On this Women’s Day, we bring you an inspiring conversation with Nishtha Gupta, Head of Sustainability & ESG at Suzlon Energy Ltd. Her journey into sustainability and corporate responsibility is a powerful testament to resilience, leadership, and breaking barriers in a traditionally male-dominated industry.
In this exclusive interaction with TVW News India and Entrepreneur News Network, Nishtha shares her career journey, the challenges she overcame, the evolving role of women in ESG, and her advice for young women looking to build a career in sustainability.
Here’s the interview:
What inspired you to build a career in Sustainability & ESG, and how has the journey been so far?
My journey into Sustainability and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) was driven by a deep-rooted belief in the power of business to create positive change. Growing up, I always had an innate sense of responsibility towards the environment, seeing firsthand how critical it is to address climate change and depletion of natural resources. However, what truly inspired me to pursue a career in sustainability was realizing the interconnectivity of environmental health, social equity, and corporate responsibility. My passion for waste and water management since my childhood days when my work upon “Best Out of Waste” was broadcasted on National TV was a turning point to pursue my career and aspirations.
The journey so far has been incredibly rewarding. It’s a constantly evolving space, and I’ve had the privilege of working with alongside like-minded professionals and leaders who are equally dedicated to pushing the needle on climate change, social justice, and corporate ethics. While the challenges are real, especially in terms of creating measurable impact and driving systemic change, the progress I’ve witnessed in organizations embracing ESG principles gives me hope. It’s inspiring to see more leaders recognizing that sustainability isn’t just a trend—it’s an integral part of building resilience, fostering innovation, and creating long-term value for both society and the planet.
What challenges have you faced as a woman in this industry, and how did you overcome them?
The journey has never been an easy one throughout my career with multifaceted challenges spanning across Consulting, Industry, Private Equity firm, TIC bodies however it has been significant in shaping my determination, passion which makes me what I am today. As a woman in the sustainability and ESG industry, I’ve encountered many challenges being a WOMAN. One of the most significant hurdles has been navigating a traditionally male-dominated field, where at times, my voice or ideas were initially overlooked or underestimated. In the initial days of my career, I had to prove always that women can do any task whether it is work within the organization and discussion with internal stakeholders or management or even a field visit at remote location and work on sites. It was indeed a difficult time when working with woman itself was considered a challenge due to pre-conceived notion about inefficiency to do work and conscious as well as unconscious bias based on gender.
Additionally, finding work-life balance in a demanding industry makes it even more challenging to maintain personal well-being or family commitments. There’s a societal expectation for women to juggle professional and personal lives seamlessly, and balancing these can be especially taxing when you’re in a leadership role. Overcoming these challenges has never so easy, but I’ve learned that resilience, confidence, and finding a strong support system are the levers. I made it a point to surround myself with mentors—both male and female—who supported my growth and challenged me to keep pushing forward. These relationships have been invaluable in helping me navigate tough situations and build the confidence needed to speak up and assert my ideas.
I have also learned to focus on the value and impact of my work rather than allowing external biases to define my success. By staying true to my passion for sustainability and aligning my goals with the greater good, I found that my commitment and expertise could transcend gender biases. While challenges still exist, I firmly believe that the industry is evolving, and we’re moving toward a more inclusive and diverse future. Every step forward, no matter how small, feels like a victory, not just for me, but for all the women who come after me.
Despite getting recognition for my work and contributions; being recognized as Women leader makes me feel proud as leadership is about capability, vision, and values. I have chosen this path for myself breaking stereotypes and overcoming bias throughout my career. Working in all jobs which are perceived impossible for women and despite struggles and hardships being faced in life; I am still moving on with much more strength just to prove myself that I can, I will. My thoughts on work-life balance revolves around being authentic and setting boundaries and redefine what success looks like in my terms.
How do you think women can drive change in sustainability and corporate responsibility?
Women have a unique and powerful role to play in driving change in sustainability and corporate responsibility, both due to their distinct perspectives and their growing influence in leadership roles. One of the key ways women can drive change is by leading with empathy and collaboration. Many of the most pressing sustainability challenges require cross-sector collaboration, diverse thinking, and a holistic approach. Women often excel in fostering inclusive environments, encouraging collaboration, and prioritizing the voices of marginalized groups—qualities that are essential for addressing complex global issues. When women lead with empathy, they’re more likely to implement initiatives that are not just environmentally sound but also socially equitable, ensuring that the benefits of sustainability reach everyone. It’s important to acknowledge the power of solidarity with other women in the industry. As more women break into leadership positions, we create an environment where we can lift each other up, share experiences, and advocate for more equitable and inclusive practices in the workplace.
Furthermore, women can influence corporate responsibility by pushing for more transparent, ethical, and accountable business practices. They bring fresh perspectives on risk management, understanding that long-term sustainability is not just about protecting the environment but also about ensuring fair treatment of workers, fostering inclusive cultures, and contributing positively to the communities in which businesses operate.
Lastly, women can leverage their growing presence in leadership to create policies and strategies that integrate sustainability into the core of business models. By prioritizing sustainable practices in their organizations, women can set examples for others and create ripple effects throughout their industries. Their leadership also provides valuable mentorship for the next generation of women to step into these roles and be the flagbearers for a more sustainable future. Ultimately, women are uniquely positioned to drive the kind of change that is needed to make sustainability and corporate responsibility central to how businesses operate. By leading with compassion, collaboration, and a long-term vision, women can not only shape the future of industries but also contribute to a world that is more just, sustainable, and resilient.
What advice would you give to young women looking to enter the ESG and sustainability space?
My advice to young women looking to enter the ESG and sustainability space would be to embrace your passion and be bold in pursuing it. The world of sustainability is vast, interdisciplinary, and rapidly evolving, and there’s a place for every skill set. Whether your background is in business, science, policy, communications, or technology, there’s an opportunity for you to make a meaningful impact.
First, I would encourage you to focus on continuous learning as this field is dynamic and being updated with new regulations and standards, technologies, policies, and best practices is the key. Stay curious and committed to educating yourself about the latest trends, challenges, and solutions. This will allow you to stay at the forefront of the industry and adapt to its changes.
Second, network and build relationships with others in the field. Surround yourself with like-minded individuals who are equally passionate about making a difference. Seek out mentors who can guide and support your growth, whether they are women or men. In many cases, mentorship can be a key factor in overcoming challenges and navigating your career path successfully. Don’t hesitate to reach out, ask questions, and get involved in organizations, forums, or conferences dedicated to ESG and sustainability.
Third, trust in your voice and your perspective. As a woman in this space, you might encounter challenges, but remember that your insights, experiences, and contributions are valuable. Don’t shy away from leadership opportunities or speaking up—diverse perspectives are essential for driving the systemic change needed in sustainability. Be confident in the fact that you bring something unique to the table and that your ideas can create real impact.
Lastly, remain persistent. The path to change is often not linear, and there will be obstacles along the way. But every step forward, no matter how small, brings you closer to making a difference. If you’re passionate about sustainability, let that drive you even when the journey feels tough. It’s a long-term commitment, and the work you do now will lay the foundation for future progress.
How do you manage the demands of leadership while maintaining a work-life balance?
Managing the demands of leadership while maintaining a work-life balance is certainly a challenge, but it’s not about trying to do everything perfectly but rather about being intentional with my time and setting clear priorities. One of the key strategies I rely on is time management. As a leader, there are always numerous tasks vying for attention, but I have learned that it’s essential to focus on what truly matters. I make a habit of aligning my work with my core goals—both professional and personal. This helps me ensure I’m dedicating my energy to the projects and people that are most aligned with my long-term vision.
Delegation is another important aspect of managing my leadership responsibilities. I trust my team to take ownership of certain tasks and empower them to make decisions. This not only helps lighten my workload but also builds a more collaborative and effective work environment. It’s all about creating a sense of shared responsibility and not feeling like I have to do everything myself. I also make sure to set boundaries—both at work and at home. I block out time for personal activities and downtime, and I try to stick to it as much as possible. Self-care is crucial in maintaining that balance. I find time for a bit of exercise, listen to music to stay calm and try to do things which help me recharge mentally and physically. Taking care of myself enables me to show up as the best version of myself in both my leadership role and personal life. Also, I believe it’s important to acknowledge that achieving perfect balance every day isn’t always possible. There will be times when work demands more of your attention, but being mindful of your priorities and making adjustments when necessary can help you navigate those periods without losing sight of what truly matters in the long run.
What does Women’s Day mean to you, and do you have a message for women striving to make a difference?
International Women’s Day to me is both a celebration and a reminder. It’s a celebration of the progress women have made in all areas of life—social, political, and economic—but also a reminder that there is still work to be done. It’s a day to reflect on the incredible strength, resilience, and achievements of women around the world and to honour the trailblazers who have paved the way for future generations. At the same time, it’s an opportunity to highlight the challenges that still exist and commit to pushing forward toward equality and empowerment.
Women’s Day also serves as a time to acknowledge the importance of lifting each other up. When women support and empower one another, we create a collective force that drives change, not just in our own lives, but in our communities, workplaces, and societies. It’s a day to celebrate the power of solidarity and the potential for women to come together, regardless of their backgrounds or industries, to create meaningful impact.
To women striving to make a difference, my message would be: Believe in your power, stay resilient, and don’t underestimate the impact you can have, just believe in yourself. Change often starts with small steps—whether that’s speaking up in a meeting, mentoring others, or taking on a leadership role in your community. It may not always be easy, and the journey may be long, but the difference you make matters. Trust in your voice and your vision, and know that every action, no matter how small, contributes to a larger movement. It’s important to always remember, self-compassion is key and you don’t need to have it all figured out, and it’s okay to ask for help and take breaks when needed. Building a more just and sustainable world is a collective effort, and you don’t have to do it alone. Surround yourself with like-minded people who inspire and support you.
Lastly, embrace the power of your unique perspective. The world needs diverse voices and solutions. Whether you’re advocating for environmental change, social justice, or corporate responsibility, your efforts are vital in shaping the future. Keep going, keep believing in your potential, and know that the impact you’re making today will create a ripple effect for generations to come.
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