MG Motor India's 'Unchartered Roads' campaign spotlights six remarkable women who have defied societal norms and made significant contributions in their respective fields. Here are their inspiring stories:
1. Gitika Talukdar – Pioneering Sports Photojournalist
Hailing from Guwahati, Assam, Gitika Talukdar became India's first female sports photojournalist to cover the Olympics in Tokyo and Paris. Despite facing violent mobs, destruction of her equipment, and severe injuries that left her unable to walk for months, Gitika's unwavering determination led her to international arenas, capturing iconic moments in sports history. She now mentors young girls in Assam, encouraging them to pursue careers in sports journalism.
2. Hasina Kharbhih – Combatting Human Trafficking
At the age of 17, Hasina Kharbhih from Shillong founded the Impulse NGO Network (INGON), dedicated to fighting human trafficking in Northeast India. Over two decades, despite facing threats, bribes, and attacks, Hasina's relentless efforts have empowered over 30,000 artisans, providing them with sustainable livelihoods and safeguarding them from exploitation.
3. Vasudha Madhavan – Championing Electric Mobility
Vasudha Madhavan established 'Ostara Advisors,' India's first boutique investment bank focusing exclusively on electric mobility and climate technology. Recognizing the potential of electric vehicles (EVs) early on, she facilitated India's first acquisition of a woman-founded EV two-wheeler company. Since 2018, under her guidance, EV sales have surged from 130,000 units to over 1.5 million in 2023, marking a significant shift in the automotive industry.
4. Mala Honnatti – Marathoner and Mountaineer at 71
Mala Honnatti's journey is a testament to resilience and perseverance. After two unsuccessful attempts to summit Mount Everest and a devastating earthquake during her third try in 2015, she redirected her passion towards marathons. Achieving feats like running marathons in Antarctica and at the Everest Base Camp, Mala has completed treks to the base camps of 11 mountains, including Annapurna, and participated in 26 full marathons worldwide, all after the age of 71.
5. Niharika Nair – Advocate for Tribal Communities
Bengaluru-based Niharika Nair launched Project Tribali while in eighth grade, aiming to support and preserve the cultures of lesser-known tribal communities. Her initiatives include securing identification documents, organizing health camps, initiating plantation drives, and promoting tribal art through the sale of handcrafted items. By 2023, Niharika had positively impacted over 10,000 individuals and presented her work at the Activate Impact Summit at the UN Headquarters.
6. Diana Pundole – Breaking Barriers in Motorsport
Growing up in Pune with a family deeply rooted in racing, Diana Pundole faced skepticism as she pursued a career in motorsports—a field predominantly dominated by men. Through relentless training and determination, she established herself as a formidable competitor on the racing circuit, challenging gender stereotypes and inspiring other women to venture into the sport.
These stories exemplify the spirit of the 'Unchartered Roads' campaign, celebrating women who have courageously navigated uncharted territories to inspire change and empower communities.
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