Sonal Malavia’s journey from a healthcare professional to the President of Cloud 9 Infosystems is a testament to the transformative power of ambition, adaptability, and continuous learning. With a background in healthcare and a degree in Occupational Therapy, Sonal made a strategic shift to the IT industry to seek greater flexibility, financial independence, and the opportunity to run her own business.
Transition from Healthcare to IT
Sonal’s career transition was driven by the desire for greater control over her professional and personal life. “Coming from a healthcare background and being a certified Occupational Therapist, I knew my career limitations. The IT industry, known for its potential for high profits, rapid growth, and flexibility, offered me the chance to be my own boss and pursue my vision of financial independence,” Sonal explains. Starting an IT business allowed her to set her own schedule, choose her projects, and enjoy a higher level of autonomy.
Daily Life as a President
As the President of a small IT company, Sonal’s day is a dynamic blend of strategic planning, team management, client interaction, and continuous learning. “My day typically starts with catching up on overnight emails and prioritizing responses. I check in on critical projects, hold meetings with different departments, and spend time interacting with employees to boost morale and address any concerns,” she says. Additionally, Sonal participates in industry conferences, networking events, and speaking engagements to represent Cloud 9 Infosystems and build valuable relationships.
Career Advice for Aspiring Women Leaders
Sonal offers several key pieces of advice for women aspiring to leadership roles. “Believe in yourself. Confidence is key to success in entrepreneurship or leadership positions. Educate yourself continuously and build a support network of mentors, advisors, and peers who can provide guidance and encouragement,” she advises. Sonal emphasizes the importance of stepping out of one’s comfort zone and embracing challenges. “Growth doesn’t happen in a state of comfort. By challenging ourselves and stepping into unfamiliar territories, we discover new strengths and capabilities,” she adds.
Building Inclusive Cultures and Workplace Equity
Sonal is passionate about creating inclusive and equitable workplaces. She has implemented standardized evaluation criteria that focus on objective performance metrics, ensuring that all employees are assessed based on their actual contributions and achievements. “We use inclusive language in job descriptions to attract a diverse pool of candidates and minimize biases in our recruitment processes,” she notes.
Navigating Career Transitions
Reflecting on her career transition from healthcare to IT, Sonal highlights the importance of education, networking, and personal branding. “Invest in further education, such as online courses and certifications, to enhance your skills. Building and maintaining a robust professional network is invaluable, providing support, insights, and potential opportunities. Additionally, stay updated with industry trends and developments to enhance your credibility and position as an informed leader,” she advises.
Joining WECAN
Sonal’s commitment to empowering other women in leadership positions led her to WECAN. “My deep passion for empowering other women in leadership positions brought me to WECAN. I firmly believe that supporting women in achieving their professional goals benefits individuals and enriches entire organizations and industries,” she shares. Through WECAN, Sonal leverages her experience and networks to create meaningful opportunities for women, foster inclusive leadership practices, and drive positive change in the corporate landscape.
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