My GHCI 2025 Experience — A Week That Shifted Something in Me

Before I dive into this year’s experience, I have to go back for a moment.

Last year was the first time I attended GHCI, and honestly, it changed a lot for me. I walked in curious… and walked out inspired, connected, and so energized that I kept thinking about it for weeks. I met some incredible women, many of whom stayed in touch and became part of my journey. So yes, this year, I was eager to attend again.

But life doesn’t always follow the plan.

I wasn’t prepared this time. I didn’t have a pass. And I’d almost convinced myself to skip it completely.

And then like it always happens when you just put yourself out their help found its way.

A huge thank you to Neeraja Ganesh ma’am for guiding me, supporting me, and recommending me for the Her Second Innings scholarship. One gesture changed everything and brought me back to the biggest celebration of women in tech in India. I genuinely couldn’t be more grateful.

Thanks to Revathi Rukmangathan, Manjula Dharmalingam and Soorya MD from Her Second Innings.

Her Second Innings

For Anyone Wondering, What GHCI Is All About

Grace Hopper Celebration India (GHCI) is Asia’s largest gathering of women and allies in technology, a space filled with inspiration, learning, and possibilities.

Now in its 13th edition, this flagship event by AnitaB.org India brings together thousands of tech professionals for:

• inspiring keynotes
• learning-packed workshops
• mentorship opportunities
• career and networking sessions
• discussions that push you to think bigger

This year’s theme, Unbound, was all about breaking barriers and imagining what’s possible beyond limits, whether you’re just starting your journey or leading from the front.

Unbound GHCI

And honestly? You can feel that energy in every corner of GHCI.

Walking into GHCI again felt different this time. It felt familiar, warm, almost like returning to a community I belonged to.

From hallway conversations to lunch-queue chats that turned into unexpected friendships, every interaction felt meaningful. It’s one of those events where even small moments like a smile exchanged during a session can spark new ideas or connections.

A good picture

I got the chance to meet Sneha Ganesh , who is genuinely so warm and friendly. It was wonderful running into familiar faces from GHCI last year Anshika Mishra and Barash sharma and it honestly felt so good catching up again. And meeting my old friend Swetha Cadambi was a lovely surprise.

GHCI 25

GHCI isn’t just about sessions and panels, it’s about the people, stories, and relationships you build along the way. GHCI is not just an event for me anymore it’s becoming a milestone in my journey every year. A reminder of how far I’ve come and how far I still want to go. A space where I meet people who make me think bigger, dream wider, and stay hungry for growth.

I also had the chance to listen to Shreya Krishnan (the Managing Director of AnitaB.org India), whose energy honestly fills the whole room. The way she speaks, leads, and shows up for the community is so inspiring, you instantly understand why GHCI feels so powerful and well-held.

Super grateful for another beautiful year at GHCI. Can’t wait to take these learnings forward and show up even stronger next time.

Thank You!