Priyanka Rathi: Mentorship is about producing leaders who will mentor others

Q: Based on your collaborations with print associations and manufacturers. What more can be done to inspire more young women to consider a future in our industry?
Priyanka Rathi (PR): The print and packaging sector is no longer a back-office process but a space where automation, sustainability and innovation converge. To attract young women, we must make the industry visible and accessible by spotlighting leaders across R&D, plants and marcom, while also creating structured pathways such as internships through associations like AIFMP, LMAI and ALPS, and institutes like the Indian Institute of Packaging. Industry events, too, can play a role with dedicated student sessions at major expositions or dialogues with leaders can spark curiosity and demystify career paths. Once students see how packaging touches everything from food to fashion and pharma, they discover not just jobs but impact. The future of the sector depends on making that impact aspirational.

Q: You have a voice in terms of how you deploy digital media. How do you bring a fresh perspective to a fast-evolving industry, where there is increased tech-power and a need for design sensitivity? 
PR: Digital media is often mistaken for a broadcast tool. For me, it is a conversation engine. My approach combines three principles: Listen before creating: I map industry chatter, consumer concerns and brand conversations before creating content, ensuring relevance. Design with empathy: Every post must answer, “What is in it for the audience?” If it sparks awareness or inspires curiosity, it has achieved its purpose. Blend data and storytelling: Numbers show impact, but stories create memory. The mix keeps communication powerful. The real “secret sauce” is to treat communication as a service, not just a sales pitch. As we say in Holostik, “We secure lives.” When brands and professionals adopt this lens, their voice naturally gains trust and longevity.

Q: The jury was impressed with how you try to improve team culture. What are some of the strategies you deploy?
PR: Culture is less about words on a wall and more about behaviours in the hall.  I focus on three strategies to guide me: empowering the team by giving them ownership of decisions, keeping curiosity alive through our weekly “learning huddles”, and celebrating small wins in real time rather than waiting for big moments. I also keep my door and mind open, because true leadership is about being accessible, approachable, and sometimes even vulnerable — that’s when culture truly comes alive.

Q: How do you induct new people into print and packaging? Do you offer hands-on experience, open up opportunities, and help make seniors and icons in the industry more accessible?
PR: Induction is not orientation; it is immersion into the history and importance of the industry. New members first step onto the shop floor, where they see the scale of machines converting security labels and packaging, and the transformation of raw material into holographic films. This sensory experience anchors them in the industry’s pulse. Next, they shadow senior colleagues, learning by observing client discussions or projects. Finally, I open up my network, introducing them to industry icons at forums or expos. Seeing leaders up close makes the industry real and aspirational. 

Q: The definition of a mentor is a person who creates career opportunities for people in business; supports the team firmly, and above all, doesn’t suffer fools. What is your mantra?
PR: “When you reach the top, remember to send the elevator back down for others.” That phrase captures the essence of leadership for me. Success becomes meaningful when shared. I create opportunities by exposing my team to challenges outside their comfort zone. I support them when they fail, because failure, if reflected upon, is the best teacher. I expect progress, not perfection. Above all, I value sincerity over cleverness. Skills can be taught; sincerity cannot.
Mentorship is not about producing followers.