Vibha Thusu, Industrial Automation (IA) eCommerce Program Leader – Marketing & Communications at Schneider Electric shares, IWD 2025 is a powerful call to move beyond words and into meaningful action
What are your views on this year’s IWD 2025 theme “Accelerate Action”? How can we truly achieve diversity and inclusion in the workplace?
Vibha Thusu: The theme “Accelerate Action” for IWD 2025 is a powerful call to move beyond words and into meaningful action. While we’ve spent years discussing diversity and inclusion, it’s now time to shift from awareness to implementation.
To truly achieve diversity and inclusion in the workplace, these values must be embedded into every layer of an organization. This starts with hiring practices that actively prioritize diverse talent and extends to creating mentorship programs that support underrepresented groups in advancing their careers. Leaders at all levels must also be held accountable for fostering inclusive environments where everyone feels they belong.
But diversity alone isn’t enough. True inclusion means creating a culture where every voice is heard, valued, and empowered to contribute. This requires ongoing commitment, but the impact is transformative—driving progress, strengthening teams, and shaping a workplace where everyone can thrive.
Can you share your journey into the tech world and what inspired you to pursue this? Where did it all start?
Vibha Thusu: My journey began with a strong academic foundation in technology and information systems. I’ve always been fascinated by how systems work and how technology can solve real-world problems. However, after completing my education, I found myself drawn to the creative side of technology—specifically, its ability to communicate and connect people.
This led me to make a deliberate transition into marketing and communications, where I saw an opportunity to blend my technical knowledge with my passion for storytelling and audience engagement. As a MarCom professional, I’ve been able to leverage my tech background to understand data, analytics, and systems, which are crucial in today’s digital marketing landscape.
For me, this shift was about combining analytical thinking with creativity to drive impactful, data-driven strategies. Today, I continue to embrace the power of technology to transform how we communicate and connect with audiences. I’m also passionate about helping others recognize the immense value of this intersection.
Who would you consider your role model, someone who constantly inspires you?
Vibha Thusu: To me, every woman is an inspiration. The strength, resilience, and tenacity women demonstrate every day—whether in the workplace, at home, or within their communities—constantly inspire me. It’s the woman who breaks barriers in her career while balancing family, the one who challenges societal norms to create space for others, and the woman who quietly uplifts those around her. All of these women shape my perspective and fuel my passion to do better.
I am deeply inspired by the stories of women who have faced adversity and emerged stronger, who embrace their authenticity and use their voices to create change. The women in my life, both personally and professionally, have each contributed to who I am today and continue to push me to be the best version of myself.
Rapid Fire (Let’s get to know you more)
- Dinner with a famous personality, who would it be? – Elon Musk
- One skill you wish you could learn instantly? AI programming
- Android or Apple? 😃 Apple
- WhatsApp or Telegram? WhatsApp
- Phone call or text message/email? Phone call
- Beaches or Mountains? Beaches
- Coffee or Tea? Karak Tea
- Early Bird or Night owl? Night owl
- Books or Movies? Both
- Winter or Summer? Summer
- Online shopping or in-store shopping? Both
What advice would you give to women starting off their careers, aspiring to enter the tech/business field?
Vibha Thusu: Be unapologetically yourself—authenticity is your superpower. Never stop learning, growing, and hustling. As women, we bring a unique blend of emotional intelligence (EQ) and intellect to the table—leverage that strength to stand out. Surround yourself with a supportive tribe, lift each other up, and remember: your success is not just about climbing the ladder but also about bringing others along with you. Together, we rise!
