Our Everyday Superwomen - Dr. Ayesha Khanna
She's a daughter, a sister, a mother and more. She's an everyday woman with multiple roles, and exceptional in her own ways. In our October: The Staples launch, 3 everyday superwomen share with us their stories on finding balance and excelling in their various roles.
Tell us about yourself!
I am a Mom, an entrepreneur and a philanthropist! I love all things data and technology. I help very large companies build data platforms and use AI to become more efficient and customer centric. I'm also a passionate advocate of teaching women about AI and promoting the ethical use of AI.
What’s a day like for you, as the CEO of an artificial intelligence solutions firm, ADDO AI? Sum up your day in three words.
My day is divided into three parts: working with my team on helping our clients use the goldmine that is their data, spending time with my clients on how AI can help them achieve their goals, and finally, some me-time, in which I upskill myself on the latest in my field or just think about strategy for our firm.
If I had to sum my day in three words it would be: teamwork, customer obsession and joy!
We know that women are still a minority in STEM roles, why do you think it’s important to fight against the traditional gender bias in these roles?
Diversity and inclusivity are key in tech because digital, data and AI are becoming pervasive in every part of our lives and businesses, and we can't have responsible, equitable products if traditional biases persist.
Thankfully, things are changing and we are seeing more girls than ever moving into STEM. I would say to all women: no matter your age, no matter your passion, take a basic course in technology and business. It will give you the creative confidence to be an innovative and high performance worker in any field, and you are more than capable of learning the basics!
"THE JOURNEY AND THE COMPANY YOU KEEP ON THAT JOURNEY IS SO MUCH MORE FULFILLING THAN THE MOMENT YOU ACHIEVE ANY GOAL."
If you can provide only one advice on how you juggle playing so many roles, what would it be?
Don't rush anything. I know it sounds counterintuitive since it seems we are juggling so many balls as women, but if you slow down, you become more productive and have more fun in each role. Of course, it takes me more time to achieve certain things, but that's just fine for me!
How can women empower themselves to bring out the best in them?
We should continually upskill ourselves and pursue new ideas that will help us grow (for example, I would recommend taking a beginner's course in data analytics as that's a part of every business now). And we should also take advantage of the power of the women's network, and reach out to help and get help from other women!
If you can provide only one piece of advice for work-life balance, what would it be?
I found myself much happier after I changed my mindset and began to see each day as a step in my journey of life. I now choose to focus on the present instead of the future. The journey and the company you keep on that journey is so much more fulfilling than the moment you achieve any goal.
If there’s one The Staples item that you can’t live without, what will it be? Why?
I love the Corey Scoop Neck Crop Sleeve Top because it's so versatile and can be worn for a business meeting and then easily for a night out as well!
