Shilpi Kulshrestha is a leader who has not only shattered glass ceilings but has also paved the way for other women to follow. As the Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) at Sunil Oil and Gas Pvt Ltd, she exemplifies resilience, ambition, and the power of strategic thinking. Her journey is a testament to what women can achieve when they dare to dream big and work relentlessly toward their goals.
From Small Beginnings to a Grand Vision
Born in Rajasthan, India, Shilpi’s childhood was shaped by the diverse cultures of cities like Naseerabad, Hissar, Jamnagar, Calcutta, Shillong, and Chennai. Growing up in different regions gave her a broad perspective on life and a deep understanding of adaptability—an essential leadership skill. As a national-level tennis player, she learned discipline, perseverance, and the importance of pushing beyond limitations.
Her passion for education and transformation fueled her ambition to make a real impact. Entering a male-dominated space was challenging, but she never let societal norms define her capabilities. Instead, she turned every challenge into an opportunity, proving that a woman’s place is wherever she chooses to be.
Defining Career Moments: Leadership with a Purpose
A defining moment in Shilpi’s career was leading a rapidly scaling business vertical with 1,500 employees. She prioritized impact over authority, fostering a motivated team. For her, leadership isn’t about competing with men but standing confidently in one’s power and uplifting others while driving meaningful change.
Overcoming Barriers: Lessons for Every Woman
For Shilpi, resilience and ambition go hand in hand. She understands that setbacks are part of every journey, but how one rises after each fall defines true success. To every woman aspiring for leadership, she has a clear message: “Take up space, take risks, and never apologize for your ambition.”
She reminds women that failure is not the opposite of success; it is a stepping stone toward it. Rather than fearing challenges, she encourages women to embrace them as opportunities to grow stronger and more capable.
The Power of Mentorship: Women Supporting Women
Shilpi is dedicated to mentoring young women, especially those from non-elite educational backgrounds, empowering them to break barriers, build confidence, and lead fearlessly in supportive spaces.
Guiding Principles: Leading with Integrity and Vision
Integrity, empathy, and a long-term vision are at the core of Shilpi’s leadership. Whether making business decisions or mentoring young professionals, she remains guided by the principle that leadership should always serve a greater purpose. She understands that difficult decisions come with trade-offs, but staying aligned with one’s values ensures clarity and confidence in every step forward.
A Message to Women Aspiring for Leadership
Reflecting on her own journey, Shilpi emphasizes that success is not about having everything figured out from the start. “It’s okay to start late, to take unconventional paths, and to carve out your own journey,” she says. “Comparison is a distraction. Stay authentic, stay consistent, and you will create your own definition of success.”
She envisions a future where women do not just have a seat at the table but own the table. Her message to all women is clear: Be bold, ask the questions others hesitate to ask, and claim your space in every room you enter.
Inspiring a New Generation of Women Leaders
Shilpi Kulshrestha’s journey from a Business Development Associate at BYJU’S to Vice President over 8.5 years played a key role in scaling the company into a global edtech giant. Now, as CMO at Sunil Oil and Gas Pvt Ltd, she drives innovation and sustainable growth in the energy sector, proving that women’s leadership can transform industries.
Her story is a testament to resilience, breaking barriers, and empowering women to claim leadership roles. She inspires women to rise, lead, and uplift others—because when one woman succeeds, she paves the way for many more to follow.
Sr. Editor Indrani Banergy Entrepreneur Insights