Smita Patil, Chairperson of the Indian Women Network (CII-IWN) Goa Chapter, speaks on plans for the organisation
Could you share your journey and what led you to take up the role of Chairperson of CII IWN Goa?
I worked at SBI for a few years; and later took a hiatus to take care of my family. In 2015, my husband and I started NV Eco Agro Tourism Pvt Ltd (NV Ecofarm) in our ancestral property which caters to guests visiting for the day; and for those who would like to stay overnight in our cottages and dormitory to experience a quiet village life in the hinterland. The company then became a part of the tourism industry and the CII. My husband Mahesh Patil represented the company on the CII council. I decided to join IWN three years back. I was invited to take over as the Chairperson of the CII IWN for the year 2025-26. Fortunately for me, I have a great camaraderie with my fellow members and they have supported me through all the events we have organised, so far. The CII Secretariat is always ready to help in all my endeavours and they are just a phone call away.
What does the Indian Women Network (IWN) aim to achieve, and how does the Goa chapter contribute to this vision?
In 2013, the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) launched the Indian Women Network (IWN) – with the vision of being the largest network for career women. The thought behind the formation of IWN was that career women require a structured network to meet likeminded women to discuss and overcome challenges that they might be facing at the workplace. IWN works towards enabling women to become better professionals and achievers in their respective fields through initiatives and activities to facilitate a supportive network; a platform to learn and exchange ideas; an avenue to network and grow. This is supplemented by exposing women to new opportunities presented by the ecosystem with the objective of inclusion and growth of women in the workforce.
The Goa Chapter is following the same guidelines in achieving these goals.
How is CII IWN Goa supporting women professionals, entrepreneurs, and leaders across different sectors?
CII IWN is a group of women entrepreneurs and professionals who have come together on this platform to voice their requirements at the workplace. If gender parity in workplaces, safety and transport etc is voiced and heard; it would help all women in the workplace.
Could you highlight some of the key initiatives, programs, or workshops conducted by IWN Goa in recent years?
We have conducted various workshops this year. We had a presentation on health by Dr Tarna Khadpe on the topic ‘Let’s talk menopause facts v/s myths’ which was well attended by most of the members with very interesting queries answered by the speaker.
On the occasion of National handloom day our speaker Sarita Roy, Senior Lecturer at the Garment Technology Department at Polytechnic, Altinho focused on the richness of India’s handloom heritage
and traditional weaves. There was a hands-on activity to create this weave using paper straps and other accessories
Recently, our member Manalee Verneker addressed us on ‘Women and wealth creation beyond business income’ which was followed by a quiz and prizes which further led to an enlightening question-answer session.
How does IWN Goa help bridge the gap between corporate leadership and women entering or growing in the workforce?
We at IWN Goa are into policy advocacy and we make representation to the industry to ease the hardships faced by
women entering the workforce.
What are the biggest challenges women face today in business, industry, and leadership, especially in Goa?
1. Certain sectors while engaging women in large numbers, engage them only at the lowest rung (agriculture/
construction). These sectors are not seen as viable career options for women (by the sector or by the
women).
2. The work of many women engaged across sectors is not accounted for in the national accounting process.
3. The percentage of women (across sectors) in leadership roles is scant.
From your perspective, how can organizations create inclusive workplaces and promote gender diversity more effectively?
1. Safety of women in the workplace.
2. Proper transport facilities especially if some companies are having women in the third shift. I think two pharma companies have started employing for the third shift.
3. Acknowledging the work of women in the workplace and giving them equal opportunities.
How does IWN collaborate with industry leaders, government bodies, and educational institutions to drive women-centric policies and programs?
We are the bridge between the industry and the educational institutions. We have a MoU with the Don Bosco College
of Engineering Fatorda where we have a student chapter. We have had mentorship programs for them with knowledgeable speakers who are arranged for, in consultation with their Principal.
Field trips are arranged at different industries of their choice since we have access to these industries. Outstation visits to various industries is also arranged.
What are your priorities and goals for IWN Goa in the coming years?
While mine is a short term of only a year, I will try to do diverse work to build a great network of successful women in their businesses or workplace. Lots of events and workshops have been planned for the coming year. Since I will still be a part of the committee, I will be there for my successors in whatever way I can help.
Finally, what message would you like to share with aspiring women leaders and young professionals in Goa?
Achieve your dreams. Make them a reality. Hard work and focused goals are the only mantra; and most importantly,
uplift other women on this journey.
