“A Tamilian born and brought up in Mumbai, I have been breaking societal norms since the day I was born. After my elder sister, when my mother was pregnant, people expected her to give birth to a son. But I proved them all wrong and came into this world as a girl.
I faced my first major setback when I failed my 10th standard school exams twice. People told me that I should give up my studies, but I refused to let their words get to me. I worked hard and earned not one, not two, but three postgraduate degrees and pursued a Ph.D.
At the young age of 19, I decided to start my own business in the education field. People told me that it wasn’t the norm for girls and that I should focus on finishing my studies and getting married instead. But I had a different vision for my future, and my business now employs above 150 women.
As I grew older, people told me that I wouldn’t be able to get married or have children after the age of 30. But I met a caring and supportive person after crossing 30, and we now have a beautiful one-year-old baby.
Contrary to popular belief that women’s businesses will not succeed once they are married, my business flourished even more. I created a new additional venture in the education field and signed a prestigious government project in Tamil Nadu in Ariyalur.
As my business continues to grow, I find myself traveling more often between Tamilnadu and Mumbai, taking my child with me when I need to, without any fear or hesitation.
I want to use this opportunity to encourage other women to believe in themselves and their own abilities. Too many talented and qualified women are held back by family commitments, and I want to tell them that there is so much more to life than just the kitchen. Use your time wisely and take a chance to explore the world of opportunities that await you.
I am Suvidha Kannan – the Founder & Director of the Williez Chain of Preschools & Group of Williez educational institutions, President of the Early Childhood Development & Learning Association, and Founder of the Williez Foundation.
On this Women’s Day, I want to remind everyone that we should celebrate women every day, not just one day a year. Let us all work towards creating a society where women can achieve their dreams without any barriers or obstacles.”