Wazma Jawlan Interview
Wazma Jawlan, known as “The Friendly LinkedIn Thought Leader,” is redefining what modern success looks like. With over two decades of experience across major organizations like IAG and Telstra, she has transformed her journey into a mission of purpose and empowerment. As the Founder of InspireHer, a nonprofit dedicated to helping women re-enter the workforce after career breaks, Wazma champions a future of work centered on meaning, inclusion, and growth. Her philosophy—“the future of work isn’t about productivity hacks; it’s about purpose”—reflects her belief that true fulfillment comes from aligning one’s career with one’s soul. Through coaching, mentoring, and authentic storytelling on LinkedIn, Wazma continues to inspire thousands to build not just successful careers, but purposeful lives.
Empowering women
We started the interview by asking, “What inspired you to create InspireHer, and what is the core mission behind it?”
Wazma Jawlan replied, “InspireHer was born out of a deep desire to bridge the gender gap for women who’ve taken career breaks and now wish to re-enter the workforce because I saw so many talented women with potential, but without the right platform, support, or visibility to grow — especially in male-dominated industries. I wanted to build a space that connects, uplifts, and celebrates women who are breaking barriers, starting businesses, and creating change in their communities. I saw so many talented individuals lose confidence simply because they stepped away for personal reasons whether it was motherhood, health, or caregiving. The mission of InspireHer is simple yet powerful: to help these women rediscover their potential, rebuild their skills, and reimagine their careers. Through coaching, mentoring, and modern up skilling programs, we empower them to step back into today’s competitive business world with confidence and clarity. It’s about reigniting purpose and helping women realize that their journey no matter how non-linear their strength is, not their setback.
The core mission of InspireHer is to empower women to believe in their value, amplify their voices, and provide them with real opportunities — whether through mentorship, networking, skills development, or storytelling. It’s about turning inspiration into action and helping women see that they don’t have to wait for permission to lead — they already have what it takes.”
Redefining success through meaning, not just output
The Worlds Times: You often speak about “purpose over productivity.” Can you elaborate on that philosophy?
Wazma Jawlan replied, “Absolutely.
When I talk about “purpose over productivity,” I’m really talking about shifting the mindset from just doing more to doing what truly matters. Productivity is about checking boxes, but purpose is about creating impact.
Too often, women — especially in business— feel pressured to constantly prove their worth through results, deadlines, or perfection. But real success comes when our work aligns with our values and passions. That’s when productivity becomes meaningful.
I recently read a book from my favorite author Simon Sinek “start with why” the books emphasis is that If your work doesn’t connect with your why, you’ll never feel truly satisfied — even if you’re successful. So my emphasis is always find your purpose or your “why’ because purpose keeps us grounded; productivity just keeps us busy. When we lead with purpose, everything else naturally falls into place.”
Leading with empathy
The Worlds Times: You’ve had an impressive journey across major organizations like IAG and Telstra. What have been your biggest leadership lessons?
Wazma Jawlan replied, “Working with organizations like IAG and Telstra taught me that leadership isn’t about authority it’s about empathy and consistency. I learned the importance of listening deeply, understanding people’s needs, and leading by example rather than instruction and delivering on promises and commitments. Every team member I interact with brings a unique story, and a good leader knows how to make space for that individuality while fostering collaboration. Another key lesson is resilience; the corporate world is full of change and challenge, and adaptability becomes your greatest strength. Above all, I learnt from some great leaders ive worked with at IAG and discovered that real leadership is about empowering others to lead creating environments where people feel safe to innovate, speak up, and grow. That’s what builds lasting teams and culture.”
Building genuine connections
The Worlds Times: How do you use social media, especially LinkedIn, to inspire and connect with others?
Wazma Jawlan replied, “I use social media — especially LinkedIn and Instagram — as more than just a platform for updates; it’s a space for storytelling, connection, and empowerment. I believe that sharing our journeys — the wins, the lessons, and even the struggles — allow others to see what’s possible for them too.
On LinkedIn and Instagram, I focus on creating authentic content that speaks to purpose, growth, and women supporting women. I highlight real stories of resilience, career transitions, and impact-driven work to remind others that success looks different for everyone.
My goal is to build community, not just a following — to create conversations that uplift, educate, and open doors for collaboration. I see every post as an opportunity to make someone feel seen, inspired, or motivated to take that next step toward their purpose.”
Finding harmony between purpose
The Worlds Times: What challenges have you faced as a woman balancing corporate leadership and social impact work?
Wazma Jawlan replied, “Balancing both worlds has been fulfilling yet challenging. There are days when I feel stretched thin between professional duties, mentoring sessions, and family and personal commitments. But I’ve learned to embrace imperfection. The biggest challenge is often internal managing expectations and silencing the self-doubt that whispers, “You’re not doing enough.” Over time, I realized that leadership isn’t about doing it all it’s about doing what matters most and waking each day with a purpose. I’ve also faced imposter syndrome and the occasional underestimation, but rather than seeing them as barriers, I see them as reminders of why Inspire Her exists. Every challenge has strengthened my resolve to help women believe that their voice and value deserve to be recognized, everywhere. To do this, I’m surrounded by my supportive husband, a great culture, and leaders at work I learn from, plus my biggest helper is my scheduled calendar that helps me manage work time and after activities and help me find my harmony.
Turning life’s pauses into professional power
The Worlds Times: What advice would you give to professionals returning to work after a long career break?
Wazma Jawlan replied, “My advice is simple: don’t apologize for your break or setback owns it. Life’s pauses often give us the richest experiences, and those lessons are incredibly valuable in the workplace. Focus on what you’ve learned during that time resilience, multitasking, and emotional intelligence these are core leadership skills. Up skill where needed, but don’t undervalue your existing strengths. Surround yourself with mentors and networks that uplift you. And most importantly, rebuild your confidence before you rebuild your résumé. Employers today value authenticity and adaptability more than ever. Returning to work isn’t about starting over it’s about continuing your story with renewed purpose and perspective.”
Shaping a world where purpose drives every career path
Lastly we asked, “Looking ahead, what impact do you hope to create through InspireHer and your thought leadership?”
“Looking ahead, my vision for InspireHer is to create a global movement that empowers women to lead with confidence, purpose, and authenticity — no matter their background or industry or any setbacks in their life. I want to see more women stepping into spaces where they’ve traditionally been underrepresented, not just to participate but to lead and redefine what leadership looks like. I’m developing projects that would encourage employment and mentoring for women in an online space and bridge the gender equity gap around the world.
Through my thought leadership, I hope to shift the conversation from competition to collaboration — showing that when women lift each other, entire communities rise. Ultimately, I want InspireHer to be a catalyst for change: helping women discover their purpose, build meaningful careers, and use their influence to inspire others to do the same and overcome barriers they face.
As a thought leader, I aim to keep sparking conversations around empathy, inclusion, and purpose-driven leadership. If my voice can inspire even one person to believe in themselves again, I consider that a meaningful impact.” Wazma Jawlan concluded
Connect with Wazma Jawlan on LinkedIn
Connect with Inspireher learning on Instagram
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