'I wanted to be part of a more meaningful journey'

MALLIKA GHOSH SHARES HOW SHE’S ENRICHING MANY LIVES THROUGH PARINAAM FOUNDATION

- NAMITA GUPTA

Mallika Ghosh began her career in advertising. Before Parinaam, she was Head of Films, South India for McCann Erickson. Soon, the desire to do something meaningful with her life, brought her to the social sector and that's when Parinaam came to life. Alongside Elaine Ghosh, she developed the Financial Literacy Program (Diksha) and the Academic Adoption Program. The passing of her mother pushed her to take over the management of Parinaam and continue the work they had developed together for the Ultra Poor. Ever since, she has been personally involved in evolving Parinaam's programs to meet the needs of the day and in creating the strategic vision under which the Foundation operates today. She is personally involved in all Parinaam provides the day-to-day activities and support to the foundation needs 

1. What was your dream career in your growing-up days?

Growing up I had my aunt who spent much of her earnings on feeding Indies in her neighborhood in Cuffe Parade, South Bombay. On holidays, I would accompany her early in the morning to feed the 200+ dogs she looked after. Her day job was in advertising and she headed the Film's Department in a big agency. I idolised her and wanted to be like her, as she represented a woman who was kind but also so strong. Advertising is a difficult field to be in and it astonished me how well she did in her job and was respected amongst so many. I studied film in Boston, Emerson College and followed her path into advertising where I spent the first eight years of my career.

2. When you began your career many years ago, did you ever imagine that you would have a leadership role in this profession?