Vidya Chamundeswari N.

Giving back is a big part of my personal philosophy and the mission and vision of LOTUS STEMM fell in synergy with my philosophy. Mentorship, leadership and networking opportunities were rare when I needed it while I was a student. Despite having supportive family members and friends, not having visibility and accessibility to female role models in STEMM was a barrier. And when I did find mentors and female STEMM professionals that I could share and learn from, it made a huge difference. Academia, as a career pathway and all the stress that stems from it for South Asian females is still a challenge and a path that hasn't had much visibility. By sharing my experiences, and listening to others, I hope to fill in that gap in my small way. I am affirmative that this role as a member of the Board of Directors, is the right step in giving back to the South Asian community and learn, lean on and embrace the diversity and challenges that women go through at different stages of their careers.