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Say yes to the unexpected: Anisha Ahluwalia on the power of unconventional paths
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“Weber Shandwick is the place who can find a spot for anyone who can provide an interesting point of view. This isn’t a cookie cutter place.”
Anisha Ahluwalia
Global CMO, Weber Shandwick
Since 2021, AFIRE — one of Weber Shandwick’s six Business Resource Groups — has translated Asian American culture for our clients and served as the heart of celebrating the generations of Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) people who have shaped this country, its culture, its institutions and its industries.
To celebrate AANHPI Month, I had the privilege of interviewing Weber Shandwick’s Global CMO Anisha Ahluwalia. As one of the most accomplished leaders in our industry, we put the spotlight on her career and explored why authentic representation at the top truly matters.
Anisha’s story is exactly the kind we should be celebrating this month. With more than 20 years of experience across media, digital and communications, she shared her journey from undergraduate years at Northwestern, how she earned her MBA from Chicago Booth while navigating her career, and her rise to the Global CMO seat. She is also a past Chair for AFIRE— a baton I’m proud to take on alongside my co-chair, Ryan Hom.
Following our conversation, I wanted to share five of Anisha’s most powerful quotes, translated into five key insights. This practical advice applies to AFIRE members, allies —and all employees as they navigate owning their own career.
Say yes to the unexpected
On her transition from CX to Corporate: “It started with someone saying, ‘Oh maybe you can help us with the website’, so I started helping with that. It wasn’t a plan. I never had a five-year plan. I said, ‘I’ll try this’.”
The insight: We often feel pressure to have our whole career path figured out from day one, but Anisha’s journey is a great reminder that some of the best opportunities come from unexpected turns. Anisha’s pivot—first from digital to our industry, then from CX to Corporate—shows us the value of staying open to unexpected moves and opportunities along the way.
Own your perspective
On joining this industry from outside PR: “You just try to add value, and people receive that in their own way. Do I think I don’t fit in this industry? …. I’m not trying to get myself into that story; it helps me take a more objective lens. I try to see it more as an advantage.”
The insight: Staying true to who you are and what makes you unique and sharing your perspective really matters. You were brought into the room for a reason, and our teams are stronger because of the ideas, experiences, and point of view that only you can bring.
Be a sponge
On mentors and sponsors: “There are always people on your path. Be curious, be an observer. Understand how someone is doing things. I never said, ‘Knock, knock can you be my mentor?’ but I think it’s more of an informal, spongey kind of thing.”
The insight: You don’t need a formal mentorship to learn from someone you admire. Sometimes it can be as simple as paying attention to how a leader navigates challenges and reaching out for a casual coffee chat to hear more about their experiences and lessons learned. We learn from each other, and those conversations can often spark ideas you can apply to your own path and work.
Trust the timing
On advice for her younger self: “Have another drink. Relax. Sometimes it’s good to be intentional but also be open. If you’re too focused, you may miss something coming your way.”
The insight: Take a breath. We are in a moment of rapid transition and change as both an agency and an industry. Staying open to change and unexpected opportunities can help you grow in ways you may not have planned for — especially as new possibilities continue to emerge every day.
Own your multidimensional talents
On dealing with the idea of a “Model Minority” and other stereotypes: “’She must be good at math.’ I am, but they didn’t know that. I’m also creative.”
The insight: People may sometimes make assumptions about where you “fit,” but it’s important not to let that define you. You are here for a reason, and you shouldn’t be afraid to show what you bring to the table. You don’t have to choose between being strategic and creative — some of the strongest contributions come from being able to do both.
And to our allies? Meaningful allyship can be as simple as intentionally creating space for AANHPI colleagues within your mentorship and sponsorship circles. We’re grateful for those who continue learning, growing, and showing up alongside us and, as always, welcome our employees to formally join the AFIRE community today.
Written by Wendy Hsiao
AFIRE Co-Chair and Vice President, Earned Media Strategy (Atlanta)
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