Anjana K Dharman
Program Manager - PED
Technopark - Trivandrum, Kerala
Skill you’d master instantly?
Understanding what truly motivates people.
A book, movie, or show that changed you
Siddhartha by Hermann Hesse.
Your automatic “yes” at work?
Meaningful collaboration that drives momentum.
One small win that makes your day?
Helping my team overcome a roadblock.
Work, Impact and Growth
Tell us about a time Inspirisys pushed you beyond your comfort zone.
One of the ways Inspirisys pushed me beyond my comfort zone was by encouraging me to invest in my own growth through the XL4W UpScale program. It gave me something we rarely make time for: the opportunity to slow down, reflect, and consciously examine how I show up as a leader, beyond my day-to-day deliverables.
It took me a while to step away from my usual outcome-driven mindset, but that shift created the space for meaningful self-reflection. The program challenged me to articulate my leadership perspective more clearly and look beyond immediate outcomes to better understand the impact I have on the people around me. It also helped me recognise the difference between being busy and being truly available for my team, through reflective listening, building trust, and creating an environment where others can bring their best to the table.
I came away with greater clarity about the kind of leader I want to be. Today, I'm more intentional about creating value by enabling the growth and success of my team and clients, while reminding myself that leadership is a continuous journey of learning and self-reflection.
Did you rethink any leadership belief after those two days of learning?
Yes, absolutely. I realised that I had subconsciously associated strong leadership with always being the one to lead every conversation and solve every problem. The program helped me reframe that belief. Effective leadership isn't just about certainty; it's equally about curiosity, openness, and being fully present.
One of my biggest takeaways was the power of asking thoughtful questions, listening without judgment, and creating space for others to contribute. I also realised that vulnerability isn't a weakness. When embraced with authenticity, it builds trust and strengthens relationships. Just as importantly, I learned that I don't always have to carry every challenge on my own. Some of the best outcomes come from inviting different perspectives and learning alongside others.
Perhaps the most valuable lesson was learning to balance emotional intelligence with professionalism, being empathetic while remaining objective and focused. That shift has helped me become a more grounded leader and has positively influenced the way I support my team and those around me.
How do you see women’s leadership being actively encouraged in your daily interactions at the office?
In my experience, Inspirisys has always been a workplace where opportunities are driven by capability and the value each individual brings, rather than by gender. As a woman, I've always felt confident sharing my opinions and have been given opportunities to take ownership of challenging initiatives.
I believe women leaders bring a unique balance of empathy, compassion, and resilience to the workplace. When these qualities are supported by an inclusive culture, they create positive influence not just within teams, but across the organization.
What’s one thing about our work culture you’d proudly tell an outsider?
What stands out to me most is the genuine empathy that's woven into our culture. At Inspirisys, there's a healthy balance between accountability and meaningful support. People are encouraged to take ownership, learn from mistakes, and never hesitate to ask for help when they need it.
That balance creates a workplace where people feel supported to grow, trust one another, and collaborate with confidence. To me, that's what truly sets our culture apart.
If you were to express appreciation to your team, what would you say thank you for?
I'd simply say thank you for always showing up for one another with trust, kindness, and a willingness to support each other. Every challenge becomes a little easier when you're surrounded by people who genuinely collaborate, share knowledge, and always have each other's back.
I'm also grateful to my mentors and peers, whose guidance and encouragement have shaped my journey. They've reminded me that leadership is never an individual effort. Whatever I've achieved has been possible because of the people I've had the privilege to learn and grow with.
Share a small habit that helps you stay confident at work.
Staying prepared helps me stay grounded and confident. I make it a habit to think ahead, anticipate challenges, and be ready for different possibilities, especially when situations become unpredictable. I also believe that continuously learning new skills gives me the confidence to adapt, no matter what comes my way.
Which lesson from a leader or teammate do you now pass on?
One of the most valuable lessons I've carried forward is to lead with humility and respect. Early in my career, I had the opportunity to work with a leader who was exceptionally knowledgeable, yet incredibly grounded and approachable. He treated everyone with the same respect, regardless of their role or title, and that left a lasting impression on me.
It made me realise that true leadership isn't about hierarchy, but about how you make people feel valued. It's a principle that continues to shape my leadership style and one I consciously encourage my team to embrace every day.
During high-pressure moments, what keeps your team united?
I believe clarity and trust make all the difference. When communication is open, expectations are clear, and everyone feels heard, challenges become shared responsibilities rather than falling on one person.
What advice would you give your younger self on day one at Inspirisys?
Trust yourself a little more and don't be afraid to share your perspective, even when you're still finding your footing. Growth begins the moment you realise that your voice has value.
Words of Wisdom
Progress is rarely loud or instant, but consistency, continuous learning, and self-belief quietly shape meaningful success. Stay open to new perspectives, invest in your growth, and remember that the small steps you take each day often lead to the biggest transformations over time.