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Neha Shrimali, Corporate Professional Turned POSH Consultant, Advocating Against Sexual Harassment of Women in the Workplace

jaipur

Be strong and independent, and live your life with dignity and respect.
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Be strong and independent, and live your life with dignity and respect.
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After working in the banking sector for a decade, Neha decided to become a trainer and has been working as a PoSH consultant and trainer. She has received awards from the HR Association of India (HRAI) and the Ministry of Defense for her exceptional work.

Neha Shrimali has been working as a PoSH (Prevention of Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act 2013) consultant to several corporate companies.

Having been part of the corporate sector, she observed numerous challenges that women encounter while working in the industry. One of the primary challenge is sexual harassment, which significantly impedes their career progression. Often, women are compelled to leave their jobs and are unable to return due to the trauma associated with such experiences. Her aim is to assist these affected women.

When she came to know about PoSH, she, as a trainer, became intrigued to learn more about it. Recognizing that it aligns with her goal of aiding women, she pursued the PoSH certification and started discussing it with clients. By amalgamating her passion, profession and purpose, she finds fulfilment in her work.

Originally from Bikaner, she completed her schooling at Sophia School, Bikaner. Subsequently, she and her family relocated to Jaipur in 2000, where she pursued further education. She obtained her undergraduate degree in Statistics, Economics and Computer Science.She then pursued a master's degree in English Literature and a Post Graduate Diploma in Computer Science Application (PGDCA), followed by an MBA in Marketing.

Reflecting on her childhood, Neha fondly recalls playing teacher with her brother, who would play the role of her student. She believes it was her innate calling to become a trainer, a realisation she had early on. Growing up in a joint family, she received love and nurturing from every family member.

Talking about her role models, Neha emphasises that every woman who fights for her rights serves as her inspiration. She advocates against tolerating any form of toxicity and encourages individuals to have the courage to stand up for what is right. She draws inspiration from Bhanwari Devi, who bravely fought for her rights; her efforts led to the framing of the Vishakha Guidelines, aimed at safeguarding women in the workplace.

Neha finds inspiration in a quote her father used to share with her: "Khudi ko kar buland itna ki har taqdeer se pehle, khuda bande se poochhe bata teri raza kya hai" (Strengthen yourself to such an extent that before every fate, God himself asks what your will is). She feels fortunate to have unwavering support from her family throughout her journey.

Discussing her challenges, Neha reveals that she married at 21 and faced an abusive marriage. Her parents intervened, enabling her to break free from that situation, pursue further education, and rebuild her life. She is also the mother of a son who is currently in his first year of engineering. Professionally, she encounters resistance from many in understanding the significance of the PoSH Act, particularly in the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector.

Explaining the PoSH Act, she emphasises that it mandates any employer with more than 10 employees, regardless of the gender composition, to establish an Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) to ensure a safe working environment. Many MSME owners remain unaware of this law or fail to comply with it for various reasons.

Acknowledging her achievements, she cites lifelong learning as her most significant accomplishment. Additionally, she has received an award from the HR Association of India (HRAI) and recognition from the Ministry of Defence, where she conducted some successful sessions. She has also been invited as a guest speaker on PoSH topics and takes pride in her ability to help and inspire other women.

Neha urges business owners to implement the PoSH law in their organisations to protect their female workforce. She also encourages women to familiarise themselves with the law and raise awareness among others. However, she cautions against misusing the law for personal motives. Neha calls on the government to address gaps in implementation, particularly in the MSME sector, to make the law more effective.

Addressing the youth of the country, she advises them to be sensible and mature, and to strive for self-dependence.

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Watch the Inspiring Story of Neha Shrimali | PoSH Consultant

Discover Neha Shrimali's journey empowering women in the workplace, advocating for the implementation of the PoSH Act, and inspiring change. Know more about her challenges and message for fellow women.