In our latest podcast episode, we take a look the remarkable journey of Lavanya Ramanujan, a Chartered Accountant at Google who intertwines her professional work with her passion for sustainability. Lavanya’s story is one of unexpected turns and deliberate choices that vividly illustrate how one can forge a career contributing to the greater good. From her early days to her current role, she shares how influences from her surroundings drive her commitment to excellence and positive impact, both in finance and social responsibility. As she recounts her experiences, listeners are taken on an exploration of how professional paths can lead to fulfilling and significant contributions to society. Her diverse roles, from working at Deloitte to her current involvement with the Ground Up Initiative, showcase how each experience builds towards something meaningful.
From Chartered Accountancy to sustainability: Lavanya Ramanujan’s inspiring journey
Lavanya’s entry into finance and sustainability was serendipitous. Initially, she did not foresee her future in accountancy, yet a significant award at university opened the door to numerous opportunities that defined her professional path. More than simply reflecting on achievements, she illustrates the significance of community and dedication to social causes, emphasising that her journey has been molded by chance encounters and strategic choices. As she rose through the ranks, her continued focus on sustainability and community service became prominent, fostering a philosophy that one’s role is not only to succeed individually but also to uplift those around us, encouraging a collective journey towards social and environmental responsibility.
One of the core highlights of the episode is Lavanya’s discussion on Ground Up Initiative (GUI), where she serves as an advisor. The GUI is a non-profit organisation in Singapore dedicated to creating a connection between nature and people, enhancing the importance of community and purpose in human experience. Lavanya explains that the initiative offers platforms where individuals can come together to not only learn about sustainability but also to engage in hands-on activities that create a real sense of belonging. The farm programs and DIY workshops she describes serve to empower volunteers while helping to cultivate crucial life skills. Such engagements are instrumental in fostering a love for nature and promoting conservation, as participants not only gain knowledge but also develop a strong network of like-minded individuals.
Her inspiring journey towards creating change is underlined by the values of kindness and empathy. Lavanya underscores that these principles are critical for personal growth and building relationships in professional environments. Citing mentors and their influence on her approach to leadership, she explains how creating a culture of empathy in the workplace can lead to improved teamwork and productivity. She believes that kindness can enhance accountability, creating an atmosphere where people feel valued and motivated to contribute positively. Furthermore, the realisation that supporting one another creates a coherent environment extends beyond professional success to personal fulfillment, emphasising the importance of community bonds.
For those interested in making a similar impact, Lavanya offers significant advice for aspiring professionals in the finance and sustainability sectors. She encourages individuals to find unique ways to contribute, emphasising that not everyone needs to deliver value in the same way. Opportunities exist in not only volunteering but also donating and participating in corporate social responsibility initiatives. It is essential for professionals to realise that contributions can be made outside their core roles, helping expand sustainability initiatives to new horizons. This insight resonates with anyone looking to create change while navigating their professional responsibilities.
The reflections shared also touch on personal vulnerabilities and the importance of self-awareness in the journey of career development. Lavanya illustrates her growth by highlighting the necessity of balancing expectations and understanding diverse perspectives. Her experiences resonate with the idea that individual growth often comes from learning how to better support and empathise with others. This mindset facilitates pivotal transformations, making workplaces not only more efficient but also more humane.
Overall, Lavanya’s story serves not just as professional advice but as exceptional motivator for embracing the principles of kindness and sustainability. In a world where productivity often overshadows empathy, her journey reminds listeners about the immense potential for collective action and personal transformation through small, consistent contributions grounded in the values of kindness. As we explore her journey through finance and social good, may we be inspired to create a more compassionate and sustainable world.
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