Reena is the Co-founder and Chairwoman of WomenEmpowered, a philanthropic, social initiatives group which provides networking opportunities and brings inspiring speakers to those who wish to hear them. She is also a Conservative Councillor for Three Rivers District Council. But what is the secret to such success? Well, as we soon saw, it was having the right attitude to progress, the ultimate goal of both her roles: “the people who attend WE events are drawn from all walks of life” Reena explained. “Some attendees go on to collaborate on business and community projects, or just come together for friendship. WE have organised talks on topics such as ‘Shattering Glass Ceilings’ and ‘How to have your voice heard.” Involved in similar duties at the grass roots of government, we saw that a grounded spirit is the substance behind Reena’s actions. Positive and pragmatic, this is what makes superheroes in the modern day:
What is your hope with Women Empowered?
WE as we like to call ourselves and feel we are, aims to empower women (and men) to make the best of their individual skills and talents and help them to achieve whatever personal and professional goals they might have. We ensure easy accessibility to all who would like to reach us.
How do you help women to support each other in the community?
WE has grown over the years and we now have a number of initiatives all run by women for women, one of which is our monthly blog GRIT. It is a place where the WE Community share their experiences and stories. It is a place to read about the things in life that aren’t discussed enough: less lifestyle, more life! We have covered a wide range of topics, from health issues; why women should be more financially savvy; what we should tell our daughters; entrepreneurship, to many others. It is edited by Sunita Behl who gives her time as volunteer. The harmonious coming together of women to help other women (and men) each month is something that WE is very proud to be a part of.
Have you always been interested in politics and social rights issues?
It took a while for me to realise that every issue is a political or social issue. I have always had an opinion or been interested in the world around me (smaller to wider) so without knowing the correct terminology for my interest, I guess yes I always have been.
If you could improve one area for women’s protection in the workplace, what might that be?
In a perfect world we would have equal opportunities regardless of gender. As a result, I feel that we should strive for discussion and actions which enable that goal. I am of the opinion that when we talk of the lack of women in certain sectors, we should also consider the lack of men in other sectors. This would set in motion full parity, as far as practically possible between men and women, in both the home and work environments.
What has been a highlight of your career?
Setting up Women Empowered, and running for local government and then being elected, were both something larger than myself and seeing the impact of our work on people and communities has been incredible.
How did you arrive at this point?
I have always been a part of my family business and was lucky enough to have attended many events through the course of my work and family life. This involved hearing many inspiring speakers, and the wisdom they imparted has stayed on with me. After having my children, as much as I loved being with them, I was looking to engage my mind in the way it once had been when I was in the office environment. With my new family, and the different way my mind was now occupied, I realised I was not alone in this feeling. Many of my friends wanted inspiration as to what to do now, what the possibilities were and how to get there. It seemed logical to bring the two worlds together: engaging, enabling and empowering others in whatever that meant to them.
Name one small thing that keeps you going, and able to juggle your workload?
I am lucky in that I am able to work flexibly. However that sometimes means I work when everyone else is asleep! I enjoy all aspects of my life immensely and find them together to be fulfilling so the juggle is more of a complementary dance!
Finally, what is a mantra you would give other enterprising women?
To do whatever you are doing well. People will remember you and your attitude long after the job itself.
Reena’s Mentor Message
WE aims to:
ENGAGE more women (and men) in discussion; ENCOURAGE fresh and varied thinking and perspective; EMPOWER women (and men) to find the inner confidence to take the next step; ENABLE and support them through the journey by putting them in touch with organisations that can nurture their ideas and mentors who can assist in achieving those goals.
www.womenempowered.co.uk
