From archetypes to authenticity: How Nirupama Subramanian and Powerfulife are redefining women's leadership

Nirupama Subramanian, through Powerfulife, redefines women's leadership by shifting focus from rigid archetypes to authentic expression, fostering inclusive workplaces grounded in empathy, self-awareness, and emotional intelligence.

- TDG NETWORK

1. You transitioned quite early from a corporate career to leadership development. What shaped that decision, and how did the journey unfold? I started my career in corporate banking at Citibank. It gave me a strong foundation in business, but I soon realized that what energized me most was helping people realize their potential. I was drawn to conversations about leadership, growth, and transformation—things that weren't necessarily part of my job description. I chose to follow that calling early in my career, moving into leadership facilitation and eventually executive coaching.

It wasn't an easy transition. Walking away from a structured corporate path meant learning to trust my instincts—and building a life more aligned with my values of authenticity, purpose, and service. Over three decades, this journey has evolved into Powerfulife Solutions, where I work with leaders, founders, and professionals to help them lead with power, presence, and joy.

2. Leadership coaching has become a crowded space today. What differentiates your approach from others? Today, leadership coaching often emphasizes skills, tools, or checklists. While these are useful, real leadership transformation comes from the inside out.

At Powerfulife Solutions, my work is grounded in helping leaders reclaim their authentic power—the ability to act with agency, presence, and purpose.

Unlike one-size-fits-all programs, my leadership journeys integrate the Being and the Doing—deep inner shifts coupled with visible leadership behaviors.

Through my coaching, I guide individuals to recognize their inherent potential and connect to their own values and purpose to overcome limiting and shadow beliefs that create power blocks.