'Committed to championing child protection, ethical communications & global partnerships'

e4m PR & Corp Comm 40 Under 40 Awards 2024 celebrate the trailblazers, future leaders, and entrepreneurs under the age of 40 who are redefining brand stories, building trust, and driving strategic communications across industries.

In this feature, we have Paroma Bhattacharya, Associate Director, India for Children and the proud recipient of the 6^th edition of e4m PR & Corp Comm 40 under 40 awards 2024. Paroma is a results-oriented professional recognised for her innovative solutions, impactful campaigns, and ability to foster cross-functional collaboration and stakeholder engagement across both corporate and government sectors. She currently leads communications for a network of over 250 NGOs focused on child protection.

Bhattarcharya expresses what the 40 under 40 recognition means to her, the remarkable moments that shaped her journey, a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the mindset, values, and strategies that define success in today's communications industry, and the personal and professional lessons that helped her thrive.

Excerpts:

How do you feel about being part of this renowned list of 40 Under 40 leaders?

Being recognised among the 40 Under 40 leaders is both humbling and affirming. It marks a significant milestone in a journey that began with a deep desire to use strategic communication as a force for social change. When I made the switch from journalism to communications, many advised against it. But this recognition proves that conviction, hard work, and purpose-driven action can rewrite your story. It motivates me to continue amplifying voices that are too often unheard, especially those of children.

What are the top 3 skills you believe are essential in today’s professional landscape? 

Strategic Thinking: In a dynamic and fast-evolving world, the ability to anticipate change, align with emerging trends, and stay mission-focused is indispensable. 

Cross-Cultural Communication: With increasingly global collaborations, being able to engage with diverse stakeholders—ranging from grassroots movements to policymakers—is vital. 

Purpose-Driven Clarity: Inspired by my mentor, Child Rights Activist Bhuwan Ribhu ji, I’ve come to believe that every professional must identify their core virtue. He introduced me to the world of justice, and I’ve learned that knowing your “why” is as crucial as knowing your “how.” 

What emerging trends or technologies do you believe will shape your industry in the next 5–10 years?

The next decade will see AI and ethical storytelling converge in powerful ways, enabling deeper engagement and more tailored content strategies. Immersive media will reshape how the public experiences campaigns, while data-informed narratives will drive precision and impact. Yet, amid all this innovation, I believe the most influential trend will be a renewed emphasis on authentic storytelling—stories that inspire, connect, and drive policy-level change. We’ll also see more digital dialogue and fewer physical forums, with verbal summits shaping the global discourse.

How do you define leadership in the modern workplace? 

Modern leadership is rooted in service and inclusion. It’s about creating spaces where innovation thrives, where collaboration is celebrated, and where everyone, from junior associates to top-level stakeholders, feels seen and heard. For me, leadership has always meant building trust, leading with empathy, and using that foundation to catalyse sustainable change—whether in media, advocacy, or global diplomacy.

What are your future plans? What’s one lesson you want to pass on to young professionals? 

I remain committed to championing child protection, ethical communications, and global partnerships that center human dignity and justice. My focus will continue to be on thought leadership, strategic alliances, and storytelling that drives change.

If there’s one message I’d share with young professionals, it’s this: Let your values anchor you, but let your courage lead the way. Purpose should shape your path more than prestige ever could.