On the occasion of International Women’s Day, Small Enterprise India proudly celebrates the wisdom, resilience, and leadership of women who dare to break barriers and redefine success. Among such inspiring figures is Dr. Maithili Tambe, CEO of TAS (The Academy School) Pune —a visionary leader who transitioned from dentistry to education to create a lasting impact on young minds. Her journey is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and purpose.
In this heartwarming interview, Dr. Tambe shares how she found her true calling in education, driven by the desire to empower the next generation. She speaks about TAS’s innovative approach to holistic learning, her vision for nurturing future women leaders, and the challenges she has faced as a woman in leadership. Her story is one of courage, adaptability, and an unshakable belief in the transformative power of education.
As we honour women who lead with vision and strength, Dr. Tambe’s journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring leaders everywhere. Her words resonate with the message that education is not just about knowledge, but about shaping confident, empowered individuals who will go on to change the world.
Here are the excerpts from the interview with Small Enterprise India.
Q. As a woman leader in education, what inspired you to transition from dentistry to becoming an educationalist and leading TAS?
My transition from dentistry to education was profoundly inspired by my desire to impact lives and I discovered that while I enjoyed helping patients, my true passion lay in empowering the next generation through knowledge and mentorship. Witnessing the transformative power of education in shaping young minds and opening doors to opportunities ignited a spark within me. I realised the critical need for passionate educators who could inspire students to pursue their dreams. My own experience as a female professional in a male-dominated field reinforced the importance of representation and mentorship for young women aspiring to enter any profession. This realisation inspired me to move towards education. Each day, I am fuelled by the potential of my students, knowing that with the right support and education, they can break barriers and create a brighter future for themselves and their communities.
Q. How does TAS incorporate innovative teaching and learning solutions to ensure holistic development for students?
TAS employs a dynamic curriculum that blends traditional academic excellence with experiential learning opportunities, encouraging students to engage in real-world problem-solving alongside their theoretical studies. By utilising, project-based learning, and collaborative group work, TAS fosters critical thinking, creativity, and interpersonal skills among its diverse student body. The school emphasises the importance of social and emotional learning, offering programs that nurture resilience, empathy, and self-awareness. Extracurricular activities, ranging from arts and athletics, smart classrooms, state-of-the-art laboratories, music room, audio-visual aids, to sports facilities, are woven into the fabric of daily life at TAS, allowing students to discover their passions and develop leadership skills.
Q. Can you share your vision for empowering young girls at TAS to become future leaders?
At TAS, I envision a vibrant program for young girls that goes beyond traditional academics to include dynamic leadership workshops, mentorship opportunities with women leaders from various fields, that encourage them to voice their ideas and take part in community projects. By creating a safe and supportive environment where girls feel valued and understood, we aim to inspire them to embrace their unique strengths and perspectives. Incorporating activities such as public speaking, debate clubs, and STEM-focused projects will not only hone their skills but also cultivate a mindset of resilience and innovation. My vision includes not only equipping these young women with the tools they need to succeed but also instilling in them the belief that they can effect meaningful change in the world.
Q. What challenges have you faced as a woman in leadership, and how have you overcome them?
As a woman in leadership serving as the CEO of a school, one of the most significant hurdles has been navigating the preconceived notions often being assessed through a different lens than my male counterparts, where my assertiveness might be misinterpreted as aggression, and my empathetic approach seen as weakness. To overcome these challenges, I have focused on building a strong, transparent communication channel with staff, parents, and students. Through resilience, advocacy for equality, and a commitment to professional development, I have not only sought to fulfill my role effectively but have also worked to inspire the next generation of female leaders, creating a school culture that celebrates diversity and empowers all voices.
Q. What advice would you give to women aspiring to take on leadership roles in education?
Firstly, cultivate a strong sense of self-awareness and confidence in your abilities. Understanding your strengths and areas for growth will empower you to navigate obstacles more effectively. Seek out mentorship from established leaders in your field, as they can provide invaluable insights and advice based on their experiences. Learn to embrace resilience; the educational landscape is ever-changing, and the ability to adapt and persevere in the face of challenges is essential. Prioritise ongoing professional development by pursuing advanced degrees, certifications, or specialised training that aligns with your leadership aspirations. Finally, advocate for equity and inclusivity within your educational environment, championing policies and practices that empower all voices, especially those that have historically been marginalised.