Mumbai: As I sit down to write this, I can't help but reflect on the incredible journey I've embarked on as a female entrepreneur. In a world where gender stereotypes often dictate the boundaries of our ambitions, from a young age, I knew I wanted to be an entrepreneur, but I also knew that the path I was choosing was one less traveled by women. As a female entrepreneur, my journey has been an adventure, a test of resilience, and a relentless drive to shatter the glass ceiling that has confined women for far too long.

Let's begin with a startling fact: women have been founding businesses at a higher rate than men for the past two decades, according to the 2019 State of Women-Owned Businesses Report. But the road to success has rarely been a smooth one. My own journey as a female entrepreneur is filled with challenges that I have managed to overcome, and I'm proud to be part of a movement that is breaking down barriers and redefining what it means to be a businesswoman in the 21st century.

Like many women, I've encountered my fair share of gender stereotypes. Society often assumes that women are better suited for roles in caregiving, education, or administrative positions. Breaking out of these preconceived notions can be a daunting task, but it's one that's well worth the effort.

One of the most significant hurdles I faced was securing funding for my startup. Gender bias in the investment world is an unfortunate reality. According to a Harvard Business Review report, male entrepreneurs are more likely to receive funding, and when they do, it's usually a larger sum compared to their female counterparts. This inequality stems from various biases, including the misconception that women lack the necessary leadership skills for entrepreneurship.

My personal experience echoes these statistics. When I first pitched my business idea to investors, I was met with skepticism and questions about my ability to handle the challenges that lay ahead. Undeterred, I continued to refine my pitch and sought out mentors and networking opportunities within the female entrepreneur community. Slowly but surely, I found my tribe of like-minded individuals who provided unwavering support.

Overcoming gender stereotypes in entrepreneurship doesn't just require resilience; it also calls for a shift in perspective. It's about embracing the power of diversity and recognising that the qualities that women bring to the table can be assets, not liabilities. Studies have shown that diverse teams tend to perform better, are more innovative, and generate greater profits.

In my experience, I've found that women often possess qualities that make them exceptional entrepreneurs. Empathy, collaboration, and a keen understanding of consumer needs are among the many strengths that women bring to the business world. When I learned to leverage these qualities to my advantage, my business began to thrive.

Building a network of supportive individuals was another crucial step in my journey. As a female entrepreneur, it's essential to connect with mentors, advisors, and peers who understand the unique challenges we face. Many organisations and platforms have been created specifically to help women succeed in business. These communities provide a safe space to share experiences, exchange advice, and offer a sense of belonging.

Another inspiring statistic is the growth of women-owned businesses, which has surged by 21 per cent over the last five years, according to the American Express 2021 State of Women-Owned Businesses Report. This significant increase in female entrepreneurship is a testament to our collective ability to overcome gender stereotypes and achieve remarkable success.

It's clear that gender stereotypes continue to exist, but it's also evident that women are not only defying these stereotypes but reshaping the entrepreneurial landscape. With persistence, support networks, and an unshakable belief in our abilities, we can thrive in the world of business.

In my journey as a female entrepreneur, I've learned that it's not about fighting gender stereotypes; it's about dismantling them. It's about challenging the notion that entrepreneurship is a man's world. The road ahead may be challenging, but it's a path worth traveling.

Together, we're turning the tides, inspiring the generations to come, and proving that not only do we belong in the world of business, but we excel in it. As a female entrepreneur, I stand shoulder to shoulder with my peers, ready to conquer new heights and redefine the narrative of what it means to be a woman in business.

Every day, we're pushing the boundaries, smashing the glass ceiling, and paving the way for future generations of female entrepreneurs. And that, my friends, is a journey worth every struggle, every challenge, and every victory.

This article has been authored by serial entrepreneur, LP Angel Investor and Assiduus Global Inc founder and CEO Dr. Somdutta Singh.