Priyanka Agarwal, the new chairperson of YFLO, dons many hats. She is a mother of two, a fashion entrepreneur for over 10 years in her family's fashion retail business called Sasya and Simaaya, and now the chairperson of the young women's wing of FICCI FLO, YFLO (Young Ficci Ladies Organisation) for a term of one year starting this month. A fashion enthusiast at heart and a gold medalist in Msc. Fashion Management from NIFT, Priyanka's motivation lies in striving for excellence in every role she takes up, be it personal or professional. Excerpts:
How are you planning to accommodate this new responsibility and juggle it with work and home?
YFLO committee has been a part of my life for six years now and it is an important part of my life. I have already started managing my time effectively to balance all commitments in my life. My family is very supportive and understanding of my journey ahead and I am sure with their support I will be able to fulfil all my roles effectively.
When did your association with YFLO start and how did it help you in your journey over the years?
My association with YFLO began when I joined the organisation in 2014 and deepened when I joined the committee in 2017. As a committee member, I have got the opportunity to work with some amazing chairpersons and fellow committee members. I have been a part of the committee in different roles and can say that each role has taught me a new perspective and has helped in my personal growth. I have inculcated skills like leadership, inclusiveness, compassion, dedication and punctuality.
What does this new position in the organisation mean to you? And what will be your motto as the chairperson?
This position comes with a deep sense of responsibility and commitment to advance the interest and opportunities of young entrepreneurial women of Calcutta. My motto as the 16th chairperson of this organisation would be to help young women professionals and entrepreneurs in Calcutta realise their full potential and to create a more inclusive and equitable professional landscape in the city. I would strive to embody the FICCI motto of 'The Power to Empower' in all that I do and to create a brighter future for us all.
What is your theme for this year?
The theme for the year is 'Elevate — each otHER'. When we elevate we learn, grow, encourage, support and thrive together as an organisation. We create waves of positivity that can transform our lives and our communities. The second part of the theme, 'each otHER', emphasises the importance of women's community, collaboration and support. Overall, the theme of 'Elevate — each otHER' is a powerful message of hope, empowerment, unity and womanhood and one that can inspire positive change and growth in both personal and professional contexts.
What kind of events are you looking forward to planning for the members?
The year's events will focus on my vision 'Elevate' to help members connect, collaborate and share knowledge and experiences. The events planned include inspiring speaker events, workshops, seminars, panel discussions, networking events, and promoting member business initiatives. YFLO is doing a three-day on-campus program at IIM Ahmedabad on scaling up the business to help members learn how to elevate their businesses. We have planned many activities to give back to society as well. I would also like to centre the focus of my year on encouraging business amongst members.
What are some of the challenges within or outside the organisation that you wish to address during your tenure?
As I embark on my tenure, I am excited about the challenges that lie ahead and see them as opportunities to make a positive impact. One of the challenges I will address is inclusivity, by ensuring that all members feel welcome and represented within our organisation. Another challenge that I see as an opportunity is facilitating interaction between old and new members.
What qualities define a YFLO woman?
As an individual who has been associated with YFLO, I believe that the qualities that define a YFLO woman are courage, resilience, empathy and a strong sense of community. A YFLO woman is dynamic, forward-thinking, and committed to making a positive impact. She possesses a deep sense of empathy and compassion towards others and is always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need. She is committed to supporting and uplifting other women around her, both professionally and personally.
Who are your sheros?
As an individual who values women's achievements and contributions, I feel that every woman who has dared to make a change that has mattered is a shero in their own right. Some particularly inspiring women in my life are Indira Gandhi, Sushmita Sen, Kamala Harris and Sania Mirza. They are a testament to the power of women to effect change and create a better world for all. Lastly, my mother, who started her entrepreneurial journey at 48 years and manages her work and personal life. She is my biggest shero.