As the country celebrates International Women’s Day, discussions around women’s progress are becoming more meaningful than ever. Across India, women are steadily building careers, launching businesses, and shaping industries with confidence. However, the journey is not the same for everyone. For many women in Tier-2 cities and smaller towns, the road to professional independence still comes with unique social and structural challenges.
In this conversation, Richa Agarwal, Founder and Beauty Expert at the Cleopatra Spa & Salon Chain, speaks about the determination of women from smaller cities and how skill development is helping them build strong and sustainable careers. She also serves as a GC Member with the Beauty & Wellness Sector Skill Council under the National Skill Development Corporation, is the Chief Mentor for Beauty Therapy at WorldSkills India, and leads the Standard Sub Committee at the Beauty & Wellness Sector Skill Council.
Q1. Women today are making remarkable progress in professional spaces. Yet, challenges remain. How do you see the current scenario for working women?
Richa Agarwal:
There has been a visible shift in how women approach their careers today. Many are pursuing higher education, exploring entrepreneurship, and actively participating in the workforce. However, progress has not eliminated all the barriers.
Women still encounter challenges such as unequal recognition, limited leadership representation, and the ongoing pressure of balancing professional and personal responsibilities. While urban areas have gradually adapted to these changes, in smaller cities the mindset shift is still evolving.
Despite these hurdles, what stands out today is the growing determination among women to pursue their ambitions and create independent identities.
Q2. In your experience, what kind of challenges do women in Tier-2 cities and smaller towns usually face when trying to build careers?
Richa Agarwal:
Women in smaller towns often face a very different set of challenges compared to those in metropolitan cities. Social expectations can sometimes influence the choices available to them. In many families, daughters are still encouraged to follow conventional career paths or prioritise domestic roles.
Another issue is the limited access to professional exposure and structured training facilities. Many young women are talented and passionate, but they may not have easy access to institutes that offer specialised skill education.
Additionally, the idea of women starting their own businesses or working independently is still new in certain communities. However, we are gradually witnessing a positive transformation as more families begin to recognise the value of women’s financial independence.
Q3. The beauty and wellness sector is often considered an empowering space for women. How does this industry create opportunities?
Richa Agarwal:
The beauty and wellness industry has evolved into a powerful platform for women’s employment and entrepreneurship. One of its greatest strengths is that it is skill-driven. A woman who acquires professional training in this field can begin working relatively quickly and gradually build a strong career.
This sector offers diverse opportunities, ranging from skincare and cosmetology to makeup artistry, hair styling, and spa therapies. Many professionals eventually establish their own salons or beauty studios, which further expands employment opportunities within their communities.
Because of this flexibility and growth potential, the beauty and wellness industry has become an important contributor to women’s economic empowerment.
Q4. You have interacted with many students and professionals across the country. Have you seen inspiring journeys from smaller towns?
Richa Agarwal:
Absolutely. Some of the most inspiring success stories come from smaller towns where women have worked incredibly hard to overcome limitations.
I have seen young women arrive with very little exposure but a strong desire to learn. With proper training and mentorship, they develop technical expertise and confidence. Over time, many of them secure positions in reputed salons or launch their own ventures.
Their achievements often encourage other girls in their communities to pursue professional training as well, creating a positive cycle of growth and inspiration.
Q5. How important is skill development in helping women translate their ambitions into real opportunities?
Richa Agarwal:
Skill development is the foundation of professional empowerment. When women receive structured training, they not only learn technical expertise but also develop confidence in their abilities.
Professional certification also builds credibility in the industry. It ensures that individuals understand modern techniques, hygiene standards, and global practices. This makes them better prepared for the evolving demands of the beauty and wellness sector.
For women in smaller towns especially, skill training acts as a gateway to employment and entrepreneurship.
Q6. What can institutions and the industry do to support aspiring women professionals in smaller cities?
Richa Agarwal:
The most important step is expanding access to quality training programmes in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities. When professional education is available locally, it becomes easier for young women to pursue their aspirations.
Awareness is also crucial. Families and communities need to understand that industries like beauty and wellness offer respectable, stable, and rewarding career paths.
Industry bodies, training institutes, and policymakers should work together to create initiatives that encourage women to acquire professional skills and explore entrepreneurial opportunities.
Q7. What would be your message to young girls in smaller towns who dream of building successful careers?
Richa Agarwal:
I would encourage them to stay determined and never underestimate their potential. Talent and ambition can emerge from any corner of the country.
Learning new skills, seeking guidance from mentors, and staying committed to continuous growth can open many doors. Women should not feel limited by geography or social expectations.
When determination meets the right training and opportunities, success becomes achievable.
Q8. As we celebrate International Women’s Day, what message would you like to share with women across India?
Richa Agarwal:
Women’s empowerment begins with confidence and the willingness to learn. Every woman deserves the opportunity to pursue her dreams and build an independent identity.
Skill development can transform lives by creating financial independence and self-belief. When women succeed, they inspire others around them and contribute to the growth of their communities.
The future belongs to women who are courageous enough to dream and determined enough to turn those dreams into reality.
