Meenakshi Ashtekar

I attribute my success to perseverance and a sustained commitment to community service. Early in my U.S. journey, while on an H4 visa and not yet eligible to work, I volunteered with hospitals, nonprofits, and international recruiting efforts—experiences that built cultural empathy, sharpened people skills, and informed how I support employees and leaders today. Those volunteer opportunities, combined with each professional role since, taught practical lessons and resilience that continue to shape my approach to HR and drive meaningful outcomes for teams and organizations.

The world evolves constantly—and so do the skills, technologies, and ways we work. One of the most valuable lessons in my career has been the importance of staying adaptable and open to change, especially as new technologies continue to shape the workplace.

Growth doesn’t come from staying comfortable. It comes from curiosity, continuous learning, and the willingness to evolve. Embracing new developments has helped me grow not only professionally, but also in how I think, lead, and support others.

If there’s one mindset that has served me well, it’s this: never stop learning.

For young women considering a career in human resources, my advice is to begin by giving back to the community. The more you connect with people from different walks of life, the more you grow—not just professionally, but personally. HR is not simply about working through reports from an office; it is about meaningful human connection. Each employee brings a unique cultural background, life experience, and perspective, and truly effective HR professionals take the time to understand and honor those differences.

Community involvement helps build empathy, confidence, and self-awareness—qualities that allow you to support employees with clarity and compassion. As you give more of yourself to others, you also gain invaluable insight that strengthens your ability to serve.

It is also important to remember that human resources is a broad and evolving field. Some individuals discover a passion for HR analytics or technology, while others are drawn to employee relations, benefits, or leave management. You don’t need to have it all figured out on day one. Through exploration and experience, your strengths will naturally reveal themselves. Continued learning and education can further support that journey, helping you grow into the role where you can make the greatest impact.

A central challenge is reconciling employee expectations—particularly regarding accommodations and flexibility—with organizational imperatives and customer-facing requirements. HR must assess requests against legal obligations and business feasibility, proposing alternative accommodations where appropriate. This dynamic affords HR the opportunity to serve as a strategic advisor through comprehensive analysis and balanced recommendations

Integrity and transparency are the foundation of both my professional and personal life. I believe in being honest, ethical, and consistent in my actions, even when decisions are challenging. Attention to detail is especially important to me, as it reflects accountability and respect for the people and organizations I serve.

I also place a high value on emotional intelligence. Understanding perspectives, showing empathy, and communicating thoughtfully allow me to build strong relationships and create trust. These values guide how I lead, collaborate, and support others, ensuring that my work is not only effective but also meaningful and principled.