Meet Vaishali Sanghavi

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Vaishali Sanghavi. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Vaishali below.

Vaishali , we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.
Every day has been another challenging day in my journey as an animal activist. The path I’ve chosen is fraught with obstacles, from the relentless trolls and negative comments to the lack of appreciation, both from my family and society. It feels like I’m navigating a turbulent sea, facing financial shortages, and juggling the demands of a job that’s worlds apart from my true passion for animals. In moments of doubt, I often reflect on how I found my purpose. It wasn’t a single revelation or a grand epiphany; rather, it was a gradual process of self-discovery. I realised that my love for animals, my deep-seated empathy for their suffering, and my unwavering commitment to making a difference were the guiding lights leading me towards my true calling.
The journey began with an innate connection to the plight of animals, a desire to speak up for those who couldn’t speak for themselves. As I immersed myself in the world of animal activism, I faced adversity and ridicule. People laughed, trolls jeered, and negative comments flooded my space. But in the midst of this chaos, I discovered resilience within me that I never knew existed.
My purpose became clear as I witnessed the impact of my actions on the lives of the voiceless beings I was advocating for. Every rescued animal, every positive change in legislation, and every small victory in the face of adversity fuelled my determination to continue this fight.
Yes, there were times when financial shortages loomed large, and the pressures of a different job threatened to pull me away from my passion. But I learned to deal with the challenges, to find creative ways to balance both worlds. It was in those moments of struggle that I realised the depth of my commitment and the unyielding nature of my purpose.
In the absence of external validation, I found solace in the knowledge that my work was making a difference, no matter how small. The purpose I discovered wasn’t about applause or recognition; it was about creating a world where animals could live without fear, pain, or suffering.
So, as I face another day filled with challenges, I draw strength from the journey that led me to my purpose. I stand firm, knowing that every step I take in defense of animals brings me closer to a world where compassion triumphs over cruelty. And in that pursuit, I find my truest self, my most profound purpose.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
Certainly! As a seasoned HR professional with 18 years of diverse experience spanning both small and large industries, I’ve had the privilege of working in a variety of settings, from corporate environments to factory settings. Over the years, my role has evolved, allowing me to gain valuable insights into the intricacies of human resources management in different organisational landscapes. In my career journey, I’ve successfully navigated the challenges and opportunities presented by the dynamic nature of the business world. Working in various capacities, I’ve honed my skills in talent acquisition, employee relations, performance management, and organisational development. Whether it’s identifying top talent to drive business growth or mitigating workplace conflicts to foster a positive work culture, my focus has always been on aligning HR strategies with overall business objectives.
One of the key aspects of my role has been adapting to the unique needs of each organisation. In smaller companies, I’ve played a hands-on role, wearing multiple hats to address HR needs comprehensively. On the other hand, in larger corporations, I’ve had the chance to contribute strategically, collaborating with leadership to implement policies and initiatives that scale with the organisation’s growth.
My experience has also provided me with a deep understanding of the importance of employee engagement and development. I’ve been involved in designing and implementing training programs, mentoring initiatives, and performance appraisal systems that not only enhance individual capabilities but also contribute to the overall success of the organisation.
In factory environments, I’ve navigated the specific challenges associated with managing a diverse workforce engaged in manual labor. From ensuring compliance with safety regulations to fostering a culture of teamwork and productivity, I’ve been committed to creating environments where employees feel valued and motivated.
In the ever-evolving field of HR, staying updated with industry trends and legal requirements has been a constant priority. I’ve been proactive in leveraging technology to streamline HR processes, from recruitment to payroll, to enhance efficiency and accuracy.
Throughout my career, I’ve learned that effective HR management goes beyond policies and procedures—it’s about understanding the unique dynamics of each organisation and its people. I take pride in my ability to build strong relationships, communicate effectively, and contribute to the success and well-being of both the employees and the organisation as a whole.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Reflecting on my 18-year journey in the HR profession, I identify three key qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that have been most impact:

1.Adaptability and Flexibility:

The ability to adapt to different organisational cultures, industries, and roles has been crucial. The HR landscape is dynamic, and being flexible has allowed me to navigate various challenges and seize opportunities effectively.

Advice:

Embrace change and seek out diverse experiences. Take on projects outside your comfort zone, work in different sectors if possible, and be open to learning from unexpected sources. This adaptability will not only make you a more well-rounded professional but also position you as someone who can thrive in any HR environment.

2.Effective Communication and Relationship Building:

Communication is at the core of HR, whether it’s conveying policies, mediating conflicts, or collaborating with leadership. Building strong relationships with employees, managers, and stakeholders has been essential for success.

Advice:

Your communication skills in various forms—written, verbal, and non-verbal. Actively listen to understand others’ perspectives and build rapport. Networking both within and outside the organisation is key. Attend industry events, engage on professional platforms, and cultivate a network of mentors and peers. Strong relationships can open doors, provide support, and contribute to your professional growth.

3.Continuous Learning and Keeping Abreast of Trends:

Staying updated on HR trends, legal changes, and emerging technologies has been vital. The HR field evolves, and a commitment to ongoing learning has empowered me to introduce innovative solutions and stay ahead of industry developments.

Advice:

Develop a habit of continuous learning. Attend workshops, webinars, and conferences. Pursue relevant certifications and stay informed about industry publications. Join professional HR associations to access resources and networking opportunities. Embrace new technologies that can enhance HR processes. The more you invest in your knowledge base, the more valuable you become to your organization.

Advice for Early Career Professionals:

1. Embrace Every Opportunity:

Seize opportunities to take on diverse projects and roles. The more varied your experiences, the better
equipped you’ll be to handle different challenges in the future.

2. Prioritise Relationship Building:

Cultivate strong relationships within your organization and industry. Networking isn’t just about finding a new
job; it’s about learning, sharing insights, and building a supportive professional community.

3. Commit to Lifelong Learning:

Recognise that learning doesn’t stop with a degree or a few years of experience. Stay curious, be proactive
in seeking out knowledge, and stay abreast of industry trends to remain a valuable asset in your field.
By embodying adaptability, effective communication, and a commitment to continuous learning, you’ll not
only enhance your current role but also set a solid foundation for a successful and fulfilling career in HR.

Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
Absolutely! I am actively seeking passionate individuals who share my deep love for animals and are eager to collaborate on meaningful projects or initiatives. Whether you are an animal rights advocate, a wildlife enthusiast, or someone dedicated to improving the well-being of our furry, feathered, or finned friends, I would love to connect with you.

If you find yourself as passionate about animals as I am and are interested in joining forces, let’s make a difference together. Here are a few ways you can connect with me:

1.Social Media Engagement: Follow me on social media to stay updated on my latest endeavours and share your own experiences, insights, or ideas related to animal welfare. Feel free to comment on posts, share your favourite animal stories, or simply express your passion for our fellow beings.

• Instagram: @vaishali3003/ leosrescue

• Twitter: @vaishalis30

• Facebook: @Happy Leo’s Rescue Foundation

2. Direct Collaboration: If you have a specific project or initiative in mind, or if you’d like to brainstorm ideas for
a collaborative effort, please reach out to me directly. I am open to exploring partnerships that align with
our shared commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of animals.
• Email: [email protected] /[email protected]

Contact Info:

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