Jonas Prasanna

How do you lead in a world where AI, ambiguity and opportunity are all exploding at once? In our opening session “Turning the Kaleidoscope: Celebrating Leadership and Growth in a Changing World”, Jessica Jensen, Chief Marketing & Strategy Officer, LinkedIn and Kirthiga Reddy, CEO, Verix & OptimizeGEO reminded us that while tools are getting smarter, it’s still human curiosity, courage and creativity that shape the future of work. From India’s fast-evolving talent landscape to the rise of portfolio careers, AI fluency and the power of joy at work, this conversation set the tone for #SHRMIAC25 as a true Festival of Work, where we don’t just adapt to change, we celebrate it and lead it. #SHRMIAC2025 #FestivalOfWork #Letscelebrateyou

Personalized well-being isn’t a policy on paper, it’s what people feel every day. At our power panel “Anticipate. Adapt. Thrive.” panelists Siri Vishwanath, Alexander Rinku, Dileep Joshi and Geetika Kwatra unpacked how to move from generic wellness to truly bespoke care, small-group reach-outs, high-tech data validated with high-touch conversations, flexible “wallet” choices for employees, and managers trained to be deeply humane. From ERGs and change ambassadors to nuanced data cuts across role, gender, career stage and location, the message was clear: when well-being is embedded into culture, performance follows. Because when we are well, we want many things but when we are unwell, all we want is wellness. #SHRMIAC2025 #FestivalOfWork #Letscelebrateyou

Allison Howell, unpacked the less visible but deeply consequential side of leadership, the derailers that emerge under pressure. She reminded leaders that charisma may get you noticed, but impact gets you trusted. Strengths can become liabilities when overused, reputation matters more than self-perception, and under stress, our true traits get amplified. Everyone has a dark side, but strategic self-awareness, honest feedback, and intentional coaching keep it from managing you. A timely reminder for leaders navigating high-growth, high-pressure environments. #SHRMIAC25 #FestivalOfWork #LetsCelebrateYou