Astha Batra, Field Marketing Manager, Middle East & Levant at Vertiv shares, we should prioritize creating an environment where women are supported, recognized for their contributions
What are your views on this year’s IWD 2025 theme “Accelerate Action”, how can we truly achieve diversity and inclusion in the workplace?
Astha Batra: The IWD 2025 theme, “Accelerate Action”, is a reminder that real progress comes from empowering individuals based on talent, hard work, and merit. As a woman in tech, I believe the best way to drive inclusion is by ensuring that women have equal access to opportunities, mentorship, and the tools needed to excel. Rather than focusing solely on diversity targets, we should prioritize creating an environment where women are supported, recognized for their contributions, and encouraged to take on leadership roles. True inclusion happens when skill and dedication are the driving forces of success, allowing women to thrive and lead based on their expertise.
Can you share your journey into the tech world and what inspired you to pursue this, where did it all start?
Astha Batra: My journey into the tech world wasn’t a planned move, but I feel incredibly fortunate to have found my place in this industry. With a background in FMCG and staffing, my move to Dubai was driven by a desire to explore an exciting opportunity that would help me understand the market, the people, and the organizations shaping the Middle East landscape. I got my start working with a leading personal computers company, managing both B2B and B2C activities across the Gulf. That experience opened the door to a broader B2B role in the wider Middle East market, which I embraced wholeheartedly. Since then, I’ve been thoroughly enjoying this space—there’s something new to learn every day, and the Middle East remains one of the most dynamic and fast-evolving regions for technology. With endless opportunities to explore, experiment, and drive impact, this industry continues to challenge and inspire me, and I look forward to being part of it for a long time.
Who would you consider your role model, someone who constantly inspires you? (Does not really have to be from the professional world only, can be someone at home too )
Astha Batra: I can’t pinpoint just one person as a role model because, honestly, there are so many. I’ve been inspired by people in my office, my family, colleagues from other companies, and even characters on TV shows! I truly admire hard and smart work and constantly strive to do better by learning from those around me. If I had to highlight one group, it would be working moms. Balancing two demanding roles—showing up, adapting, excelling (at different times!)—is no small feat. Being part of this community of dreamers and achievers is something I deeply appreciate and draw strength from every day.
Rapid Fire (Let’s get to know you more)
- Dinner with a famous personality, who would it be? J. K. Rowling
- One skill you wish you could learn instantly? Arabic language
- Android or Apple? Apple, please!
- WhatsApp or Telegram? WhatsApp
- Phone call or text message/email? Depends on the day of the week 😊
- Beaches or Mountains? Mountains and valleys!
- Coffee or Tea? Tea!
- Early Bird or Night owl? Early bird
- Books or Movies? Movies
- Winter or Summer? Spring & fall
- Online shopping or in-store shopping? Shopping 😊
What advice would you give to women starting off their careers, aspiring to enter the tech/business field?
Astha Batra: Think beyond the gender! Your career is your own journey—carve it out in a way that is uniquely yours. The tech and business world are fast-moving, full of opportunities, and constantly evolving—so embrace the challenges, and never be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. Most importantly, have fun in whatever you do, because when you enjoy the ride, you’ll want to stay on it for a long, long time!
