Lakshmi Shruti Settipalli: Leading with Purpose, Resilience, and Vision
In an era where self-made women are redefining industries and breaking barriers, Lakshmi Shruti Settipalli stands out as an inspiring leader. As the Founder of Ecoverse Inc., she is at the forefront of sustainable solutions, shaping a future where leadership is synonymous with responsibility, innovation, and impact. From excelling as an international athlete to building a successful global enterprise, her journey is a testament to resilience, ambition, and an unwavering commitment to creating meaningful change.
The Journey to Leadership
Leadership, for Lakshmi, was not an inherent trait but an evolving skill honed through perseverance and experience. The foundation of her leadership was laid early, at the age of 11, when she embarked on an ambitious journey as an international squash player. Representing her country in over 63 nations, she developed adaptability, humility, and a deep understanding of diverse cultures and perspectives. These formative years instilled in her the discipline and integrity that would later become the cornerstones of her entrepreneurial journey.
Her education at prestigious institutions like Washington, D.C., and Imperial College London further refined her leadership abilities. Working alongside Prime Ministers, Heads of State and policymakers, she navigated complex global challenges, reinforcing her ability to lead with vision and impact. As a young entrepreneur, she encountered numerous obstacles, each serving as a stepping stone toward greater achievements. Her resilience and belief in her mission propelled her forward, proving that setbacks are often setups for something greater.
Defining Moments in Leadership
Two defining moments shaped Lakshmi’s leadership. At 11, she pursued sports, defying norms and learning perseverance. At 21, she founded Ecoverse Inc. in Mayfair London, becoming one of the youngest women to do so. Though she didn’t initially see herself as a leader, her dedication to sustainability and innovation positioned her as one. She believes leadership is about authenticity, growth, and impact—not authority. Her journey proves leadership is a continuous evolution, inspiring women to break barriers and create meaningful change. Lakshmi’s story exemplifies resilience, vision, and purpose-driven success, paving the way for future women leaders.
Balancing Ambition with Resilience
The essence of Lakshmi’s leadership lies in striking a balance between ambition and resilience. Her years in sports ingrained in her the understanding that victories and setbacks are two sides of the same coin. While ambition fuels dreams, resilience ensures they are realized. She emphasizes that true success lies in the ability to maintain grace in challenges, power with humility, and ambition with self-awareness.
To women aspiring for leadership, she offers a powerful message: “Wear your ambition with pride, but let resilience be your armor. Leadership is not merely a responsibility—it is a privilege to shape the future and leave a legacy that transcends time.”
The Role of Mentorship
Lakshmi’s success stems from mentorship by influential global leaders, reinforcing her belief that leadership is about uplifting others. Women shaped her journey, from sports to entrepreneurship. She values the most the support she received from encouraging women within entrepreneur organisations across the world like UKES. Committed to paying it forward, she champions girls’ education and empowers rural female entrepreneurs, ensuring they reach their fullest potential.
Guiding Principles for Decision-Making
For Lakshmi, tough decisions are guided by integrity, intuition, and purpose. She believes that true leadership is tested in challenging times, where circumstances may shift, but core values remain constant. “As women, our instincts are one of our greatest strengths. When we lead with conviction and stay anchored in our values, every decision aligns with a greater vision,” she asserts.
A Message for Aspiring Women Leaders
Lakshmi Shruti Settipalli believes success requires patience and persistence, but true fulfillment comes from joy, connections, and impact. She envisions a future where women redefine leadership with empathy and strength. “Progress isn’t about waiting for change; it’s about creating it,” she says. Through Ecoverse Inc., she continues to inspire and uplift future women leaders. Fearless and purpose-driven, Lakshmi’s journey exemplifies the power of resilience and vision in shaping a better world. She says “The best is yet to come.”