Dr Kalpana Sankar’s journey from the world of nuclear physics to that of business is nothing short of spectacular, but it came with the same set of challenges women leaders face every day.

While people kept questioning her ability to lead an organization, she continued breaking through gender barriers and proving her leadership. Over the last two decades, every step she took was put under the microscope, and yet she not only successfully built an impactful NGO with an unwavering mission and value system but also created a sustainable business, both with the objective of helping people make a better life for themselves through education and empowerment.

In The Scientist Entrepreneur: Empowering Millions of Women, Dr Sankar narrates how she co-founded Hand in Hand India in a small room in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, and went on to expand its operations to 18 Indian states and several countries worldwide. This autobiography aims to inspire young people to take up social entrepreneurship and goes beyond her personal story, covering her work with the underserved segments of society. Through anecdotes and reflections, she explains how a clear vision, combined with hard work, can make all the difference.

Dr Kalpana Sankar is a shining example of a woman with passion, grit and empathy.