Banking News – International Women’s Day, celebrated since 1911, aims to inspire and encourage women worldwide, advocating for freedom from discrimination, outdated societal norms, and inequality. This day also emphasizes the need to highlight women’s contributions, struggles, and successes in all fields. Women’s participation in various sectors has steadily increased compared to the past, with a significant rise in their presence as leaders and role models.

One such example is Poonam Gyawali Shrestha, who has been serving in the Insurance Authority of Nepal for over two decades. Born and raised in Kathmandu, Gyawali was a quiet and reserved child. She earned her Master’s degree in Economics and Public Administration and was always a good student. She comes from a family with her father, mother, an older sister, and two younger brothers.

Her Father’s Dream: Becoming a Lawyer

Like many parents, Gyawali’s father had high hopes for her future and dreamed of her becoming a lawyer, a profession that was once considered prestigious alongside medicine and engineering. However, Gyawali did not share the same dream. “My father wanted me to become a lawyer. At that time, being a doctor, engineer, or lawyer was quite fashionable,” she shared in an interview with Banking News. “But I never thought I would become one.”

Before entering the Insurance Authority, Gyawali worked for a few months at the Disability Federation of Nepal, where she realized her passion for working in organizations focused on social causes.

Two Decades in the Regulatory Sector

Gyawali currently serves as the Deputy Director and Joint Spokesperson at the Nepal Insurance Authority, with 18 years of experience. Her role has significantly contributed to the growth of the insurance sector in Nepal. “The insurance market is fascinating. It’s a technical field, and with constant innovations in insurance products and practices, I have had numerous opportunities to learn new things,” she said.

She recalls how her career path in the insurance sector has helped her navigate life with ease. Gyawali first applied for a position in the Insurance Board in 2055 BS (1998), but was not selected. In 2062 BS (2005), she successfully applied for a position as an Assistant First and joined the Insurance Authority in 2063 BS (2006), starting her career there as an Assistant First and later advancing to the position of Deputy Director.

The Challenges of Balancing Home and Office for Women

“Every job comes with its own challenges,” Gyawali shared, recalling the challenges she faced as a woman in a male-dominated industry. “There are very few women in leadership roles in the insurance sector. Women’s leadership is often questioned in any field, but we need to understand and tackle these challenges head-on,” she explained.

Gyawali believes that focusing on the differences between men and women can hold individuals back. However, she feels that in her office, women are treated equally to men and have access to the same opportunities, which helps her focus on her work without facing gender-based barriers.

Despite this, she acknowledges the challenges women face in balancing both home and work life. She credits her husband’s full support in making her professional life easier, as she did not have extended family members, such as in-laws, around to help.

Outside of office hours, she enjoys spending time with her family, listening to motivational videos, and indulging in classic music.

Self-Confidence: The First Step to Success

Gyawali firmly believes that self-confidence is the first step to success. “When women start working, they need to have confidence in themselves,” she emphasized. “Many women fear failure or challenges before they even begin. The first thing they need is self-confidence.”

She also advises against being influenced by others’ negative opinions and says that doing so erodes self-confidence. “Women must persevere, never give up, and continue to work hard,” she urged.

(This article is part of Banking News’ weeklong special series for International Women’s Day (March 8 / Falgun 24), highlighting women in leadership roles in the banking and insurance sectors.)