I’ve been a trailblazer in challenging South Asian cultural norms. In 2010, I took a bold step by leaving my family’s home to pursue higher education, defying traditional expectations. In 2021, my journey took another transformative turn when I came out as a member of the LGBTQ community, solidifying my path of fearless thinking and action.

Originally from Goa, India, I moved to the Bay Area at 15, where I confronted the cultural confines that often limit Goan girls from conservative Catholic families. Rejecting the notion that marriage was the only path to freedom, I became determined to address the gender disparities deeply rooted in my culture. These experiences fueled my drive to dismantle cycles of gender bias.

In 2020, I launched the podcast FearLESS by Francesca to advocate for the economic empowerment of women and girls within the South Asian community, while tackling issues like gender-based violence and mental health stigma. My coming out in 2021 wasn’t just a personal milestone—it became a platform for amplifying LGBTQ voices through public speaking and advocacy.

In 2022, I founded a business dedicated to sharing transformative strategies with global communities. As a member of the UCSF Committee on the Status of Women, I played a pivotal role in addressing issues related to race, gender, disability, and sexual orientation. We explored unconscious biases in the workplace and proposed strategies for fostering inclusive environments where diverse identities are celebrated.

Embracing my non-binary identity was another important part of my journey, leading me to gender-affirming care and a deeper understanding of my place in the world. Now, as an MBA student at UCLA Anderson, I’m building an online community to share my gender journey, empowering not only South Asians but everyone on their own paths of self-discovery. My message to my non-binary and transgender peers is simple: you are not alone.

Looking ahead, my vision extends beyond personal narratives. I aspire to consult with businesses to create safe and inclusive environments for non-binary and transgender individuals, ensuring they feel valued in the workplace. By shaping corporate culture to support growth and development, I am committed to being a leader who forges a prosperous and joyful future for the transgender and every marginalized community.