Now that diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are significant reasons organizations thrive in today’s modern landscape, one professional leads the change: Devika M. Das, a trailblazing DEI consultant and learning coach at INSEAD. She is redefining how organizations approach leadership, equity, and inclusion. Recently featured as one of Asia’s Leading DEI Consultants to Watch in 2025, Devika’s story is not just one of professional success; it speaks volumes about resilience, purpose, and a deeply rooted passion for change.
The Journey: Life Coaching to Global Leadership
Devika’s journey into the DEI and leadership coaching space began over two decades ago as a life coach, long before coaching was a formalized profession. She started by providing women with a safe space to discuss their challenges balancing multifaceted lives. What began as one-on-one coaching sessions soon revealed systemic issues—patterns of feedback such as “improve your executive presence” without clear guidance and societal expectations for women to prioritize nurturing over assertiveness.
As Devika transitioned through global roles in countries like India, China, and the Middle East, she observed one undeniable commonality among women: a desire for financial independence, professional recognition, and equitable opportunities. However, deeply entrenched biases, cultural hierarchies, and organizational structures restrained them. These observations, combined with her own lived experiences as a working mother of two daughters, became the foundation of her mission to create inclusive spaces for future generations of women.
Her education at INSEAD marked another transformative milestone, equipping her with the tools to understand systemic psychodynamics, leadership complexity, and the need for unconditional self-acceptance. “It showed me that self-acceptance is the foundation for transformation,” she reflects. Devika’s career is a seamless blend of roles as a consultant, coach, and thought leader, each adding to her expertise in leadership development, inclusion, and organizational strategy.
Milestones of Influence: Paving the Path in DEI
From being a Global Women of Influence Award winner in 2024 to mentoring through 100 Women in Finance initiatives, Devika has carved out key career milestones that solidify her leadership status in DEI consulting. She is part of the Forbes Coaches Council and Harvard Business Review Advisory Council, among other esteemed platforms, where she continues to shape global discussions on leadership and inclusion.
“Writing for Forbes has been particularly fulfilling,” she shares, “because it allows me to translate research-based strategies into practical tools for leaders.” These platforms not only amplify her voice but also align with her philosophy of leveraging collective wisdom to drive systemic change.
The Power of DEI in the Corporate Landscape
When asked about the importance of DEI in today’s organizations, Devika emphasizes that diversity goes beyond gender to encompass race, ethnicity, religion, neurodiversity, and more. “The idea is to accept the whole person with dignity and foster belonging,” she explains.
Devika strongly believes that diversity is not only the right thing to do but also the smart thing to do. “Diverse teams are more innovative, challenge conventional thinking, and are better equipped to serve global markets,” she says. According to her, organizations that embrace DEI have higher employee engagement, lower turnover, and increased profitability. For DEI to truly thrive, it must go beyond policy statements. It must become part of the culture with leadership commitment, measurable goals, and accountability.
Challenges in DEI Implementation: Overcoming Resistance
Even though the effects of DEI initiatives on organizations are undeniable, implementing DEI is not without its challenges. Organizations often face resistance to change, fragmentation, and an absence of leadership accountability. Among the key barriers Devika identifies is a lack of empathy. “Leaders often fail to see the impact of systemic inequities,” she adds.
Her approach to solving such challenges is both strategic and empathetic. She believes in making small, localized changes rather than huge policy announcements. “Every team has unique challenges,” she remarks. By collecting data, creating authentic conversations, and implementing gradual changes, organizations can move toward more extensive transformations.
One of Devika’s most impactful projects was with a mid-sized consultancy company in Europe. Despite its multicultural workforce, the organization faced systemic challenges for women’s career progression. Devika crafted a holistic initiative encompassing mentorship programs, data-driven dashboards, and leadership training on empathy and active listening. In the end, she ensured underrepresented voices were amplified, creating a blueprint for long-term sustainability.
Executive Presence and Inclusive Leadership
For Devika, inclusive leadership is the very soul of effective leadership. “It’s about influence—how you communicate your vision and execute it. Inclusive leaders must inspire trust and make others feel valued,” she explains.
Coaching leaders to embody this presence involves fostering empathy, active listening, and confidence. But Devika also emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy among underrepresented groups. “Women need to unapologetically celebrate their achievements and embrace radical self-acceptance. Presence is not just about being seen—it’s about being heard and respected.”
Cultural Nuances in DEI: A Global Perspective
Devika’s transcontinental career provides her with unique insights into how cultural differences shape DEI initiatives. In Asia, societal norms and hierarchies present unique challenges. “Every country, industry, and culture has its own barriers,” she remarks. “Diversity cannot be formulaic; it requires a localized approach.”
Devika envisions a future where DEI initiatives in Asia are both globally informed and locally tailored. Companies must balance global best practices with regional realities, focusing on intersectionality and building inclusive leadership pipelines. “The next decade will see organizations rolling up their sleeves and addressing challenges at the grassroots level,” she predicts.
Advice to Emerging Leaders: Becoming DEI Champions
Devika’s message to emerging leaders is clear: educate yourself about systemic inequities, be a vocal ally, and recognize that DEI is a continuous journey. “Leadership is about setting the tone for inclusion,” she says. By advocating for equity within their teams, leaders can drive meaningful change, one small step at a time.
Recognition and Motivation: What Drives Devika
Being named one of Asia’s Leading DEI Consultants to Watch in 2025 is more than an accolade for Devika; it is a validation of her mission. “This recognition inspires me to continue empowering leaders and creating lasting change,” she shares.
Her motivation comes from seeing the ripple effects of inclusion. “Seeing a leader embrace diversity and watching it transform their team is incredibly rewarding,” she says. As a mother, coach, and consultant, she views her work as a way to give back to the world—a legacy for her daughters and the next generation of women.
Philosophy for Change: A Personal Reflection
At the heart of Devika’s journey is a simple yet profound philosophy: change begins within. “I believe that I am powerful and capable of making a difference, even if it’s a small one,” she says. By embracing this mindset, she approaches her work with compassion, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to equity.
The Road Ahead: Transforming DEI in Asia and Beyond
As organizations strive to operate in an increasingly complex and diversified world, leaders like Devika M. Das will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of work. By breaking boundaries and building bridges, she is creating opportunities for individuals, teams, and entire systems.
With her unique blend of global experience, academic insights, and heartfelt advocacy, Devika continues to redefine what it means to lead inclusively. She is, indeed, Asia’s Leading DEI Consultant to Watch in 2025—a beacon of hope, inspiration, and change in an evolving corporate landscape.