Chhalaang 3.0: The Team Committed to Breaking Barriers for Women in Tech

“The future belongs to those who break barriers, not follow them." In India’s tech sector, where women make up 36 per cent of the workforce, they continue to face several career growth and progression challenges. According to Skillsoft’s 2022 Women in Tech Report for India, only 7 per cent of executive-level positions are held by women, with just 13 per cent in director roles and 17 per cent in mid-level management. The glaring disparity is a cause of great concern. Despite their potential women in STEM today are struggling with their career growth. The need for platforms like Chhalaang is more imperative today than ever. Chhalaang, an initiative to support women in tech is on a mission to change the narrative. It allows women to showcase their skills, build networks, and access career-changing opportunities.

As a digital media partner, Her Circle is excited to support Chhalaang 3.0, which is designed to empower women in tech. The initiative not only focuses on breaking gender barriers but also on creating an inclusive environment where innovation, mentorship, and leadership can flourish.

Get to know the team behind Chhalaang, a group of passionate professionals committed to empowering women in tech. Meet the changemakers who are making this initiative possible.

Swati Gupta: Building a Movement of Change

Core Team - Acquisition & Diversity

Having worked with numerous start-ups, Swati Gupta, a driving force behind Chhalaang observed that while there was immense talent among women in the tech space, the lack of a proper platform and opportunities, kept them from re-entering the workforce after breaks or maternity leave.

"The tech space has always been male-dominated, and it became increasingly clear that women needed a serious push to participate," says Gupta. Chhalaang was born out of a desire to bring this untapped talent under one roof. With over 10,000 registrations in its first two editions, Gupta is now excited for Chhalaang 3.0, which she hopes will continue breaking barriers and providing women with a stage to shine.

"It's not just about building a platform; it's about creating a movement to ensure that these incredible women are seen, valued, and given the opportunities they truly deserve."

For Gupta, Chhalaang is not just a platform. It is creating a community where women can grow, network, and build confidence. It is a movement that ensures these incredible women are seen, valued, and given the opportunities they truly deserve."

Sanam Rawal: A Commitment to DEI in Tech

Founding Partner

Sanam Rawal, the founder of MetaMorph, a 360-degree HR advisory firm with a strong focus on DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) hiring, has been instrumental in supporting Chhalaang’s journey from the beginning. With companies like WebEngage, Turtlemint, and now Licious on board, Rawal ensures that talented women in tech receive the mentorship and support they need to excel.

"Seeing the potential of women in tech and creating an inclusive platform has been a driving force for us," she says. For Rawal, Chhalaang is not just about providing exposure but transforming lives and careers.

"It’s time we create an industry that values every voice, and initiatives like this are a step toward that future."

Beyond networking, the event will feature hiring drives, innovative problem-solving sessions, and an environment that fosters collaboration.

Vaibhav Parchure: Fostering Inclusivity and Innovation

Partner - MetaMorph

Chhalaang 3.0’s commitment to bridging the gender gap in tech extends to leaders like Vaibhav Parchure, who firmly believes that equality in the workplace benefits everyone. Having worked in a field traditionally dominated by women, he has witnessed the power of diverse perspectives and the importance of inclusivity.

"Chhalaang is our endeavour to bring together the finest women's tech talent in one place, fostering an environment of inclusivity and innovation."

Parchure emphasises that platforms like Chhalaang are crucial not just for showcasing talent but for developing leadership skills and driving economic growth. He is confident that attendees will leave with valuable networks, collaboration opportunities, and newfound confidence.

Ami Palan: Expanding the Reach

Head of Marketing

As the Head of Marketing at MetaMorph, Ami Palan has played a crucial role in ensuring Chhalaang’s reach extends across India. Having worked extensively in gaming start-ups with male-dominated tech teams, Palan believed in the importance of creating an inclusive space for women in tech.

"Chhalaang provides a platform where women can showcase their skills and innovate without any barriers, thus driving personal and industry-wide growth," Palan shares. For her, partnering with Her Circle was a pivotal moment in reaching more women and empowering them to take on leadership roles in the tech space.

Akanksha Mukhija: Championing Diversity & Inclusion

Talent Acquisition Specialist (D&I)

As a Diversity & Inclusion Specialist, Akanksha Mukhija is a strong advocate for platforms like Chhalaang that address the persistent gender disparity in tech. For her, witnessing the outcomes from previous editions, where innovative solutions and strong networks were built, reaffirms her belief in the power of such initiatives.

"Chhalaang provides a platform to address the gender disparity in tech, and I am excited to support the talented women stepping into the arena, ensuring their voices are recognised and celebrated."

Mukhija sees Chhalaang as not just a tech event but as a space where women can continue to engage and collaborate, long after the event concludes.

Pranisha Dalal: Empowering Women to Break Barriers

Core Team - Tech Hiring

Handling tech hiring at MetaMorph, Pranisha Dalal has seen the significant gender gap in tech leadership roles, with over 70 per cent of such positions occupied by men. For her, Chhalaang represents a crucial step toward bridging this gap.

"By offering a space where women can demonstrate their capabilities without bias, we not only boost their self-esteem but also challenge and change the existing norms in the industry."

Dalal believes that Chhalaang will provide participants with leadership opportunities and industry exposure, helping them step into influential roles and drive change within the tech industry.

The team behind Chhalaang 3.0 has not only built a platform to uplift women in tech but has also created a community where women can thrive, network, and embrace new challenges.