Smita Anand advocates Embracing Equity in Manufacturing Sector

Smita Anand, the Director of Evertrade Group, is a strong advocate for gender equality and inclusivity in the workplace. As one of the heads of Evertrade's facility in Xiamen, China, Smita has taken many initiatives to ensure that the needs of women in the workforce are met and that the company maintains a balanced workforce. According to Smita, the majority of the workforce at the Xiamen facility is women, and while this may seem like a positive development for gender equality, she recognizes the importance of including men in the workforce as well. "Inclusivity is very important to keep the balance in the business," she says.

Smita's commitment to gender equality is rooted in her own personal background. Born in Darbhanga, Bihar, Smita was brought up in different cities in India and post-graduated in Chemistry from Lalit Narayan Mithila University. She has been a pillar of Evertrade's growth since its founding in 2011 by her husband, Niren Anand, who is a technical footwear designer from India. Under Smita's leadership, Evertrade has positioned itself as a trusted supplier for reputed brands across the globe, thanks to its commitment to high-quality footwear and on-time delivery. Smita attributes much of the company's success to its self-driven and self-motivated workforce, which she believes naturally includes many women.

To ensure that women in the workforce are treated fairly and their needs are met, Smita has taken many initiatives to develop the necessary infrastructure. She has worked to create a safe and welcoming environment for women, which includes providing special accommodations and support for women with children. Smita's commitment to gender equality and inclusivity in the workplace is in line with the theme of International Women's Day 2023, which is "Embracing Equity." The theme aims to promote gender equality and inclusivity in all areas of society, including the workplace.

Smita and Niren Anand have been on a mission to empower women in rural India by providing them with job opportunities and training. It all began when the couple got the opportunity to interact with Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the BRICS meeting held in China in 2017. This inspired them to invest in India and make the dream of Make in India a reality. Evertrade India's facility is almost operational, located near Bhubaneshwar, Odisha. However, the challenge they face is getting women from rural areas to work in the facility. While their intentions are good, it is not easy to achieve. Financial independence and building a career are new concepts for many women in rural India.

To address this challenge, Smita and Niren, along with NGOs, UN agencies, and the Government of Odisha, is building programs to train women and bring them into the workforce. She believes that providing job opportunities to women can help rural families have a sustainable income, which will improve the economy and social life around the facility. Smita also believes that Indian families should trust and empower women, as they worship goddesses at their homes. This mindset shift can help women become financially independent and build successful careers.

Smita Anand apart from making her mark in the business is also a community leader and cultural ambassador. She has spent the better part of her life building bridges between India and China, promoting Indian culture and traditions, and making significant contributions to her community. Her dedication to her work and passion for her country is a testament to her leadership qualities. As an ambassador of Indian culture, Smita has played a pivotal role in promoting Indian festivals, art, and traditions in China. She has organized various events to showcase the rich cultural heritage of India, bringing together the Indian and local communities. Through her efforts, she has helped to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of Indian culture in China.

Smita's contributions go beyond promoting Indian culture. She is also actively involved in community programs and has been recognized for her efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her generosity and selflessness have helped many people in need, making a positive impact on the lives of those around her. Apart from her community work, Smita is also a successful businesswoman. She is the founder of Evertrade, a company that has been associated with promoting sports in India. Evertrade has sponsored shoes for the National Cricket team, and through its brand, EVER, it has helped to bring quality footwear to the masses. Smita's dedication to her business and her community is truly inspiring.

As a mother of two, Smita knows the importance of ensuring her children stay connected to their Indian roots. She has made sure that her children are exposed to Indian culture and traditions, which she believes will play a significant role in their future lives. For Smita, managing multiple responsibilities comes naturally, and she believes that it is a strength that women possess. She is a firm believer that the future of India and its manufacturing sector lies in attracting more women talent. By empowering women and giving them opportunities, India can reach new heights of success.

Smita Anand is a cultural ambassador who has made significant contributions to her community and her country. Her passion for Indian culture and traditions, dedication to her business, and commitment to her community is an inspiration to all. She has truly bridged the cultural gap between India and China, and her legacy will continue to inspire future generations. Through her efforts, Smita Anand is championing women's empowerment and making a positive impact in the lives of many rural women in India. Her vision of making Evertrade India's facility a hub for women's employment and training is slowly becoming a reality. With the right support and training, these women can not only become financially independent but also inspire future generations to dream big and achieve their goals.

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