7 Lessons From The Digital Women Awards Stage That Every Founder Needs To Hear

Over the years, at Digital Women Awards, some of the most powerful lessons have come not just from success stories, but from journeys of growth and courage. From embracing change and learning continuously to staying calm under pressure and empowering others, every insight offered a glimpse into what true leadership looks like today.

Every speaker reminded us that failure shapes strength, and self-belief is the real game-changer. These stories are not just about business; they are about evolving, inspiring, and leading with heart.

This year, as we step into the 11th edition of this growing platform, let's look back at the seven lessons we learnt from the last Digital Women Awards.

1. Always be open to learning

At the Digital Women Awards 2024, entrepreneur Upasana Kamineni Konidela beautifully captured this idea. She shared how she makes it a habit to learn something new every year through online courses, digital tools, or even small life lessons from social media. Her approach shows that learning doesn’t have to be grand; it just has to be consistent.

Upasana said, “I have a plethora of learning as a third-generation entrepreneur; But with evolving times, and to be more relevant to all of you out there and to myself, I of course have to [bring] some change. I have my purpose in place and clarity of my goal, so that drives me to achieve what I need to.”

2. Take systematic support early on

Every great idea needs more than passion to thrive; it needs structure, clarity, and the right support. Sita Pallacholla reminded aspiring founders that success isn’t just about building something innovative, but about doing it wisely. Understanding co-founder agreements, term sheets, and investor dynamics early on can help avoid roadblocks later. She emphasised that even the brightest entrepreneurs can stumble if they ignore the business fundamentals.

Sita said, “Many women founders come from exceptional educational backgrounds yet struggle because they didn’t receive systematic support early on. It’s not just about passion, it’s about preparation, awareness, and building a foundation that can sustain your vision.”

3. Know what you want to build

Sakshi Sindwani's journey is a reminder that clarity of purpose and fearless authenticity can open doors once thought closed. She built her path in the fashion industry by staying true to herself and creating work that reflected inclusivity, confidence, and intent, proving that real impact begins when you stop seeking validation and start taking action.

Sakshi said, “My strategy was simple I had to be authentic. I didn’t want to copy anybody; I wanted to be myself, to be fearless in my own voice, and to make a change, no matter how long it takes or how much effort it needs. I wanted to create measurable changes in the fashion industry when it comes to inclusivity, and I wanted to be in rooms where nobody looking like me had ever been.”

4. Fail Fast and Learn Fast

In today’s fast-changing world, failure isn’t the end; it’s a lesson in progress.Shaili Chopra emphasised that experimenting boldly and learning quickly are what help entrepreneurs grow stronger and more adaptable. Each attempt, whether it succeeds or not, brings valuable insight that shapes both the person and the business.

Shaili said, “Everyone here is constantly advised to experiment quickly and learn from it. We start learning about how we build ourselves not just into a brand, but into a business.”

5. Supporting Women Entrepreneurs 

Jayesh Ranjan highlighted how the government is taking meaningful steps to help women turn their entrepreneurial dreams into reality. From easing access to funding and mentorship to creating networks that encourage innovation and collaboration, these initiatives aim to make the business ecosystem more inclusive and supportive. His words reflected a vision where women are not just participants but leaders driving economic growth and social change.

6. Calmness Is Strength

Pinky Reddy beautifully expressed that women have a natural ability to handle multiple roles and challenges with grace. She shared how staying calm, rather than reacting in stress or frustration, helps her think clearly and manage situations effectively. For her, positivity is a choice that keeps the mind steady even in chaos. She believes that shouting or worrying only disturbs one’s own peace, while calmness creates clarity and control.

Pinky said, “I don’t get stressed or hassled; I stay calm and believe that whatever has to happen will happen. Being calm helps me handle situations better and keeps my mind clear. I focus on tuning my own mind and mood rather than reacting to what others do. Shouting or worrying only disturbs your peace; staying composed is the real strength. I truly believe that balance isn’t about doing everything perfectly, but about approaching life with calm and clarity.”

7. Finding Freedom Through Expression

The COVID lockdown made Sumitra Shriram reflect on how easily women lose themselves in the routines and expectations of daily life. She realised that for years, many women, including herself, had accepted silence and sacrifice as a part of love and duty. That moment of reflection became her turning point: a decision to live with purpose and express her individuality rather than hide behind the roles society had set for her.

Sumitra said, “Instagram became a game-changer for me; it gave me access to the outside world and a space to express myself. Through my reels, mostly drawn from my own experiences, I pour my heart out to empower women who feel stuck like I once did.”