spearheaded initiatives such as providing education to thousands of students, supporting women's self-help groups, and establishing educational facilities in rural areas.

Born into the PSG family, which is a pioneer and deeply entrenched in the education sector, Dr. Nandini Rangaswamy embarked on a journey that was not just about degrees but about empowerment. Inspired by her mother-in-law Dr. Chandrakanthi Govindarajulu a visionary leader with a profound understanding of education's role in shaping destinies, Dr. Nandini Rangaswamy embraced the mantle of empowering women through education.With affection and pride, Dr. Nandini Rangaswamy fondly acknowledges her mother-in-law as her foremost and powerful source of inspiration, and that nobody can she hold dearest in her journey.

The words from her resonate with a sense of purpose and urgency as she delves into the evolving landscape of education, emphasizing the need to move beyond mere degree-granting institutions. According to her, educationists today bear the responsibility of not just imparting knowledge but also equipping students with the skills necessary to thrive in a dynamic, tech-driven world. Dr. Nandini Rangaswamy acknowledges the shifting aspirations of today's youth, particularly women, who no longer conform to traditional career paths. She highlights the emergence of a "gig economy" where individuals seek diverse avenues for self-expression and fulfillment, transcending the confines of conventional professions.

Dr. Nandini Rangaswamy's influence extends to various professional associations. She is the chairperson of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII-SR). She believes that, as a chairperson, She should fulfil the organization's expectations, considering them as the foremost priority. As the conversation delves deeper into the realm of entrepreneurship and leadership, Dr. Nandini Rangaswamy offers invaluable insights into the role of family businesses in India's economic landscape. “Numerous esteemed institutions worldwide operate as family businesses, reflecting the belief that greatness often stems from the collective efforts of every family member”, she added. While acknowledging the contributions that come with stability, she advocates for the professionalization of the business to foster inclusive growth.

The dialogue shifts towards the challenges women face in balancing familial responsibilities with professional aspirations. Dr. Nandini Rangaswamy highlights the pervasive issue of women exiting the workforce due to caregiving duties, underscoring the need for supportive policies and reintegration programs to retain female talent. She advocates for providing women with the necessary flexibility for family responsibilities while emphasizing the significance of preparing them for a successful return to work and fostering a supportive environment to facilitate their comeback. In addressing the underrepresentation of women in startups, Dr. Nandini Rangaswamy emphasizes the importance of mentorship and ecosystem support. She acknowledges the strides made in this regard but underscores the need for sustained efforts to create an enabling environment for female entrepreneurs, especially in rural areas.

Throughout the conversation, Dr. Nandini Rangaswamy exudes a sense of optimism tempered with pragmatism. Her vision for empowering women through education and entrepreneurship is not just aspirational but rooted in actionable strategies and collaborative efforts. Dr. Nandini Rangaswamy's journey exemplifies the transformative power of education and entrepreneurship in shaping lives and driving societal change. Her insights guide aspiring leaders, advocating for a future where women are not just participants but pioneers in shaping their destinies and the world around them.

Drawing from her own experiences and observations, Dr. Nandini Rangaswamy underscores the importance of resilience and perseverance in overcoming obstacles. She dispels the illusion of overnight success, emphasizing the arduous journey marked by setbacks and challenges that ultimately shape one's character. “There is a Tomorrow”

|| Dharmo Rakshati Rakshitah ||

Vigneshwaran, Senior Correspondent of TheVerandahClub.com is both a skilled digital content writer and marketer by profession, as well as an avid independent writer driven by his passion. His literary talents extend to crafting beautiful poems and captivating short stories including the Sehwag Tales series. In addition to these creative pursuits, he has also authored a book titled "Halahala," which can be found on Wattpad.