Dr. John Hoffmire: It’s a delight to have the chance to reconnect with you, Apoorva. My lasting impression of you when you were a Chevening fellow at Oxford was that you were a champion for diversity, equity, and inclusion. Your work at WPP India has garnered significant recognition, especially in the realms I’ve just mentioned. What drives your passion for these initiatives?

Apoorva Bapna: My passion stems from a fundamental belief that, to thrive, everyone deserves a fair chance and a supportive environment. I’ve seen how systemic biases can stifle creativity and potential, both in the workplace and society. My goal is to create a culture where diverse voices are heard and valued, which I believe is essential for progress—not just for individuals, but for organizations and communities.

John: You founded WPP Unite’s India chapter to foster awareness and inclusivity for the LGBTQ+ community. Can you share why this initiative is particularly important to you?

Apoorva: Absolutely. The LGBTQ+ community in India has historically faced discrimination and exclusion in many spheres, including the workplace. Creating WPP Unite was about ensuring that everyone feels safe, valued, and empowered to be their authentic selves.  Inclusivity not only enriches our culture but also drives innovation. When people can express their true selves, it leads to diverse perspectives and ideas that can significantly benefit our clients and the broader community.

John: You also lead WPP Stella, the global employee resource group for women, which has become the largest chapter globally. What do you believe has contributed to its success?

Apoorva: The success of WPP Stella is a collective effort. We’ve created a platform where women can share their experiences, challenges, and triumphs. The focus on mentorship and professional development has been crucial. It’s about building a community where women can support each other and push for change within their organizations. Visibility and representation matter; when women see others succeeding, it inspires them to pursue their ambitions and persevere through their challenges.

John: The work that your organization does and especially what you are doing in the space of DEI impacts the industry as a whole; WPP is the founding member of the UN Women’s UnStereotype Alliance chapter in India which you represent. How do you see the media’s role in shaping societal perceptions of gender?

Apoorva: The media wields tremendous power in shaping narratives and perceptions. It can either reinforce stereotypes or challenge them. With the UnStereotype Alliance, we aim to promote progressive portrayals of women and marginalized groups in advertising and media. By showcasing diverse stories, we can help shift societal norms and empower individuals to break free from limiting beliefs about gender and identity.

John:  I believe the work you are doing is greatly needed in this world of ours. It’s no wonder that you were selected as a Chevening Gurukul Fellowship for Leadership and Excellence as part of the 2023 cohort. Tell me about your experience at Oxford and what kind of impact it has had?

Apoorva:  The three months I spent at Oxford were transformative in numerous ways. Education does not come with a time stamp. At 44, I made the deliberate choice to immerse myself in the rich academic environment of the University of Oxford. My motivation was not solely personal; I aspired to set a compelling example for my teenage daughter, demonstrating the significance of pursuing one’s dreams and turning them into reality. I embraced the essence of student life—cycling to campus daily and approaching each session with a receptive mind. This program provided me with the invaluable opportunity to engage with distinguished academicians, coaches, and statesmen—a remarkable tapestry of diverse individuals. It broadened my horizons, allowing me to delve into a wide array of topics and issues, deepening my understanding of geopolitics and cultivating a nuanced worldview. Most importantly, it challenged me to step beyond my comfort zone, significantly enriching my insights into the myriad critical issues confronting our world today.

I will always cherish my three-month experience in Oxford, filled with unforgettable moments—from discovering my favorite spiced rum to embarking on solo travels, forging lifelong friendships, and embracing countless enriching experiences.

John:  Apoorva, it has been my pleasure to be your teacher and to interact with you again through this interview. You are doing great things in the world and I wish you nothing but the best.

 

Apoorva Bapna is the Chief Culture Officer at WPP India, a member of the WPP Country Manager’s leadership team, and a Chevening GURUKUL Fellow, University of Oxford, 2023

John Hoffmire is a Research Associate at the Oxford Centre for Mutual and Co-owned Business.