A bright afternoon in New Delhi, buzzing with excitement and the air thick with inspiration and excitement – this was the atmosphere at the India Habitat Centre as Women Listed hosted the 4th edition of the ‘Celebrating Excellence Awards 2024.’ An afternoon of accolades, stories of entrepreneurship, and an overwhelming sense of community, this event wasn’t just about awards; it was about women supporting women!
Founded by the dynamic Meeta Gutgutia, Women Listed has been at the forefront of empowering women entrepreneurs in India. With over 3,000 women-led businesses forming a thriving network, this initiative goes beyond mere recognition—it fosters leadership, mentorship, and growth. And the ‘Celebrating Excellence’ Awards have become a prestigious platform to spotlight those who dare to dream, build, and lead.
Women Listed is a listing platform for women that has been dedicated to bring them visibility, support and recognition, to its growing network of over 3,000 women entrepreneurs and practitioners. The ‘Celebrating Excellence’ Awards have become a significant event in this journey that brings together hardworking and determined women building their innovative and growing businesses.
4th Edition of Celebrating Excellence Awards
Since its inception in 2021, the ‘Celebrating Excellence’ Awards have been dedicated to spotlighting inspiring women from diverse fields. The 4th edition was grander than ever, as it opened up for nominations, inviting women entrepreneurs, professionals, and experts to showcase their achievements.
Out of over 2400 entries, 148 nominees were shortlisted for the final Awards. The competition was fierce as each nominee represented a remarkable journey of ambition and perseverance. Among the esteemed jury were Ms. Poonam Barua (Founder and CEO of WILL Forum India), Dr. Ananta Singh Raghuvanshi (Chairperson & Founder NAREDCO Mahi), and Dr. Prerna Kohli (Awarded Clinical Psychologist) – powerhouses in their own right, ensuring that each winner was truly deserving of their recognition.
The event wasn’t just about the trophies; it was a melting pot of ideas, insights, and powerful conversations. One of the most riveting discussions of the afternoon revolved around the theme: ‘Why Visibility Matters to Women Entrepreneurs in India’. Featuring an expert panel with Meeta Gutgutia, Poonam Barua, and Simran Khara (Founder & CEO of Koparo Clean), this discussion emphasized the importance of representation, networking, and breaking barriers for women-led businesses.
More Than an Award – A Movement towards Visibility
Speaking about the significance of the event, Meeta Gutgutia shared, “The Celebrating Excellence Awards is more than just recognition at Women Listed- it’s a movement empowering women entrepreneurs. Following its successful 4th edition, our mission to uplift, connect, and celebrate their resilience has resonated across India. With over 3,000 women-led businesses in the community, Women Listed continues to foster an ecosystem where women thrive, lead, and inspire. We are thrilled to associate with the WILL India Forum as a partner for their April Leadership Program. Additionally, expert-led online learning sessions will be introduced for women entrepreneurs starting this month.”
Meet the Change-Makers
From innovative business ideas to social enterprises making a difference, this year 15 Winners were selected at the Awards Event. Among the winners were Vishakha Bhaskkar, Founder of Angrakhaa, who is redefining plus-size fashion; Megha Arora of 3TENX, building a haircare brand; and Meeta Nagpal, Co-Founder of Musical Dreams, a talent scouting and management agency for musician and artists.
Adding to the diverse pool of winners – Akshi Khandelwal, Founder & CEO of Butterfly Ayurveda and Café Swasthya, is revolutionizing wellness through Ayurveda, while Nishita Thakur, Co-Founder & Business Head of KidsCur, is transforming healthcare for kids with her tech platform. Praneeta Kumar Shringi of Design Answers showcased how creative designs can uplift brands, whereas Nilfa Saha Karamakar, Founder & Director of Niyat Films and Production, is reshaping narratives in the world through her creative vision and studio.
The event also celebrated Nira Shah, whose venture, Little Fingers, brings healthy packaged food options for kids; Samiksha Khanna, the architectural genius behind Unorthodox Designs; and Pooja Bhagwat, Founder of Ink & Bliss Calligraphy & Design, who is reviving the art of calligraphy and turning it into a business opportunity. Shikha Agnihotri of Right Side Story is transforming schools into secure environments for children, while Palak Jain, Founder & CEO of Paws For Greens, is advocating for vegan pet food.
Additionally, Nidha, Founder & CEO of Morningwala, is revolutionizing organic food business by re-introducing us to traditional Indian grains; Prachi Kasliwal Dashora, Founder & Director of Sherringwood World School, is reshaping the education landscape; and Vani Talwar, Co-Founder of Tidy Up, is making organization a breeze for luxury purchases to help increase their life.
Looking Ahead
With another successful edition in the books, Women Listed continues to push boundaries. Our upcoming initiatives, including expert-led learning sessions, lifestyle exhibitions featuring women-led brands, and leadership programs, promise to further equip women entrepreneurs with the tools they need to increase their visibility in the market.
As we celebrate these phenomenal women, one thing is clear—the future of entrepreneurship in India is brighter and more diverse than ever. Here’s to more milestones, more breakthroughs, and more women leading the way!
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