I grew up in Patna, where I pursued Chemistry Honours at Patna University. Later, I moved to Delhi to complete my MCA in 2005. My career began with an internship at HCL Noida,and later received an offer from Absolute Data Tech as a Data Analyst. I joined as a programmer, worked hard, got promoted, and became a team lead.
Then came the break. A 15- year long career break. Taking a step back from the IT industry was tough. But at that time, it was necessary. My kids were young, and there was no support system to take care of them.
Years passed. The itch to return never faded. I wanted to get back, but the industry had moved forward, and I felt left behind.
During my career gap, I stayed busy—I taught my kids, tutored children in my neighborhood, and remained alert to the changing world. Cybersecurity and privacy caught my attention. It felt like the right field to step into.
I started small. Online courses, workshops, and networking. I joined communities, connected with professionals, and explored every opportunity. It was exhausting, but I kept going.
Then I came across the Cyber Shikshaa program on LinkedIn. I applied for it, hoping for a chance. That decision changed everything.
I was shortlisted. The program, organized by Tsaaro Academy, provided online training in privacy and data protection. Mentors guided us through global privacy regulations. We received detailed study materials and books.
For many of us, coming from humble backgrounds, this was a huge help.
The best part was my batchmates. We studied together, supported each other, and pushed through obstacles. I registered for the DCPP certification, dedicating four hours daily for a month to prepare. It wasn’t easy—household chores, my husband’s surgery, life’s endless responsibilities—but I stayed focused.
The team arranged guidance programs, and successful alumni shared their journeys. Their stories inspired me.
The day I cleared the exam in one go, I knew I had made the right choice. The program didn’t just end there. The team helped with job hunting, encouraged me at every step, and never let me feel alone in the process.
By God’s grace, I landed a role as a Data Privacy Executive at EXL.
To every woman on a career break, wondering if a second chance is possible, I say this— “You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.”