Please tell us about your association with Ziqitza and your journey so far.
| Sweta Mangal |
I came back to India after pursuing higher education in the US, and started working in a corporate set up. In 2000, few personal experiences of my close friends Ravi and Shaffi made me realise the need and importance of a well-networked ambulance service in India. Along with my friends, I decided to work towards developing a strong EMS foundation in the country and laid the foundation of Ziqitza Health Care Limited (ZHL).
ZHL journey has truly been rewarding and full of learning. Though we came across a lot of challenges and hurdles, it is those experiences that allowed us to reach the stature that we enjoy today. It seems like yesterday when we started our service with just two ambulances and today we are operating over 860 ambulances across the country and served over two million people. I am indeed filled with pride when I see that our dream of providing ambulance services to all, irrespective of income, is indeed creating a significant social impact across the globe. My commitment towards the cause of touching lives through our services is renewed every day when we listen to the wonderful stories of the lives we have touched and served.
Apart from being a leading ambulance service provider, what are the other business initiatives that you have taken?
I always dreamt of setting up world class education institution in Beawar, Rajasthan (native place). Mangal Newton School is the extension of my dream which has shaped the careers of many students. I am also the Trustee and Co-Founder of Life Supporters Institute of Health Sciences, which is the training arm of ZHL and has trained over 24 personnel across India.
Tell us about Ziqitza’s initiatives that are focused on women.
Being a woman entrepreneur myself I have always believed in the empowerment of women. In fact, at ZHL most of the senior management team comprises women performing most critical functions. Also in 2008, we took the lead to start the 1298 Women’s Helpline. Are you aware that a recent WHO document states that violence against women causes more death and disabilities in 15-44 age groups than cancer, malaria and traffic accidents? Mumbai has the highest percentage of victims. In response to the grave situation of violence against women in the city of Mumbai, the Women’s Helpline 1298, an initiative by Sheriff of Mumbai, Dr Indu Shahani to help women who are facing violence or sexual harassment, was launched on January 28, 2008 with the assistance of leading women’s 75 NGOs in India. On calling 1298, from any mobile or landline, woman in distress are directed to relevant NGOs who provide counselling and assistance. The helpline has received over 30,000 calls since inception, where we have resolved calls related to violence and harassment. It makes me feel very proud to be of some assistance to women in Mumbai.
What is the ‘Speak Out’ initiative by Ziqitza?
‘Speak Out’ is an initiative by ZHL which appeals to citizens to do their bit to improve the society in which we reside. To be pro-active in every walk of life rather than depending on officials, considering that it’s their job. The campaign took another leap this February asking citizens to help the Women’s Helpline by dialling 1298 and requesting them to help in tackling atrocities against women. We wish to spread the message that help is only four digits away (1298).
Any special message for our readers on International Women’s Day?
To live a happy life we need to tie it to the goal and not to people or things. The day we realise this thought stated by Albert Einstein the world will be a happy place to reside in.