Yesha Sharad Brahmbhatt
Associate Director – People India, Contentstack
📍Mumbai, India
What qualities do you think leaders need to have in today’s world?
Today’s leaders need a balance of clarity, courage, and empathy. Clarity to set direction and expectations in an increasingly complex world. Courage to make difficult decisions and have honest conversations when things are not working. And empathy to understand that people bring their whole selves to work.
Leadership today is not about having all the answers. It is about creating an environment where people feel safe to ask questions, challenge ideas, and grow. The leaders who will make the greatest impact are those who can combine strong business thinking with genuine care for people.
If you had to describe your leadership style in one word, what would it be and why?
Authentic. I believe leadership should be steady and authentic rather than performative. I try to stay grounded in fairness, transparency, and listening to people. When teams feel that decisions are thoughtful and consistent, it builds trust. And trust is the foundation of any strong culture.
How does your company’s Pledge 1% program help shape the kind of workplace culture you believe in?
Programs like Pledge 1% reinforce the idea that companies are not just economic entities but members of a broader community. When organizations commit time, resources, or expertise to social causes, it reminds employees that their work can contribute to something larger than quarterly results. It creates pride, purpose, and a shared sense of responsibility. Most importantly, it shows that our company values are truly lived and not just words on paper. For me, culture is strongest when people see that their workplace cares about both performance and impact.
This year marks the 7th year of Pledge 1%’s #WomenWhoLead campaign. How can companies champion and support female leadership?
Supporting female leadership goes beyond representation. It requires intentional action. Companies need to create environments where women have access to meaningful opportunities, visible leadership roles, and sponsors who advocate for their growth. It is also important to normalize different leadership styles and ensure that performance is evaluated fairly.
Most importantly, organizations must build cultures where women feel confident speaking up, taking risks, and shaping decisions. When women lead authentically, organizations benefit from broader perspectives and stronger teams.
If you could write a note to your younger self on her first day of work, what would it say?
Trust yourself earlier. Your voice and your perspective matter more than you realize. And be kind to yourself along the way. Careers are long journeys, and growth rarely happens without a few uncertain steps. Also, take the time to build genuine relationships with people along the way. Careers are shaped not just by the work we do, but by the trust and respect we build with others.
