Though International Women’s Day is behind us, we are continuing to spotlight voices from across the industry as part of our IWD Voices series, with leaders sharing their journeys, experiences, insights, and the lessons that have shaped them.
Next up, we speak with Neha Chandok, Founder of EiferStudio.
In our conversation, Neha reflects on what this year’s IWD theme means to her and what first drew her to architecture and design. She also touches on how her understanding of fairness has evolved with experience and seniority.
She also discusses the responsibility senior leaders have in shaping equitable workplaces, and the change she hopes to see for the next generation of women.
The theme for International Women’s Day 2026 is “Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls.” What does this mean to you professionally and personally?
For me this theme highlights the importance of building systems that truly support equality. In professional spaces like architecture and design, rights should be reflected in real opportunities, fair recognition and safe working environments. Justice is not only about policy but about everyday decisions that shape careers.
The phrase for all feels especially meaningful. Progress should reach women across roles, backgrounds and stages of life. Personally it reminds me to use my position to encourage access, mentorship and growth for others.
What first drew you to your industry, and was there a defining moment that set your career in motion? Was there a role model who influenced you early on?
I have always been drawn to spaces and how they influence human behaviour. From a young age I was curious about how thoughtful design could change the way people live, work and connect. Architecture felt like a field where creativity meets purpose.
A defining moment was when I began understanding the strategic side of design. It is not only about aesthetics but also about solving real problems. Over time I have been inspired by many women professionals who led with clarity, strong thinking and quiet confidence.
How has your understanding of fairness changed as you’ve gained experience and seniority?
Early in my career I believed fairness meant treating everyone the same. With experience I realised fairness often means recognising different challenges people face. True fairness requires intention and action. It means creating support systems that allow talent to grow.
As conversations around women and work have evolved, what do you think has genuinely improved—and where do you think more attention and action are still needed?
There is definitely more visibility of women in leadership and more open conversations about flexibility and inclusion. This has helped create awareness and confidence.
However, representation in decision making roles still needs improvement. We also need to address unconscious bias and ensure that ambition in women is supported rather than questioned.
Is there a project or initiative you’ve worked on related to women’s empowerment that you’re particularly proud of? What made it meaningful to you?
One meaningful approach has been encouraging young women in our teams to take ownership early in their careers. When individuals are trusted with responsibility they gain confidence and develop leadership skills. Empowerment is not only about presence but about participation in important decisions.
Leaders shape culture through everyday actions. Decisions around hiring growth recognition and credit have a lasting impact.
What responsibility do senior leaders have in shaping more equitable workplaces, beyond statements or policies?
Leaders shape culture through everyday actions. Decisions around hiring growth recognition and credit have a lasting impact. It is important for leaders to actively support ambition and challenge limiting assumptions. Consistency matters more than intent.
What is one change you would like to see in workplaces for the next generation of women?
I would like to see ambition in women being accepted as natural. When workplaces value capability without attaching labels it allows individuals to focus fully on contribution and growth.
Quick Hits
A trend you are excited about
Women building digital led businesses and creating independent intellectual property.
A trend you are not excited about
Symbolic activism that is not supported by long term structural change.
A piece of advice that stayed with you longer than expected
Real progress begins when opportunity becomes a shared foundation, not a selective privilege.
