Swarnlata Dakua
Pharma Professional | Pharma Product Development Expert | Leadership Development Expert | LinkedIn’s Top Product Innovation Voice
Q1. Can you share a brief overview of your career path and what inspired you to enter the pharmaceutical field?
My career journey has been anything but not a bed of roses. Coming from a middle-class family with hardworking and forward-thinking parents, I was raised to believe that nothing is beyond reach. Despite having two daughters in a society that often-placed limits on women, my parents, instilled in us the belief that we could achieve anything if we think on.
My father, a pillar of strength and discipline, set high standards for us. His dream was for me to become a doctor or an engineer. I was an average student, but he taught me the value of hard work, which became my guiding principle during the competitive 80s and 90s. Despite my repeated attempts, I couldn’t crack the medical entrance exam. However, each time, I secured admission to pharmacy programs.
At the time, the perception of pharmacy as a profession was limited to being a “compounder” under a doctor’s guidance. Recognizing the potential of the pharmaceutical industry, my father researched the field and explained its nobility, emphasizing how it saves lives and contributes to society as much as being a doctor does. His belief in me encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone and pursue pharmacy far from home.
Living away from home was a transformative experience. It taught me self-reliance, decision-making based on my morals, and the value of self-belief. My father believed in me even when I doubted myself, and that unwavering belief became my strength. College life shaped me into the strong, disciplined individual I am today, teaching me to navigate different mindsets, set boundaries, and persevere.
Being the first in my area to clear an entrance exam and study away from home, my journey inspired many others to follow the same path. I went on to complete my master’s and am now on the verge of completing my PhD, soon earning the title of “doctor.”
Looking back, I am filled with gratitude for my parents’ sacrifices and their relentless dedication. They are proud of who I have become, and their pride motivates me to keep striving.
Message:
“Your journey may not always be easy, but with hard work, resilience, and belief in yourself, you can turn obstacles into stepping stones—and inspire others to do the same.”
Swarnlata Dakua
Pharma Professional | Pharma Product Development Expert | Leadership Development Expert | LinkedIn’s Top Product Innovation Voice
My career journey has been anything but not a bed of roses. Coming from a middle-class family with hardworking and forward-thinking parents, I was raised to believe that nothing is beyond reach. Despite having two daughters in a society that often-placed limits on women, my parents, instilled in us the belief that we could achieve anything if we think on. My father, a pillar of strength and discipline, set high standards for us. His dream was for me to become a doctor or an engineer. I was an average student, but he taught me the value of hard work, which became my guiding principle during the competitive 80s and 90s.
Despite my repeated attempts, I couldn’t crack the medical entrance exam. However, each time, I secured admission to pharmacy programs.
At the time, the perception of pharmacy as a profession was limited to being a “compounder” under a doctor’s guidance. Recognizing the potential of the pharmaceutical industry, my father researched the field and explained its nobility, emphasizing how it saves lives and contributes to society as much as being a doctor does. His belief in me encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone and pursue pharmacy far from home.
Living away from home was a transformative experience. It taught me self-reliance, decision-making based on my morals, and the value of self-belief. My father believed in me even when I doubted myself, and that unwavering belief became my strength. College life shaped me into the strong, disciplined individual I am today, teaching me to navigate different mindsets, set boundaries, and persevere.
Being the first in my area to clear an entrance exam and study away from home, my journey inspired many others to follow the same path. I went on to complete my master’s and am now on the verge of completing my PhD, soon earning the title of “doctor.”
Looking back, I am filled with gratitude for my parents’ sacrifices and their relentless dedication. They are proud of who I have become, and their pride motivates me to keep striving.
Message:
“Your journey may not always be easy, but with hard work, resilience, and belief in yourself, you can turn obstacles into stepping stones—and inspire others to do the same.”
Q2. How has your extensive professional experience of over 18 years in the industry helped you grow as a leader and establish yourself as an expert in your field? What key projects or responsibilities have significantly contributed to this growth?
My Journey to Leadership and Expertise in Pharmaceutical Product Development
Eighteen years in the pharmaceutical industry have been more than just a measure of time—they have been a testament to resilience and growth. This journey has shaped me into a stronger, more disciplined,
focused, and accountable leader. Along the way, I’ve faced challenges that tested me on various fronts—my work, appearance, attire, being a woman, being quiet, or even being hardworking instead of “smart-working.” Judgments came from all directions—peers, colleagues, seniors, and juniors—but instead of letting them define me, I used them as stepping stones to evolve.
Every challenge I encountered became an opportunity to learn and grow. It taught me the importance of listening without judgment, of maintaining discipline, and of staying focused on my goals. These experiences also gave me a deep understanding of how a leader should behave, not just to achieve results but to inspire and uplift their team.
Professionally, I have been fortunate to contribute to various key projects that honed my expertise in pharmaceutical product development. Over the years, I have successfully led teams in developing innovative solutions, optimizing product pipelines, and integrating data-driven strategies to enhance outcomes. My ability to guide cross-functional teams, mentor individuals, and deliver results has solidified my reputation as a leader and an expert in this field.
These accomplishments are not just milestones; they are reflections of the lessons I’ve learned. I’ve gained the trust of my teams and peers by being empathetic, fostering collaboration, and maintaining accountability. Today, I proudly label myself a pharmaceutical product development expert and a strong leader who knows the value of resilience, hard work, and continuous learning.
Message:
“Every challenge is an opportunity in disguise—it shapes you, strengthens you, and prepares you to lead with empathy and purpose. True leadership lies in lifting others as you rise.”
Q3. What is the focus of your doctoral research, and how do you balance your studies with your professional responsibilities?
My doctoral research is centered on addressing skin-related conditions, with a specific focus on psoriasis—a particularly challenging and persistent skin disorder. My work involves the development of cocrystal-based solutions designed to target and resolve underlying issues at the subcutaneous level, offering a more effective and innovative approach to skincare treatment. This research aims to contribute to advancements in dermatological therapies by improving the efficacy and patient outcomes in managing psoriasis.
Balancing my doctoral studies with professional responsibilities has been a journey of disciplined time management and careful prioritization. It demands aligning my academic pursuits with the demands of my career, while ensuring consistent support from my family and workplace. This balance is made possible through a combination of structured planning, maintaining focus on long-term goals, and the encouragement of a strong support system.
Message:
“Scientific innovation thrives on persistence and balance—every challenge is a step closer to finding solutions that transform lives.”
Q4. How do you integrate product development with data analytics in your role, and what challenges have you faced in this integration?
Integrating Data Analytics in Healthcare: My Journey and Vision
My personal experience profoundly shaped my understanding of the gaps in healthcare systems. Losing my mother to blood cancer after a two-year battle taught me first-hand the challenges patients and their
families face. From identifying the correct diagnosis and treatment regimens to sourcing medicines across cities and managing financial burdens—even with insurance—the struggle was immense. Despite the challenges, my background in pharmaceuticals empowered me to research medicines, coordinate with multiple doctors, and source life-saving treatments, extending my mother’s life far beyond the prognosis. However, this journey made me acutely aware of the hardships faced by those without similar resources or knowledge.
This experience inspired me to explore how data analytics could address these systemic gaps. During my capstone project in the healthcare domain, I, along with my team, tackled these challenges as a case study. We developed a **centralized healthcare database** integrated with a unique identifier, such as an ABHA card. This system connects patients, doctors, hospitals, and diagnostic reports, streamlining access to medical history, prescriptions, and billing information. By reducing redundant tests and streamlining processes, it not only saves time and money but also minimizes patient stress during critical moments.
Further leveraging data analytics, I patented this idea and developed an **IoT-based medical carrier system**. This innovation automates medication management, storing a patient’s medical history and allowing them to access their medicines remotely and independently through a battery-operated system. This solution is particularly beneficial for elderly or chronically ill patients, enabling them to manage their treatments without constant external support.
Challenges Faced:
Integrating data analytics into such projects involved overcoming several hurdles, including:
– Data Integration: Consolidating disparate medical records and ensuring interoperability across hospitals, labs, and pharmacies.
– User Adoption: Convincing stakeholders, including healthcare professionals, to adapt to digital systems.
– Data Privacy: Ensuring stringent security measures to protect sensitive medical information.
Message:
“Personal experiences often ignite the most meaningful innovations. Through the power of data analytics and a deep understanding of patient challenges, we can revolutionize healthcare, making it more accessible, efficient, and humane for everyone.”
Q5. How do you manage personal growth and continuous learning in such a demanding and dynamic field?
Personal Growth and Purpose Coaching: A Journey of Transformation
Learning is a lifelong process, and the moment we stop learning, we stop growing. Yet, in today’s fast-paced, robotic routines—waking up, rushing through chores, commuting, working endlessly, and repeating the cycle—we often loose touch with ourselves. We neglect meaningful connections with our loved ones, neighbours, or even our own dreams and passions.
During COVID-19, this realization hit me hard. The pandemic forced me to pause and reflect on life’s fragility and what truly matters. It was a time of loss, fear, and uncertainty, but also of profound self-discovery. Witnessing the struggles around me—people losing loved ones, jobs, and hope—I realized how crucial self-awareness and purpose are.
In the midst of my own challenges, I reached out to my network and created a space called *”Here to Hear You,”* a platform where people could share their thoughts without fear of judgment. Listening to countless stories, I recognized a common thread: many were lost,
confused about their purpose, and disconnected from what truly fulfilled them. That’s when I found my own purpose—to empower others to discover and align with their life’s purpose.
To serve others effectively, I knew I had to first invest in my personal growth. I joined a women’s leadership platform also become a certified coach , learning from remarkable leaders and applying those lessons in my life. The transformation was evident—not only in how I saw myself but also in how others began to perceive me. With each step, I grew more confident and skilled, earning recognition in my career, taking on leadership roles, and becoming a trusted voice in my community.
As a Purpose Coach, I now guide individuals in uncovering their life’s purpose, setting meaningful goals, and aligning their actions with their values. This journey involves self-reflection, accountability, and a commitment to growth. Alongside this, my involvement with NGOs has deepened my sense of service—whether it’s supporting underprivileged education or championing women’s empowerment.
Through these experiences, my network has expanded, and my perspective has shifted from *”me”* to *”we.”* I’ve learned that personal growth isn’t just about advancing yourself—it’s about empowering others and creating a ripple effect of positive change.
Message:
“True growth lies not just in achieving success for yourself but in empowering others to find their purpose and build a better world together.”
Q6. What are your future goals and aspirations, both professionally and personally? How do you plan to achieve them?
My answer: Future Goals and Aspirations: Shaping a Legacy of Impact
My journey, shaped by resilience, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to growth, has led me to envision a future rooted in both
professional excellence and personal impact. My ultimate aspiration is twofold: to become a global leader in the pharmaceutical industry and to empower millions of individuals worldwide to align with their purpose and achieve their goals.
**Professionally**, I aim to drive innovation in the pharmaceutical field by addressing unmet medical needs and advancing solutions that improve lives. My focus is on leveraging cutting-edge technologies like data analytics, IoT, and centralized healthcare systems to create transformative outcomes. With my expertise in pharmaceutical product development and a passion for leadership, I aspire to build global collaborations that set new benchmarks for innovation and patient care. Achieving this requires continuous learning, strategic networking, and a steadfast commitment to excellence.
**Personally**, my goal is to extend my impact beyond professional boundaries by empowering others to find clarity and purpose in their lives. Through Purpose Coaching, I want to inspire and guide individuals—especially women and underprivileged communities—to unlock their potential and align their goals with their core values. By sharing my journey, experiences, and lessons, I hope to motivate people to embrace resilience, overcome challenges, and transform their lives.
To achieve these aspirations, I will:
– Pursue lifelong learning by staying at the forefront of industry advancements and leadership practices.
– Expand my network globally, collaborating with like-minded professionals and organizations to amplify my impact.
– Continue Purpose Coaching, reaching a wider audience through workshops, speaking engagements, and digital platforms to empower people to live fulfilled and meaningful lives.
– Support social causes, focusing on education, healthcare accessibility, and women’s empowerment through active involvement with NGOs and other initiatives.
Message:
“My journey is a testament to the power of resilience, learning, and purpose. By becoming a leader who innovates, empowers, and inspires, I aim to leave a legacy that transforms lives and builds a future where everyone can thrive.”
Final Message to All Viewers / Readers through my journey
“Life is a journey of resilience, learning, and purpose. Every challenge we face is an opportunity to grow stronger and discover our true calling. My story is a testament that no matter where you start or what obstacles come your way, your determination, self-belief, and willingness to evolve can create a future beyond imagination.
Remember, success is not just about achieving personal milestones but also about empowering others to rise and thrive. Whether through professional excellence, acts of service, or simply listening to someone in need, we all have the power to make a difference.
Find your purpose, align your goals with your values, and never stop learning. Together, we can create a world where innovation and compassion go hand in hand—a world where everyone has the chance to shine.”
SUCCESS IS NOT A DESTINATION, IT’S A JOURNEY WITH EACH AND EVERY ONE REACHING AT THEIR OWN PACE ..JUST BELIEF IN YOUSELF.
Important Links
- Visit Website
- Podcast
- Email:- swarnlata.behera@gmail.com