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Kaabil shines light on women who power change
MUMBAI: They came, they skilled, they conquered. Mahindra & Mahindra’s Kaabil initiative and Centum Foundation have unveiled a stirring new film that celebrates the extraordinary journeys of women who turned opportunity into empowerment.
Conceptualised by Upgrad Enterprise’s marketing team, the short film spotlights women from across 19 states whose lives have been transformed through skill-based training and sustainable livelihoods. Told through powerful first-person stories, it’s a moving ode to resilience, dignity and the quiet revolution taking shape in rural India.
Opening with a voiceover comparing women’s strength to ‘Shakti’, the film captures the struggles and triumphs of women finding their footing in sectors like automotive, retail and customer service. The Kaabil Initiative, Mahindra Group’s flagship CSR programme, has already trained over 20,000 women across 250 locations, with more than 9,000 placed in meaningful jobs, many for the very first time.
Mahindra & Mahindra head of women’s empowerment Pooja Nanda said, “Kaabil aims to empower one million women by 2027 through skilling and employability. Our partnership with Centum Foundation has helped us scale our impact and foster lasting livelihoods.”
Adding to this, Upgrad Enterprise revenue head Sunita Mohant noted, “These women aren’t just statistics, they’re stories of courage and transformation. Their ambition proves that India’s growth isn’t limited to its cities.”
With its heartwarming visuals and purpose-led storytelling, the film goes beyond awareness to ignite inspiration, reminding viewers that true empowerment begins when skill meets opportunity.
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Celsius100 Consulting names Rhys Rufus CEO
Long-time leader steps up as firm bets on continuity to drive next growth phase
BENGALURU: Celsius100 Consulting Private Limited has elevated long-serving leader Rhys Rufus to chief executive officer, marking a leadership shift as the firm prepares for its next phase of growth.
Rufus takes over from founder S Ghosh, who will continue as founder and managing director. In his new role, Ghosh will focus on strategic direction and new business opportunities, while Rufus assumes responsibility for daily operations and growth initiatives.
The appointment caps a 16-year journey for Rufus at the company. Having joined in its early years, he went on to build Celsius100’s digital services arm from scratch, turning it into one of the firm’s fastest-growing verticals. Under his leadership, the company strengthened its capabilities across digital marketing strategy, performance marketing, campaign execution and measurement.
Beyond digital, Rufus has played a key role in shaping the organisation’s talent pool and expanding its client base. He has led business development efforts across India and helped extend the firm’s footprint into the United Kingdom, reinforcing its position as a cross-market consulting partner.
“Rhys has been the backbone of our growth story for 16 years. He built our digital services practice from scratch, assembled a brilliant team, and won the trust of clients in India and the UK. His calm temperament, his deep commitment to quality, and his ability to forge lasting partnerships make him the ideal person to lead Celsius100 into its next chapter. I could not be more confident in this transition,” said Celsius100 Consulting Private Limited founder and managing director S Ghosh.
Rufus struck a reflective note on taking charge. “Celsius100 has been home for the better part of my professional life and I am deeply honoured to take on this responsibility. We have built something unique together over almost two decades, and I look forward to working with our talented team and valued clients to take the company to new heights. Our focus will remain on delivering work that truly transforms our partners’ businesses,” said Rufus.
Colleagues describe Rufus as a steady hand under pressure and a leader who prioritises long-term relationships. His elevation signals a clear bet on continuity, with the company choosing to promote from within rather than look outside for leadership.
As Celsius100 enters its next chapter, the transition reflects both stability and ambition, with a familiar face now steering the firm towards fresh opportunities.
