Former Union Minister Smriti Irani today inaugurated the second edition of Beyond Barriers 2024 at the Ambedkar International Centre, Delhi. This year’s event, themed “Investing in Women for a Sustainable Future,” brings together global leaders, visionaries, and changemakers to discuss critical topics such as gender equality in technology, leadership in entrepreneurship, sustainable commerce, and social impact.

In her opening remarks, Smriti Irani stated, “Women have the power to lift each other up, and the greatest gift we can give is to help another woman shine. Why should it still be surprising that women are capable and accomplished? We need to make space for every woman—whether she’s young or experienced—to be acknowledged for her contributions, not just for reaching the top. True courage isn’t in fame or success alone; it’s in every woman’s determination to define her own path, and we must respect and celebrate that.”

“When we talk about role models, we often look too far outside when the most inspiring figures are right at home. Our mothers, grandmothers, friends—they’ve faced many challenges without expecting recognition. They show us that real strength is in balancing ambition with care. We need to teach young women to value self-care, to invest in their own independence and well-being—not just for themselves, but to make them stronger for others. Financial independence and personal health should not be seen as selfish but as ways for women to have greater stability and security.”

“Women in business bring a unique perspective that’s good for everyone. When women lead, they prioritize things like sustainability, education, and community health. It’s not just about success; it’s about reinvesting in what matters. We can’t be afraid to challenge old ideas and try something new—even if people doubt us. We need to take bold steps and support one another in business. When women succeed, we know how to share that success to uplift those around us, and that makes us powerful agents of change.”

She added “ Women in science and technology should not just be researchers or educators; they must be empowered to turn their ideas into entrepreneurial ventures, making their innovations commercially viable and leading the way in business."

The event features several panel discussions on critical issues such as leadership in entrepreneurship, sustainable commerce, and the challenges of scaling women-led startups. A "Demo Day" was organized to showcase the innovations of women entrepreneurs, offering them opportunities to engage with potential investors and partners.

Dr. Senthamarai Gokulakrishnan, Founder of Yuukke, said, “Despite their talent and creativity, women entrepreneurs face major challenges, such as lack of funding and support. Globally, over 1 billion women don’t have access to financial services, and women-owned businesses face a $300 billion funding gap. By providing the right resources, including financial support and mentorship, we can empower one million women entrepreneurs by 2025. This will not only help them succeed but also create stronger communities and contribute to global economic growth.”

Shalini Warrier, Executive Director of Federal Bank, addressing the financial challenges, stated, “Women entrepreneurs often face an uphill battle in securing the capital they need to start and grow their businesses. At Federal Bank, we believe in removing those barriers by offering financial products tailored to women-led enterprises. By providing more accessible funding solutions, we not only help businesses grow but also drive economic progress. Women-led businesses are poised to transform our economy, and it's time we actively support them.”

The Beyond Barriers 2024 event served as a vital platform for addressing the challenges and opportunities facing women entrepreneurs. It emphasized the need for greater financial support, mentorship, and inclusive policies to empower women-led businesses. As discussions progressed, it was evident that supporting women in business is not only about gender equality but also about unlocking immense potential for societal and economic growth. With continued investment and encouragement, women entrepreneurs can play a transformative role in driving sustainable progress and contributing to the global economy.