On a recent episode of the HerStory podcast, I had the privilege of speaking with Poorvi, the dynamic CEO of Katalyst India. From navigating a career transition from corporate finance to the social sector, to empowering young women in STEM, Poorvi shared valuable insights about leadership, perseverance, and the importance of holistic education.
A Journey of Purpose and Growth
Born in Iran, Poorvi experienced a world of opportunities until political upheaval disrupted life as she knew it. Reflecting on those early experiences, she noted how witnessing limited opportunities for women in different contexts fueled her passion for education and empowerment.
Her journey to the development sector wasn’t a linear one. After a successful corporate career and time dedicated to motherhood, Poorvi faced the familiar self-doubt many women experience—balancing family life while questioning whether to return to the workforce. Driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact, she joined the Akanksha Foundation and never looked back.
Joining Katalyst in 2015, Poorvi found her calling in preparing young women for leadership roles in STEM fields. Her story illustrates how embracing change and connecting personal values with professional pursuits can lead to impactful careers.
Katalyst India: Shaping Future Women Leaders
Katalyst India, founded in 2007 by Third Sector Partners, focuses on empowering young women in professional education, especially STEM. “There were many initiatives for primary school and vocational skilling, but a gap existed in supporting women pursuing higher education,” Poorvi explained.
The program offers a 600-hour curriculum over four years, providing participants with technical training, mentoring, and exposure to professional environments. With partnerships across 55+ colleges and collaborations with over 60 corporate partners, Katalyst has made a significant impact, supporting over 2,800 girls to date.
Fostering Leadership Beyond College
In addition to its flagship program for college students, Katalyst now offers a forward integration initiative for women at early, mid, and late career stages. This bespoke program focuses on managerial effectiveness, leadership, and personal development. “We facilitate trust groups where participants are guided by senior leader coaches,” Poorvi shared, emphasizing the importance of peer support and professional mentorship.
Lessons in Leadership and Perseverance
Poorvi’s leadership journey is rooted in perseverance and collaboration. She attributes much of her success to having strong support systems at work and home. “Recognition and achievement aren’t single-handed efforts,” she emphasized.
Her advice to aspiring women leaders? “There is no shortcut in life. The difference between ordinary and extraordinary is that extra effort,” she said. “But don’t hesitate to seek help when needed.”
Breaking Barriers for Women Everywhere
Despite progress, Poorvi highlighted the persistent challenges women face in the workplace globally. Perceptions of women as the “weaker sex” or being “overly emotional” often hinder opportunities. Poorvi strongly advocates for the recognition of emotional intelligence as a critical workplace skill.
She also noted that societal structures and life stages often force women to choose between roles, but many are capable of excelling at all. “You can have it all,” she affirmed.
Inspiration Through Adventure and Resilience
Poorvi’s zest for life extends beyond the professional sphere. A dream to one day play at Wimbledon, despite not knowing how to hold a racket at the time, exemplifies her belief in chasing dreams. Her stories of trekking at 14,000 feet in Kashmir underline her adventurous spirit.
Her favorite quote? Nelson Mandela’s words: “It always seems impossible until it’s done.” It’s a mantra she embodies and shares with the young women she mentors.
Final Thoughts
The conversation with Poorvi was inspiring and insightful, filled with lessons on leadership, resilience, and the transformative power of education. Her work at Katalyst India is a testament to how purposeful leadership can shape a better future for women.
Thank you, Poorvi, for sharing your incredible journey with us on HerStory. Your story continues to inspire and elevate women toward leadership and success.
Stay tuned for more candid conversations with women leaders on HerStory. Until next time, keep believing in the extraordinary!