BY J.M. LEE
Arshita’s leadership journey combines passion and dedication. When she arrived in Canada from India at 17, she traded a medical college acceptance for a vibrant entrepreneurial spirit. She started at Glutenull as an entry-level employee. “I immersed myself in Sales, Marketing, Shipping, Quality Assurance, and AR-AP, getting a comprehensive understanding of the business. It proved invaluable as I eventually transitioned into the CEO role,” she said matter-of-factly. She secured national partnerships with major retailers like Sobeys, Safeway, and Loblaws during her seven-year tenure at Glutenull, providing high-quality, allergen-friendly products to people with dietary restrictions—diabetics, celiacs, and food sensitivities.
“My previous healthcare experience reinforced this,” Arshita says. “As an intern at Fraser Health, I worked on initiatives such as ‘Your Health Information Prescription.’ Together, these experiences have shaped my approach to leadership: one that prioritizes impact, wellness, and an understanding of the people we serve.”
As a woman leader, she learned the importance of courage, adaptability, and taking initiative, not just for herself, but also for others. “I’ve also learned to take a job even if I don’t see all my future. When I started at Glutenull as a packager, I never imagined becoming its CEO. However, I always sought ways to improve processes and add value to everything I did. Whatever I do, I do it with passion and purpose.”
Arshita’s parents are her biggest inspirations; their hard work and dedication have shaped her. “My mother, a doctor and IVF counselor, specializing in women’s reproductive health, has promoted wellness throughout her career,” she says with pride. “Her selfless dedication to her patients inspires me.”
In her professional career, Arshita is grateful for the mentorship of Otari from Glutenull and Debbie Ram-ditta at Fraser Health, whose support helped develop Arshita’s shared leadership skills. Compassion-driven leadership empowers her to think innovatively.
One of the most vulnerable moments of her career was stepping into the CEO role at Glutenull. “As a young, immigrant woman in a male-dominated industry, I faced skepticism and had to prove myself through action,” she reminisces. “I quickly learned consistency, credibility, innovation, and results earn respect and influence.”
The most significant risk she had undertaken was expanding Glutenull into the U.S. market, despite the current risk of losing it all due to tariffs and regulatory hurdles. “It requires building new partnerships, navigating compliance challenges, and introducing our products to new audiences.”
When mentoring, she looks for driven, curious, and open-minded individuals. “I value mentees willing to take initiative, challenge norms, and seek feedback.”
As a mentor, Arshita strives to create opportunities and break down barriers for women from underrepresented backgrounds. We are a 95% female-led team at Glutenull. By fostering a collaborative and empowering environment, I prioritize transparency, clear communication, and shared goals.”
She leads by example when working with her team on product launches or brainstorming solutions. “By being approachable and solutions-focused, I set a collaborative tone that motivates my team to strive for excellence and take ownership of their roles.”
Balancing work and life requires intentionality. Arshita starts her mornings with yoga, stretching exercises, and prayers to support her mental health, grounding her for the day ahead. She also enjoys treating herself to a latte—a small ritual that makes her feel special. “Juggling my role as CEO of Glutenull with evening courses at SFU is demanding, but I believe in lifelong learning and the sense of fulfillment it brings. Be bold. Take risks and seize opportunities, even if they seem daunting. Embrace continuous learning. Build a diverse skill set—it will make you adaptable and valuable. Build meaningful connections. Surround yourself with mentors and peers who uplift and challenge you. And most of all, stay authentic. Your unique experiences and voice are your strengths—own them,” she advises.
Inclusion is about creating equal opportunities and amplifying diverse voices. As a woman from an underrepresented community, Arshita is committed to fostering spaces where individuals feel empowered to contribute and thrive. “What I appreciate now more than ever is how deeply my mom invested in my growth. She didn’t just help with schoolwork—she taught, prepared me for exams, and created mock tests to sharpen my skills beyond the syllabus.”
Looking back, Arshita realizes her mother taught her more than academics. “My mother instilled in me the habit of being prepared for life and approaching it confidently and positively. Thanks to her, I’ve learned to do my homework before stepping into any room—whether for a meeting or a new challenge—knowing I am ready, capable, and optimistic.”
