BY J.M.LEE
Prachi Jatania is an award-winning journalist from India. She has covered breaking news for a decade and worked in print, digital, and television news before pivoting to corporate and social impact storytelling. With twenty years of experience, she’s currently leading Communications at Simon Fraser University-incubated, Kids Brain Health Network. Working across different industries, she has retained her journalistic approach to storytelling.
“The trailblazing journeys of many women who questioned the status quo and who made a mark in male-dominated industries, the ones around me were breaking barriers and challenging patriarchal traditions,” she explains. “They paved the way for future generations of women to succeed and have their voices heard. They showed that anything is possible when we work together to break the barriers that limit us. Their accomplishments inspire women today and give us the courage to challenge the status quo.”
As a young adult with a nose for news and a deep interest in telling people’s stories, she was an avid follower of the legendary Oprah Winfrey. Oprah’s interviewing style and compassionate approach to engaging people left a deep impression on Prachi.
“My political science professor’s empathetic and inspiring teaching style also influenced me, which nurtured a strong interest in public policy and civic discourse.”
The lessons Prachi can share are persistence, passion, and finding mentors.
“A stand-out experience as a journalist has been reporting live on the November 26 Mumbai terror siege for 60 hours non-stop under intense circumstances.”
Her most vulnerable moment was becoming a mother. “It transformed me, especially navigating postpartum depression and the uncertainty of balancing motherhood with a career. These experiences fundamentally altered my character, decisions, and values. When I was at the peak of my career, getting opportunities to host television shows, I took a break from work, moved to the UK to study, and eventually gained a global canvas to leverage. This experience taught me the importance of taking risks and opening doors to new opportunities. It also showed me that I could do anything I set my mind to. I am forever grateful for that journey and how it shaped me into who I am today.”
“The power of mentorship has helped my career journey,” she explains. “Mentoring and being mentored have provided me with many opportunities for personal and professional growth. When I think about my biggest inspiration, it certainly comes from my parents, family, and many everyday heroes in my circles. These heroes are passionate about advancing the good for each other, the community, and business. Surrounding myself with exceptional people motivates me to do better. I’m also thankful to the many women of the Immigrant Women Initiative (IWI) community. These individuals serve as an inspiration with their resolve and perseverance as they navigate many barriers in their personal and professional lives; choosing a learning mindset to tackle challenges.
Through mentorship and the support of mentors and mentees, she has unlocked countless opportunities and developed a successful career journey. She’s so grateful for all her experiences and the relationships she has built, which inspire her to continue learning and growing. She is eager to give back and help others.
“Navigating the path to leadership requires a blend of determination, strategic self-advocacy, and the cultivation of robust networks while staying true to your values. Prachi believes that, “by creating an environment that is welcoming, authentic, and safe, where everyone is seen and heard, it is increasingly important that your team knows it is okay to make mistakes and have imperfections. This applies to everyone on the team as well. Leaders should be role models and advocate for their team and for diversity. They should also create an environment of trust and respect that encourages everyone to take risks and be their best selves.
Finally, leaders should foster an environment of learning and development that allows everyone to grow and reach their full potential.”
