Tag: Leadership

Sports

Sonia Raman Becomes the First Indian-American Woman to Lead a WNBA Team

Tanisha Cardozo

Sonia Raman’s story is one of courage, purpose, and quiet persistence — a journey defined by bold choices and unshakable belief. A former basketball player at Tufts University, Raman earned her law degree from Boston College and began her career as an attorney. But the courtroom wasn’t where her heart was — her true calling was on the basketball court.

Taking a leap of faith, she left law to pursue coaching full-time, joining the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where she led the women’s basketball team for over a decade. Her leadership and dedication to player development earned her a reputation as one of the most respected coaches in collegiate basketball.

In 2020, Raman broke another barrier by joining the NBA’s Memphis Grizzlies as an assistant coach, bringing her strategic mind and analytical approach to the professional arena. Now, she’s made history once again — appointed as the head coach of the Seattle Storm, becoming the first Indian-American woman to lead a WNBA team.

Her achievement is not only a personal milestone but also a significant moment for representation in sports. For many women, immigrants, and aspiring athletes of color, Raman’s rise symbolizes what’s possible when passion meets purpose. Her journey is proof that there is no single path to success — only the courage to follow one’s own.

Business

Ragini Das: From Setback to Google Leadership – A Full-Circle Journey

allycaralgoa

In a story that proves patience, perseverance, and purpose always pay off, Ragini Das, co-founder of Leap.club, has been appointed Head of Google for Startups, India.

What makes this journey particularly inspiring is that 12 years ago, Ragini didn’t clear Google’s final interview. Instead, she joined Zomato, where she learned and grew, eventually co-founding Leap.club, a women-focused professional network that empowered thousands of women to connect and excel in their careers.

After Leap.club paused operations in June 2025, Ragini took time off to rest, travel, and rediscover herself. Soon after, she discovered a role at Google perfectly aligned with her experience and passion for supporting founders. She describes it as a “full-circle moment”, the same company that once rejected her now welcoming her as a leader.

Ragini’s story is a reminder that rejection isn’t the end; it can be a redirection to something bigger. Her journey from setback to success underscores the power of resilience, learning, and staying true to one’s purpose.

— Reported by Allycaral | Connecting Global

EduConnect

Prof. (Dr.) Karuna Gokarn Appointed as First Woman Principal of St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai

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Mumbai, October 2025: In a landmark development for one of India’s most prestigious educational institutions, Prof. (Dr.) Karuna Gokarn has been appointed as the Principal of St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai (subject to University and Government approval). This appointment marks a historic milestone, as Dr. Gokarn becomes the first woman to lead the college in its 156-year history since its establishment in 1869.

A senior faculty member of the Department of Microbiology, Dr. Gokarn has been associated with the institution for many years, contributing significantly to its academic and administrative progress. In her previous roles as Vice Principal (Academics) and Director of the Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC), she demonstrated exceptional leadership and strategic vision.

Dr. Gokarn also served as the NEP Nodal Officer, playing a key role in the successful implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, ensuring that the college adapted seamlessly to new academic frameworks.

Her appointment is seen as a progressive step towards inclusive leadership in higher education, symbolizing the institution’s commitment to diversity and empowerment.

The college community has warmly congratulated Dr. Gokarn on her appointment, recognizing her dedication to academic innovation, holistic education, and student welfare.

As St. Xavier’s College embarks on a new chapter under her leadership, the institution looks forward to strengthening its legacy of excellence, while fostering an environment of equality, inspiration, and growth.

EduConnect

Igniting Minds & Values: An Inspiring Session at Shreemant Kshatrajagatguru Residential High School, Mathagaon

Tanisha Cardozo

It was a truly inspiring experience at Shreemant Kshatrajagatguru Residential High School, Mathagaon (Bhudargad, Kolhapur) — a place where discipline, vision, and youthful potential converge.

The interactive sessions were thoughtfully designed to empower students with two key pillars: Life Values & Self-Belief, and Cyber Awareness. In today’s rapidly evolving world, the ability to stay grounded in values while navigating the digital space responsibly is essential.

Students responded with enthusiasm, intelligence, and maturity, demonstrating why institutions like this one are vital in shaping the future of our nation. Their energy was matched by their focus, and their questions reflected genuine curiosity and commitment to growth.

A heartfelt thank you to Shri Manjeet Benadikar (Dada), Headmaster Shri Y. K. Patil, and the entire staff for the warm welcome and their tireless dedication to student development. Their efforts are clearly reflected in the high levels of discipline and integrity seen in every corner of the school.

A special highlight of the visit was meeting the NCC Cadets, who impressed with their remarkable discipline, leadership spirit, and patriotic zeal. Their presence stood as a powerful reminder of the values that build a resilient and responsible generation.

The day concluded with a deep sense of purpose — that together, through awareness, discipline, and belief in self, we can build a smarter, safer, and stronger future for the next generation.

Human Interest

From Student to Guest Lecturer: Siddesh Shripad Naik Inspires Future Leaders at MIT School of Government, Pune, Maharashtra

allycaralgoa

North Goa Zilla Panchayat elected representative Siddesh Shripad Naik recently took the podium at MIT School of Government in Pune, Maharashtra, sharing his experience and insights on the structure and functioning of Zilla Panchayats.

Naik, who began his journey as a student himself, reflected on his progression to becoming a public representative and guest lecturer. During the interactive session, he highlighted the responsibilities, challenges, and strategic importance of Panchayat governance, offering students a comprehensive understanding of local administration.

The session fostered an engaging environment, encouraging students to actively participate and ask questions about the functioning of governance at the grassroots level. Naik expressed his honor in contributing to civic education and inspiring young leaders.

“This experience was truly special. Sharing insights with such an engaged audience reinforces the importance of understanding governance from the ground up,” Naik stated.

The lecture is part of MIT School of Government in Pune, Maharashtra’s ongoing efforts to expose students to practical insights from current leaders, blending academic learning with real-world governance experience.