Passion Meets Purpose

A Life of Data, Leadership, and Empowerment

I’m Rachana Sathiesh, a Data Engineer at IG Group, a leading FTSE250 company. My journey has been shaped by my passion for technology, mentorship, and creating spaces for women in the tech industry. In addition to my role at IG Group, I lead the IG Inspire women’s network, which aims to empower and connect women in the organization. I’m also the Vice President of the IGrow India Leaders Toastmasters Club, where I nurture leadership and public speaking skills in fellow members. I’m also a core member of Women in Tech Club of IG Bangalore and Learning and Development Hub Global.

In my professional career, I’m particularly passionate about data engineering, AI, and generative AI. I’m also spearheading the Google Cloud Platform upskilling initiative at IG Group, leading a team of 60 people. This role allows me to combine my love for technology with my belief in continuous learning, ensuring my colleagues are equipped with the skills they need to thrive in an increasingly digital world.

Personal Background

Born and raised in Bangalore, I grew up in a family that deeply valued intellectual curiosity and personal growth. My father, a businessman, and my mother, a former director at RGUHS and current professor, have always been my pillars of support, encouraging me to push boundaries and explore new possibilities. Raised in a family of scholars, I learned early on the importance of perseverance, hard work, and the pursuit of knowledge. My grandfather, who was also an engineer, has been one of my biggest inspirations, instilling in me the belief that determination and a passion for learning can truly shape your future.

From a young age, I was deeply interested in technology, particularly data and AI. I feel incredibly fortunate that my passion aligns with my profession, which is a rare combination. Right from high school, I manifested my dream of becoming a data engineer or data scientist. To now be able to work in this field every day, and have it be both my passion and my career, is something I consider a true blessing. I truly feel lucky to be among the few whose career path mirrors their passion.

I’m blessed to have a supportive family and friends who constantly uplift me. My parents ensure I always strive for excellence, while my friends live by the belief that “Queens fix each other’s crowns”, always lifting me up and helping me grow. Their love, respect, and support have been instrumental in my journey.

I owe a heartfelt thanks to my little sibling, who has been my anchor during the most challenging times. She has taught me the beauty of going with the flow, cherishing the little moments, and emerging stronger from failures. Her unwavering support, free of judgment, and her ability to offer a comforting shoulder to lean on have been a source of immense strength and inspiration in my journey.

Outside of work, I have a strong passion for the arts, particularly Bharatanatyam. I’ve been a professional Bharatanatyam dancer for over 15 years, having performed in over 50 events, including state-level performances. At the tender age of 11, I became certified by the Karnataka State Government after passing my junior dance exam with First Class. This was a remarkable achievement, as very few pass the exam at such a young age. Not only did I have to read and understand complex Bharatanatyam literature in pure Kannada, but I also had to write the exam in Kannada. At a time when I was just learning to read simple words in Kannada, this was an immense challenge. The training was equally rigorous, requiring 6 hours of dance practice and 4 hours of theory studies per day. This experience taught me discipline, perseverance, and the importance of hard work from a young age.

Achievements & Milestones

Throughout my journey, I’ve been fortunate to achieve several milestones that have shaped who I am today. I graduated with distinction in engineering, where I had the honor of delivering the valedictorian speech at my graduation, an experience that deeply humbled me and reinforced my commitment to leadership. I’m also proud to be one of the youngest leaders at IG Group.

In my two years at IG Group, I’ve successfully conducted 10 events within the office, globally recognized by the CEO, CTO, CFO, and COO. These events ranged from casual networking sessions to technology-focused gatherings, all aimed at fostering engagement, learning, and collaboration. Being recognized by top leadership for these efforts has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my career, as it reflects my ability to organize impactful events aligned with the company’s values.

I have also pursued various certifications in cloud computing, generative AI, and programming and hold certifications by Google, which have helped me deepen my knowledge and expertise in these areas. Additionally, I have built several projects utilizing these technologies, further enhancing my skills and contributing to my passion for innovation in the tech space.

As a fellow at Make A Difference, an NGO dedicated to mentoring youth from underprivileged backgrounds, I guide young individuals between the ages of 18-25 to realize their potential and navigate life’s challenges. Along with mentoring, I lead a team of mentors, overseeing various aspects such as team coordination, managing finances, and ensuring the smooth operation of our initiatives.

One of my key roles is conducting self-sustaining group meetings, where we focus on equipping our youth with essential skills beyond academics. These meetings cover a broad spectrum of topics such as leadership, communication, soft skills, finance, career development, hygiene, and other life skills. By empowering these individuals with practical knowledge and guidance, I strive to give them the tools they need to build better futures and overcome the challenges they face.

One of the most defining achievements of my career has been overcoming imposter syndrome, anxiety, and a lack of confidence. I used to struggle with self-doubt, and mingling with people felt intimidating. However, I dedicated time to understand myself deeply, to explore my strengths, and to build the confidence I needed to truly embrace opportunities. Today, I recognize the importance of self-awareness and believe that when you know who you are, you can confidently pursue your goals and take the space you deserve.

In addition to my professional work, I’m deeply involved in the tech community. I’m an active member of the Google Developers Group and the Google Women Techmakers Group, where I regularly engage in discussions, networking events, and initiatives that foster growth and diversity in tech. Furthermore, I am also a part of the Lean In Women’s Network, a global community that empowers women by providing a platform to support each other’s personal and professional growth. Through these groups, I connect with like-minded individuals, share knowledge, and contribute to fostering a more inclusive tech ecosystem.

Inspirations & Philosophy

“Success is not defined by age, but by the impact you create and the lives you touch. True leadership is lifting others up, acting with consistency, and creating spaces where everyone can shine.”

“The best way to predict your future is to create it—one bold step at a time, with courage, consistency, and the drive to lift others as you rise.”

“True strength lies in kindness and humility. Emotional intelligence is what makes us human— empathy is our greatest strength. Leadership isn’t just about success; it’s about understanding and uplifting others along the way.”

For me, kindness, empathy, and humility are the guiding principles in everything I do. I’ve come to understand that true strength lies not just in achieving success, but in how you support and uplift others along the way. Whether it’s through mentoring or offering a helping hand, it’s about showing up for others. And as you achieve success and receive recognition, it’s important to stay grounded— remaining humble and lowkey. True leadership is about elevating others, not just standing in the spotlight. Ultimately, success is measured by the positive difference you make in the lives of those you connect with.

In my journey as a professional, leader, and individual, I have always aimed to balance my intellectual, emotional, and spiritual well-being. I believe that achieving success is not just about professional accomplishments but also about maintaining harmony in all areas of life. Whether it’s through technology, mentorship, or the arts, my goal is to continue learning, evolving, and inspiring others to do the same. I am passionate about connecting with people, sharing knowledge, and making a positive impact in both my professional network and community.

Connect with me on my Social Media Handles

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachanasathiesh/rachanasathiesh, @rexx_journals
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachana-sathiesh-516b01185? utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
Email: rachana.ework@gmail.com