Sakshi Choudhary
Creative Director, Ogilvy Chicago
Sakshi Choudhary, Creative Director, Ogilvy Chicago
“Growing up in India in the 1990s, ads not only became a part of pop culture, they also dictated it.” Ogilvy Creative Director Sakshi Choudhary never let go of her desire to create the dynamic content she grew up watching. Now well established in her career Sakshi’s want for gender equality is also a desire she has been able to manifest as the founder of Indian Creative Women. The expanding network is a space that nurtures women with practical and emotional support. In the present moment of black squares and hashtag “click-tivism,” the ICW also offers timely and provocative reminders to the advertising and marketing industry to go deeper than the surface with their support for women.
Describe your creative approach in three words.
Uncanny, relentless and enjoyable.
Why was it essential for you to start the Indian Creative Women?
In 2017 I participated in the Cannes Lions See It Be It Programme. I was fortunate enough to see women’s leadership close up, and was surprised by how one could tap into your vulnerabilities to lead. I realized the impact this can have on young talent. In India, there were very few women creative directors at the time. ICW become a platform to bring creative leadership from women and junior talent to one table - a space where women discussed the challenges they faced and helped each other grow.
Since founding the ICW, how has it grown?
When we started, we were a small informal group of 80 women, and now we have a network of over 500. There is a team of five highly talented women who run the network along with me. We’ve evolved into a platform focused on increasing the percentage of women creative directors in Indian advertising and design. We organise a variety of events and development sessions. Recently, we advocated for gender equality at India’s biggest award show and introduced a programme for mothers returning to work.
How would you describe your approach to creative leadership?
The best creative ideas come from a mind that is curious, ecstatic and passionate. My job is to nurture those values and ensure nothing else gets in the way.
How has being surrounded by a community of women benefited you personally?
Women have made a significant impact on my career. Being an introvert and an immigrant in the US has come with challenges. I’ve relied very heavily on the community to navigate through rough roadblocks. I’ve seen myself in the women around me and harnessed their strength as mine. There are days when I question certain decisions, but I find my power in the five women who dedicate their time and effort, beyond their work hours, to contribute to the ICW. These women inspire me deeply every day.
What excites you most about the future?
Young talent. Particularly their resolve to change things for the better. Be it at work or in society. I love their tenacity and confidence. I can’t wait to see how they shape our industry in the decades to come.
Interview by: Tega Okiti
