Kochi: Leadership in a male-dominated administrative system is challenging for women, but not difficult when guided by clarity of vision, said Dr. Divya S. Iyer, Managing Director of Vizhinjam International Seaport. She was speaking at a session titled “Woman in Command” at the Summit of Future, organised by Jain (Deemed to be) University.
Dr. Divya Iyer said that the Kerala Government’s decision to entrust her with the leadership of the Vizhinjam port project, despite the complex challenges surrounding it, is a powerful global statement against gender discrimination. She noted that delegations from abroad visiting the port were inspired by the fact that such a large and strategic infrastructure project is being led by a woman.
Highlighting her leadership approach, she said that the professionals working with her are highly skilled in their respective domains, and that her role is to provide them the space and freedom needed to perform, without unnecessary interference.
Speaking about parenting and public life, Dr. Divya Iyer said that interacting with strangers is an essential life skill that today’s children often miss in an increasingly isolated world. She said she has consciously taken her son to public spaces from a young age to help him develop confidence and social awareness. Time, she added, should never be a constraint when it comes to helping children pursue goals and experience the world first-hand.
She also challenged the notion that women in leadership positions should suppress emotions. Emotions, she said, are as scientific as knowledge, and expressing joy or sorrow is not a weakness but a strength that builds human connection. Working with both intellect and empathy, she added, leads to excellence in professional life.
For More Details 7034044141
