Ques. Can you provide a short introduction about yourself?
I’m Navya, and my upbringing has been shaped by living in various parts of India: North, East, and the West, giving me a rich and diverse perspective on life. I completed my bachelor’s degree in Commerce from Ramjas College of Delhi University, and I proudly identify as the quintessential North Campus enthusiast. My college years were a perfect blend of academic rigor and active involvement in organizing events and participating in DU’s vibrant cultural scene.
I spent a lot of time in Enactus and the Consulting Club, following my passion for teamwork and creating a positive impact. My journey also includes being part of women-focused fellowship programs, reflecting my dedication to empowerment and leadership.
Currently, I’m pursuing my studies at London Business School, where I’m diving into a dynamic professional network and adjusting to the exciting pace of life in London. Besides academics, I’m passionate about social entrepreneurship and love expressing my creative side through arts, dance, and painting. Trying out new cuisines and seeking out adventures also keeps life exciting and full of growth!
Ques. Could you share the process and steps you followed to achieve success in the EY NextGen Women national and global competition?
The EY NextGen Women Global Competition is an annual event, known by different names in the past, with each country having its unique format. In India, the competition involved a case challenge. Out of many participants, 16 to 18 of us were shortlisted for a three-day program, which turned out to be an unforgettable experience. During this time, I had the privilege of collaborating with some of the most talented women in the country, many of whom have become my closest friends.
The event was held at EY’s office, where we were introduced to their services and company culture. Alongside these learning sessions, we were given a challenge to solve and present our solutions to a panel of senior professionals. The evaluation wasn’t just about the case, but it was also about holistic assessment of our personalities, problem-solving skills, and overall presence.
At the end of the competition, I was excited to be selected as the representative of India. A few months later, this journey took me to Dublin for the global competition. Similar to the experience in India, I met 20 to 21 incredible women from around the world, each bringing unique perspectives and energy to the event. It was an extraordinary and humbling experience to connect with such accomplished individuals.
Ultimately, the award wasn’t just about your performance in the challenge but also centered on personality, how you present yourself, and how you embody the values of leadership and authenticity. Representing India on a global stage was a dream come true and remains one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.
Ques. How do you maintain effective and clear communication with your team in a competitive environment?
I believe I excel in verbal communication, whether in group settings or one-on-one interactions. I make it a point to not just speak but to actively listen and respond thoughtfully. I value meaningful dialogue and ensure that my contributions are well-reasoned and impactful, which are often guided by both logic and intuition. Trusting my emotions and gut feelings allow me to gain confidence in my vision and see the direction things are likely to take.
In team settings, I strongly believe in the importance of embracing diverse perspectives. Effective communication isn’t just about being subtle and professional, it’s equally about building cultural and emotional connections with team members. This balance fosters collaboration and strengthens relationships. For me, communication is most effective when driven by both vision and reason, creating clarity and alignment in any discussion or project.
Ques. How do you deal with the criticism from judges?
When it comes to handling criticism from judges, I believe it’s important to be able to shift our perspective. Often, when participating in competitions or applying for jobs, we hope for feedback or constructive criticism, but the reality is that judges or evaluators may not always have the time to provide detailed reasoning. So, at times you almost end up receiving criticism. Whether the outcome is in your favour or not, the situation should be viewed as a privilege and an opportunity for growth.
That said, receiving criticism is never easy, especially when you’ve invested significant effort into your work, only for it to feel overlooked or undervalued. However, I believe the best way to approach it is to acknowledge that if someone else performed better or if the judges highlighted shortcomings, there’s always something to learn. Criticism often comes with suggestions or areas for improvement, and focusing on those positives is far more productive than dwelling on what went wrong.
For me, constructive criticism is healthy and essential for growth. I make it a point to incorporate the feedback into my future performances, using it as a stepping stone to improve. At the same time, I avoid being overly defensive or dismissive of the feedback, and I ensure it doesn’t shake my confidence. Instead, I take it as an opportunity to refine my skills and continue striving for better outcomes.
Ques. Do you believe participating in different competitions at the college level has prepared you for global win?
I believe participating in various competitions definitely played a role in preparing me for a global win. For me, it has always been about quality over quantity. There’s no specific mantra for achieving a global or national win, but one thing that has always worked for me is consistent effort.
Staying consistently engaged in activities and honing a particular skill over time is what truly makes the difference. Consistency helps you to not only refine your abilities but also build the confidence and experience needed to perform at higher levels. So, while participating in competitions is valuable, it’s the commitment to consistent performance and improvement that truly sets you on the path to success.
Ques. You are currently studying at the most prestigious university LBS. How was that experience so far?
Studying at London Business School has been incredibly inspiring and rewarding so far. It’s honestly been a mix of emotions—challenging, exciting, and full of opportunities. Getting into my dream university was a surreal moment, and being here has only reinforced why it was my top choice.
What really stands out to me is the sheer diversity of the LBS community. Being surrounded by people from so many different cultural and professional backgrounds makes every discussion—whether it’s a debate in class or brainstorming in group projects—so enriching. The professors aren’t just experts in their fields; they’re passionate mentors who challenge us to think critically and enhance our classroom experience even more. But learning goes beyond the classroom. At LBS, it’s all about exposure—networking with industry leaders and alumni—and I really value the emphasis on people skills and leadership now, because it’s not just about becoming a better professional but also about growing personally.
Then there’s London. The city’s energy is infectious. Every corner has something to offer- whether it’s industry events, cultural festivals, or just exploring its neighbourhoods. It’s a city that constantly keeps you inspired and on your toes.
What’s also been surprisingly special for me is how much I’ve reconnected with my roots here. The Indian community at LBS and in London is so warm and welcoming, and celebrating festivals with them has been a lovely reminder of home. It’s that balance of feeling grounded while being exposed to this global environment that makes the experience so unique.
It’s still early in the journey, but every day here feels like an opportunity to learn, grow, and challenge myself. I’m excited to see how the rest of this experience unfolds
Ques. Transition from DU to LBS was a big shift so did you experience any cultural shock there?
Absolutely, transitioning from DU to LBS was definitely a cultural shift. My fellow DU mates would understand the deep connection we share; no matter where you go, being a DU student is an identity that stays with you. The DU experience is unique; it’s not just about attending classes but about the vibrant life outside the classroom. From sitting on the lawns with friends to grabbing a bite at Maggi stalls in Kamla Nagar or exploring Old Delhi’s bustling markets, DU is all about living in the moment. It’s the phase of early adulthood where you’re forming lifelong friendships, exploring new emotions, and experiencing your first taste of freedom; dressing how you want, partying, or crashing at a friend’s place.
At LBS, however, the shift is significant. It’s a more professional and structured environment. Here, you’re in business school, where even snow doesn’t cancel classes, and the focus is on growth through professional networking, attending talks by CEOs, and preparing for your career. It’s a stark contrast to the spontaneity of DU, where you’d hear about a dance competition or a concert happening on campus, and the energy of Delhi was all around you.
Another difference is the diversity. While DU is vibrant and diverse in its own way, at LBS, the diversity is global, with people from various backgrounds and cultures bringing unique perspectives to the table.
In terms of the transition, I’d say DU shaped me into the person I am today. You can take me out of DU, but you can’t take DU out of me. I carry that spirit with me, and I hope that, just like DU, LBS will leave a lasting mark on me as I represent it in the future.
Ques. Looking back on your journey, could you share your experience with Enactus Ramjas?
Enactus was truly my favorite place to be during college. From my first year, I was certain that I wanted to be part of it. I started as a Junior Associate, working on projects I was deeply passionate about, like upcycling fashion and collaborating with women from less privileged backgrounds. These projects gave me the opportunity to have meaningful interactions with these women, at least once a month, which was both inspiring and rewarding. During that time, I also took on the role of Public Relations Representative, where I was responsible for pitching our projects at various colleges and competitions. It was an incredible experience that not only honed my networking skills but also allowed me to develop my passion for presentations. Enactus provided the perfect platform to pitch ideas, showcase projects, and present myself confidently.
In my second year, I was promoted to Project Director and had the privilege of leading Khawb, an eco-friendly cosmetics brand. I also worked closely with an NGO supporting underprivileged children with special needs. Beyond the impact of these projects, the sense of fulfillment from contributing to such meaningful causes was unmatched.
Enactus was also a place where I built lifelong memories and friendships. It was through these college projects and society activities that I formed some of my closest bonds, and I feel incredibly fortunate for those connections.
One of the highlights of my journey was the Enactus World Cup, where our team made it to the top 4 finalists. I had the honor of being one of the presenters, and the entire experience; from pitching ideas to celebrating small victories; was filled with unforgettable moments.
Looking back, my journey with Enactus was incredibly fulfilling and joyful. Even now, as an alumna, I remain connected to it, cherishing the experiences and lessons it gave me.
Ques. Having interned with top companies like KPMG, what are the key lessons you have learned from these experiences?
My first corporate experience began with the D.E. Shaw Fellowship Program, where I gained valuable insights into company and corporate culture. It was a transformative learning experience, particularly about women in tech and finance, and how real-world work is conducted. I also learned essential skills such as presenting myself professionally and upskilling effectively. One of the biggest takeaways was building a network of incredible women and supportive peers, which I consider one of the most rewarding aspects of the program.
During my time with EY and KPMG, I explored my interest in consulting, a field I was drawn to during my college years as a commerce student. Internships, even those lasting just two months, provide a unique opportunity to understand the practical side of work. The professionals and mentors I worked with were incredibly supportive, offering invaluable guidance and opportunities to learn. They entrusted me with responsibilities, helping me develop hands-on skills and giving me the chance to grow under their mentorship.
One important lesson I learned is that what you study in a classroom doesn’t always align with real-world demands. Corporate life teaches you skills that are crucial for success, such as accountability, problem-solving, and hard work. In the workplace, there’s no room for excuses; you must be diligent, as both the company and its clients rely on your contributions. The responsibilities and expectations in the corporate world instill a strong sense of discipline and seriousness.
Another key takeaway is that your growth largely depends on your mindset and initiative. Wherever you work; be it a large corporation, a startup, or even a family business; it’s up to you to make the most of the experience. Being proactive, disciplined, and eager to learn are essential traits. Without them, even the best opportunities might fail to yield significant personal or professional growth.
Ques. Did you encounter any challenges in managing your academics, internships, and other responsibilities simultaneously?
Students often face numerous choices during college, and I’ve always been clear about not overburdening myself. While I have friends who worked alongside their college commitments, I chose to focus on my studies during college hours and reserved internships for my semester breaks. This approach allowed me to dedicate myself fully to whatever I took on, without spreading myself too thin. I prefer to give my best effort to everything I commit to, ensuring I can balance my responsibilities effectively.
I also believe in making time for yourself. The key is to stay disciplined and avoid procrastination. If you complete your tasks within the set deadlines, you’ll have time for your personal life. Balancing everything isn't particularly difficult, but there are certainly days when it feels overwhelming. On those days, I find that talking to friends helps me regain perspective and feel better.
Ques. What are your future aspirations?
My aspirations for the future involve pursuing unconventional and non-traditional paths that are both empowering and inspiring. I aim to continue motivating women and contributing to social causes. Personally, I want to prioritize travel and take time for myself, especially in a world where everyone is constantly rushing. I also hope to continue dancing and enjoying life.
Professionally, as I am working towards a global degree, I aspire to build an international career. Whether in consulting, marketing, or another field, I want to gain broad exposure, expand my knowledge, and continually upskill to grow both personally and professionally.
Highlights
1) EY NextGen Women 2023 - Global Winner
2) EY NextGen Women Competition 2023- India Winner
3) Second Runner-Up, National Social Enterprise Idea Challenge
4) 1st Position, Case Competition, Jaipuria Institute of Management, Lucknow
5) 2nd Position, Case Competition, NSUT Delhi
6) 3rd Position, Product Case Competition, NSUT Delhi
7) First Position, Shipwreck - Monologue competition, SRCC
8) First Position, Business Plan Competition, Ramanujan college
9) First Runner up, Business Plan Competition, JMC
10) First Runner-up at Plan D'affaires, Loyola College, Chennai
11) First Runner-up at Business Plan, Dr. Akhilesh Das Gupta Institute of Technology & Management
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