Tanya Marwaha is a young equality, diversity, and inclusion consultant whose work is deeply rooted in lived experience. From navigating mental health challenges at a young age to building a purpose-driven consultancy that works across the UK, US, India, and Singapore, Tanya’s journey is one of courage, vulnerability, and impact. Humans of Fuzia is featuring Tanya for her unwavering commitment to amplifying unheard voices and creating safer, more inclusive spaces — a story that resonates deeply with our global community of 5M+ women and allies striving for meaningful change through empathy, representation, and leadership.
Q: What inspired you to start your journey? Was there a defining moment or challenge that shaped your path?
My journey really began in childhood. I struggled with my mental health from as young as I can remember, but for a long time, it went unnoticed. I was often called sensitive or dramatic, but in hindsight, I now understand that I was dealing with depression and anxiety. I became very good at masking — academically strong, always smiling — so no one really saw the struggle beneath the surface.
When I was 13, I experienced my first suicidal crisis during a period of deep bereavement in my family. At that age, you don’t know how to articulate emotions, and coming from a South Asian background, I didn’t want to burden my parents or bring any sense of shame. I wanted to be the “best child” they could be proud of.
Everything shifted when I went to university and COVID happened. For the first time, the world was openly talking about loneliness, fear, and mental health. I realised I wasn’t alone — and that made me want to make a difference. I decided that if I shared my story, maybe even one person would feel less alone. That’s when I started Championing Youth Minds, and through that, I found my voice and my purpose.
Q: What were some of the biggest challenges you faced while building your work and putting your ideas out into the world?
One of the biggest challenges has been age. There’s a huge misconception that young people don’t know enough or lack experience. I’m 24 now, and I’ve been running my own business for nearly six years — yet people are often surprised by that.
Another challenge has been cultural. Coming from a South Asian background, mental health is still heavily stigmatised, and many people don’t understand how this work can be a profession. There were expectations for me to follow a more traditional path, like becoming a lawyer, and learning not to feel guilty about choosing differently took time.
I’ve also often been the only young person, the only woman, or the only South Asian person in the room. While that can be isolating, those experiences have helped me create space for others and ensure inclusion isn’t just talked about, but practiced.
Q: Do you work solo, or do you have a support system behind you?
It’s a mix. I have a business partner, mentors, and associates who support me professionally. Even during periods when I was solo-entrepreneuring, I was never truly alone. Personally, my parents and friends have always been there — even if they didn’t fully understand my work, they believed in me.
That support system has been essential. It’s because of the encouragement, guidance, and trust from the people around me that I’m able to do the work I do today.
Q: What has been your proudest milestone so far?
Without a doubt, it was sharing my story on stage and seeing my parents sitting in the front row. That moment meant more to me than any award or financial milestone.
Being open about my experiences has always been difficult, especially because I never wanted my parents to feel guilty or like they missed something. Seeing them proud — seeing them understand how their support shaped my journey — was incredibly powerful.
Q: How has your work and clientele evolved over the years?
My work tends to reflect global conversations. For example, during movements like Black Lives Matter, there was a surge in interest around inclusion and equity. As political and social priorities shift, so does the work.
Over time, I’ve become more intentional about the clients I work with. I’ve learned from difficult experiences, and now I work with organisations that value lived experience and see me for what I bring — not my age or background. That alignment has made all the difference.
Q: What are your thoughts on women empowerment and women in leadership today?
Women have always been leaders — in families, communities, and societies. Unfortunately, the workplace is still catching up in recognising and celebrating that.
The most impactful leaders I’ve worked with have been women because they show up as human. They lead with empathy, authenticity, and connection. Growing up, I didn’t see many empowered female role models in real life, especially within my community. That absence shaped my passion for this work.
Women carry so much — professionally, emotionally, and physically — and yet we’re often expected to simply “push through.” Empowering women isn’t optional; it’s essential. I hope that through my work, I can help another young brown girl feel seen in a way I once needed.
Q: What message would you like to share with aspiring women leaders and entrepreneurs?
Believe in yourself — truly. So often, women feel like they’re constantly proving their worth to others. What changed everything for me was learning to trust my own value.
When you believe in yourself, you stop chasing validation and start building alignment. Be your own biggest champion first, and the right people will naturally find their way to you.
Q: Finally, what does success mean to you today?
Success, for me, is being happy, healthy, and content while making a positive impact. It’s about not sacrificing my well-being for achievement.
If I can feel fulfilled in the small things — the emails I write, the conversations I have — and know that I’m helping others along the way, that’s success to me.
“When you trust your worth and honour your story, you create space not just for yourself — but for others to rise with you.”
Connect with Tanya Marwaha:
- LinkedIn: Tanya Marwaha | LinkedIn
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