"From Dreams to Reality: How Hard Work, Grit, and Determination Change the Tides"

Tehseen Zaidi is a remarkable individual who has consistently set new expectations for herself and pursued her dreams with unwavering determination. From a young age, she possessed a vision and clarity of purpose that set her apart. She says she never had imposter syndrome because of her focus and clarity about her life goals. Born in a small town in the Unnao district, she grew up in a community where traditional norms often dictated a different path for women. However, she was determined in her ambition to carve her path.

Early on, Tehseen recognized the importance of education and independence. Despite the challenges of their small hometown lacking good educational opportunities, her parents encouraged her to spread her wings by sending her to study in Dehradun. This early exposure laid the foundation for her strong sense of independence and ambition.

Life's challenges, such as her father's health issues and subsequent return to her hometown during her schooling, only fueled her determination to excel. Despite facing a challenging environment and studying in a boy's school due to limited options for girls' education, Tehseen refused to comply with societal expectations. She refused to be confined by traditional roles and instead aimed to carve out her own identity.

The pressures on her to conform to societal norms, such as the pressure to marry young and adopt traditional roles, were met head-on with her father's unwavering support for her education and aspirations. This support was instrumental in Tehseen's resilience and eventual success.

Her life journey has not been without setbacks, including a serious accident that delayed her education. However, her father's belief in her abilities drove her forward, enabling her to regain her path and achieve academic success against all the odds.

Tehseen's entry into the workforce marked a new chapter in her life. Joining NDTV, she found a platform where she could excel professionally and advocate for women's empowerment. Her dedication and integrity were quickly recognized, earning her the respect of colleagues and mentors alike.

For almost 2 decades, she has carved a niche for herself in corporate communications and public affairs. Now, at Syngenta India Pvt. Ltd., she is aiming to transform storytelling in the agri-tech sector.

Her huge leap was with the Sasakawa India Leprosy Foundation, which was instrumental in securing the Gandhi Peace Prize 2018 for Yohei Sasakawa and gave birth to the infamous #YouAreNotAlone campaign.

Throughout her career, she has remained firm in her commitment to empowering women and promoting diversity and inclusion. Her personal experiences have shaped her advocacy, driving her to create opportunities for others and challenge the norms set for girls by society.

Tehseen's achievements, including professional accolades and recognition, are a testament to her perseverance and dedication. However, she remains grounded, drawing inspiration from her life's motto: "Believe in yourself and be yourself; the rest will follow." In her personal life, her partnership with her husband reflects mutual support and shared values. His practical support and constructive criticism have been instrumental in Tehseen's journey, reinforcing her belief in the power of collaboration and shared goals.

Tehseen Zaidi's story is one of resilience, empowerment, and unwavering determination. She serves as an inspiration not only through her professional achievements but also through her advocacy for women's rights and her relentless pursuit of positive change. Through her journey, she exemplifies the transformative impact of self-belief and the courage to challenge conventions. Her story is a beacon of hope and empowerment for individuals striving to break barriers and make a difference in their communities.