Aditi Balbir
Pioneering Sustainable Tourism and Empowering Women Entrepreneurs
In a world increasingly conscious of the environmental impact of travel and the need to empower women in business, Aditi Balbir shines as an inspirational figure.
As the Founder & CEO of V Resorts, she has revolutionised the Indian leisure industry with a sustainable and inclusive approach. Aditi's journey is a testament to her unwavering commitment to transforming the travel experience and fostering entrepreneurship among women.
Aditi Balbir's career took a remarkable turn when she founded V Resorts in 2014. This innovative venture offers a distinctive approach to tourism, focusing on upscale, offbeat travel experiences in India.
V Resorts is not just a collection of resorts; it's an embodiment of the real India. It introduces city dwellers to the hidden gems scattered across the country, far from the beaten path.
V Resorts takes pride in identifying, engaging, and managing unique resorts, hotels, and B&Bs, delivering authentic and localised on-ground customer experiences.
Aditi's vision for V Resorts goes beyond the typical tourist experience. Her commitment to sustainability and local community engagement sets her venture apart.
Over the years, V Resorts has seamlessly integrated local villages into its operations, employing 90% local staff, sourcing ingredients from local markets, and promoting regional handicrafts and cuisines.
Each V Resort is built on a sustainable platform, capturing the essence of the real India while maintaining a global standard of service.
Aditi's efforts in sustainable tourism did not go unnoticed. V Resorts was recognised and awarded by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) at ITB Berlin in 2015 and honoured with the prestigious "Best Upcoming Resort Chain" award by Lonely Planet in 2016.
Her focus on aligning her venture with the 12 sustainable development goals propounded by UNWTO underscores her dedication to creating circular and inclusive economies.
As a trailblazing leader in a traditionally male-dominated industry, Aditi Balbir understands the importance of empowering women in business. She believes that more women taking on leadership positions is the future of India.
Aditi's commitment to this vision is evident in her own organisation, where women are encouraged to tap into their potential and take on challenging roles.
She has shattered preconceived notions about certain verticals being male-dominated by appointing women in positions such as pre-operations and content creation, which often require extensive travel and interaction with local staff.
Aditi's dedication to fostering entrepreneurship among women extends beyond her venture.
During her tenure as faculty at the Infinity Business School in 2009, she launched the Young Women's Leadership Program (YWLP), an initiative designed to equip and empower women to start or run their own businesses.
This program provided essential business knowledge, networking opportunities, and an entrepreneurial spirit to the next generation of female entrepreneurs.
Aditi Balbir's contributions to entrepreneurship and sustainable tourism have earned her several prestigious awards and recognitions. In 2016, she was selected as one of the "Dell Foundation's 200 Most Powerful Women Entrepreneurs in the World."
The following year, CNBC TV 18 honoured her with the "Young Women Business" award, and she received the "Exceptional Women of Excellence 2017" award from the Women Economic Forum.
Aditi's commitment to social responsibility extends to her involvement in organisations like TIE, Jan Madhyam (an NGO focused on employability for mentally challenged girls), and Round Table International, where she promotes community service through fellowship.
Aditi Balbir's journey from a finance career to becoming a trailblazing entrepreneur in the travel industry showcases her resilience, commitment to sustainability, and passion for empowering women in business.
Her unwavering dedication to sustainable tourism and entrepreneurship has not only transformed the travel experience in India but has also set an example for aspiring women entrepreneurs worldwide. Aditi's story is a testament to the power of vision, commitment, and a strong sense of purpose.
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