The night one young woman led some of the world’s most powerful leaders
In 2008, there was a terrorist attack in Mumbai, India. One of the targets was the Taj Mahal Hotel. My husband and I were inside the hotel with the rest of the Unilever board when the attack happened. You can imagine it was a terrible thing to go through: debris falling all around, bullet shots through the night, hiding hoping nobody finds you.
It was the most difficult night of my life.
But when I think back on that time, what I remember most is the extraordinary courage and leadership of a young woman who worked at the hotel. Mallika Jagad was only 24, but she was so poised, so in command of the situation.
I’m sure nothing in her training had ever taught her what to do when terrorists attack, but she rose to the occasion. She was there to comfort people, to make sure we had water, and to give information when she had it. She took care of everyone all through the night. She was such an extraordinary leader. When dawn broke and the room started filling with smoke, we knew we had to try to escape.
It was Mallika who led us to safety, through many corridors and out via a back door.
As we were leaving, someone said to her: “Ladies first.”
But, she replied: “No, tonight we live by my rules: guests first, staff next — and me last.”
So, in a room of 30 business people, it was Mallika who stood tall and became the true leader. On that terrifying night, she dug deep to find the best in herself. She found her spark.
We all came away feeling that we would not have escaped without her.
To me, that was the very foundation of action. One of my core beliefs is, ‘If it’s to be, it’s up to me’. It doesn’t matter what age you are or what position you are, it’s in the moment, how you show leadership, how you bring everything you’ve got to making an impact. That’s what makes the difference.
UPDATE: I have shared this story about Mallika Jagad on stage and in talks many times over the years — such was the impact she made on me. I recently discovered this TEDX Talk by Mallika in which she shares her experiences of that night. I think it perfectly encapsulates everything I try to impress on people when I speak of her. She is a true inspiration!
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