Our Bureau
Chicago, IL
Shikha Bajaj has been hailed as a transformational leader, mentor, and multiplier at recently held 13th Annual Congressional International Women’s Day Celebration, hosted by the American Multi Ethnic Coalition (AMEC) on March 12, 2025. With an unwavering commitment to empowerment, inclusivity, and leadership, Bajaj has inspired individuals and organizations worldwide to break barriers, embrace their uniqueness, and rise together.
A Visionary Who is Changing Lives
Bajaj’s award-winning book, Own Your Color, has been hailed as one of the top self-help books of the year, winning 10+ prestigious awards in its first year, including the BookFest Awards, International Impact Book Awards, and Book Excellence Award. Recognized for its profound influence, she has been featured among the Top 50 Most Influential Authors of 2024.
By helping individuals achieve personal and professional breakthroughs, the book has not only transformed lives but has also driven cultural transformation within organizations, solidifying its status as a game-changer in leadership, mentorship, and personal growth.
A Story of Resilience and Triumph
Bajaj’s journey—from New Delhi to New York—is a testament to courage, perseverance, and grit. As the first in her family to hold a passport, she arrived in the U.S. with $200, two suitcases, and two million dreams, only to be told she didn’t belong. Instead of succumbing to doubt, she transformed obstacles into stepping stones and carved her own path.
“Be You. Be Bold. The world needs you as you are,” she declared in her powerful acceptance speech, earning a huge applause from an audience moved by her words.
Global Recognition for a Trailblazer
Bajaj’s influence is global, as post AMEC event, she was celebrated at the Embassy of China, where she presented Own Your Color to the Top 20 Global Women of Excellence. She expressed gratitude to Mustafa Ajmeri, CEO of Global Entertainments and Media Services in Atlanta, Dr. VGP of AMEC, and the Embassy of China, while congratulating the extraordinary women bestowed with an honor.
Her journey of accolades continued on March 16, when she was named one of America’s Top 20 Women of Excellence at a grand ceremony in Chicago, hosted by the Global Strategic Alliance (GSA). Reflecting on the moment, she shared:
“Being named one of America’s Top 20 Women of Excellence for 2025 fills me with immense joy and pride. This award is for all women globally, and I am deeply honored to have received it from U.S. Representatives Danny K. Davis, Jonathan Jackson, Raja Krishnamoorthi, President Toni Preckwinkle, Shri Thanedar, and Mayor of Maywood, IL, Nathaniel Booker.”
During the event, she delivered a heartfelt speech featuring a powerful excerpt from her book, Own Your Color, which left the audience inspired:
“Women are strong, powerful, and brave,
Nobody can match their grit and grace.
When we unite, it’s a glorious sight,
We become each other’s light, making everything alright.”
She called on women to support and uplift one another, emphasizing the need for collaboration over competition to build a more inclusive and empowering world.
Driving Transformation in Healthcare and Beyond
Beyond leadership and mentorship, Bajaj is revolutionizing healthcare. As a leader at Publicis Sapient, she drives digital transformation, helping organizations improve accessibility, efficiency, and innovation in healthcare.
Her dedication to community service is equally profound. As a Board Director for Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) of Mercer County and OneProject, she invests her time and expertise in mentoring the next generation of leaders. A portion of Own Your Color royalties directly supports BBBS, reinforcing her commitment to giving back.
A Call to Action: Rise by Lifting Others
Shikha’s philosophy is simple yet powerful:
“Gratitude is the best attitude.” For her, true success isn’t about personal accolades—it’s about how many others we help rise. Her journey is a testament to the power of resilience, mentorship, and service, inspiring people worldwide to step into their power, embrace their uniqueness, and uplift those around them.
To connect with Shikha Bajaj and to explore Own Your Color, visit its website.
