Shark Tank India fame Ghazal Alagh on becoming a 'boss' at 20; writes 'A couple of employees left because they didn't want to report into a leader younger than them'

When Shark Tank India judge and Mamaearth co-founder Ghazal Alagh stepped into her first leadership role, she wasn’t just a young entrepreneur—she was also a new mom. At just 20-something, navigating the world of business while raising a newborn, she faced a storm of skepticism and subtle resistance.

In a recent reflection, Alagh opened up about how being a young woman in charge wasn't exactly welcomed by everyone. “A couple of employees left because they didn’t want to report into a leader younger than them,” she shared. With no formal experience, irregular hours, and juggling motherhood, she became an easy target for doubt.

That judgment stung. Imposter syndrome crept in, and self-doubt loomed large. But rather than crumbling under pressure, Alagh chose resilience. She committed to mastering every aspect of her business, showed up with confidence—sometimes faking it until it became real—and embraced her identity as a “mompreneur” instead of trying to fit the corporate mold.

Years later, life came full circle. Some of those early doubters reapplied to work at her company, this time fully willing to report to the very leader they once underestimated.

Alagh’s journey is a powerful reminder of how perseverance can rewrite narratives. Being a woman—especially a young mom—in leadership often means facing extra scrutiny. But as Alagh says, that’s an opportunity: “Give them a show of excellence they can’t ignore.”

Her story isn’t just about personal growth—it’s about shifting perspectives for the next generation. She urges women to find their allies, lean on their support systems, and keep pushing through the bias. “Every time you prove a stereotype wrong,” she writes, “you’re not just helping yourself but making the path smoother for others.”

“So, I will say, keep going because the best revenge is massive success,” she concluded.