NO BARRIER TOO BIG

The world of fashion is meaningless without women. Be it the business of fashion or fashion itself, the sector would have been dreary and nondescript had it not been for the many female entrepreneurs, artists, models, decision-makers and professionals who comprise it. In this article, women in the business of fashion share their stories of diligence, perseverance and some uncalled for challenges that they took in their stride to reach where they stand today leading brands and breaking barriers!

- Tripti Mehta

'THE GOAL IS TO CONNECT, COLLABORATE, CONTRIBUTE'

LUBEINA SHAHPURWALA

CHAIRPERSON, FICCI FLO

Lubeina Shahpurwala, Chairperson, FICCI FLO, began her journey at the organisation as a key member, and was soon nominated to take on a position in the Executive Committee where she worked to achieve the goals of the Chamber as Chairperson. “I am honoured to be bestowed with this role and to be part of the FICCI FLO community where promoting economic empowerment and equal opportunity for women is the main focus. The goal is to develop and sustain a network of women business owners and professionals while working with civil society, government and the private sector," she adds.

Established in 1983, FICCI FLO, the women's wing of FICCI (Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry), is an all-India organisation for women, with 18 chapters across the nation. The Forum, headquartered in Delhi, represents over 8,000 women entrepreneurs and professionals.

Shahpurwala believes that it is essential to see more women participating in industry forums and interacting to bring to light their concerns. “Women are apprehensive to be a part of associations that are away from their comfort zone and I am very delighted to say that we have been able to create a safe space where we have seen a lot of participation by members,” she adds.