Raised in a Sikh family, rooted in public life, governance, and community responsibility, Enu Johal Bala imbibed the enduring values of selfless service, leadership, and social responsibility from an early age. Educated in Dehradun, and later at Loreto College, Calcutta, she combined academic grounding with a cosmopolitan outlook. Moving to the States after marriage, she built a successful corporate career with leading fashion house Georgio, and later returned to India to raise her two children. Her most transformative engagement, however, has been with Project Balika, a non-profit, and her active involvement in her paternal family’s social initiatives. Taking office as president of the Ladies Study Group (LSG), Indian Chamber of Commerce, she brings a rare blend of legacy, global exposure, and a lifelong commitment to service. A t2 chat with Enu...
When did your association with LSG start?
In 2004, I joined as a member, and in 2015, I became a committee member. It allowed me to contribute more actively to LSG’s vision and initiatives. Engaging with over 600 accomplished women, from varied fields, has reinforced my belief in the power of collaboration, empathy, and lifelong learning. It has reaffirmed my conviction that true leadership is anchored in service.
In what ways will you bring in your past leadership experiences in this role?
My professional years in the United States instilled in me a deep respect for discipline, meritocracy, accountability, and performance excellence. Working in a competitive corporate environment taught me the importance of structured systems, measurable outcomes, time sensitivity, and strategic execution. Leadership there was defined by delivery. In India, Project Balika and Komagata Maru Trust, added to my experience, too. This blend of American professional rigour and Indian values of Seva (selfless service) has shaped my leadership philosophy.
What is your theme for this year?
This year holds exceptional significance as we celebrate the Diamond Jubilee year, marking six decades of learning, leadership, and lasting impact. Appropriately, our theme for the year is “Diamond Legacy.” Diamond Legacy reflects the strength, continuity and credibility of the institution, as well as the culture of excellence and responsibility we carry as custodians.
Can you take us through your goals for LSG in the coming year?
To build on LSG’s strong institutional foundation, and strengthen intellectual and meaningful dialogue. I envision curating conversations that are relevant, diverse and forward-thinking, reflecting both national priorities and global perspectives. Equally important is reinforcing institutional governance and operational excellence. I also hope to deepen member engagement and intergenerational participation. I envision LSG evolving as a thought leadership platform with measurable social resonance — one that remains anchored in its founding ideals, yet confidently aligned with the future. I want to ensure that LSG’s Diamond Legacy becomes a bridge to its next era of relevance, responsibility and impact.
What are some of the challenges you are looking forward to addressing?
I look forward to ensuring that tradition and transformation move forward together. With numerous accomplished women, the challenge lies in creating spaces where every voice feels heard and valued. In community outreach as well, I want to ensure that our efforts are not symbolic, rather structured, sustainable, and sensitive to real needs. I wish to cultivate a culture where excellence is balanced with kindness, and leadership is guided by compassion.
What are some of the key lessons you learned from the past presidents of this organisation?
Leadership is stewardship, not ownership. I have also learnt the importance of measured decision-making and institutional discipline — the ability to listen carefully, deliberate thoughtfully, and act with clarity. Strength requires conviction balanced with composure. LSG has always thrived because its leaders respected consultation, encouraged dialogue, and valued diverse perspectives. True progress comes from shared responsibility and mutual respect. Collective leadership and values-driven progress will guide me as I continue this journey.
Are there any major changes you wish to introduce?
My approach is to focus on incremental improvements rather than sweeping shifts. If there are refinements during my tenure, they will be guided by one principle: protect the legacy, strengthen the structure, and prepare thoughtfully for the future.
How are you planning to balance this responsibility with your commitments?
I assume this responsibility with a clear understanding that LSG will be my professional priority this year. I am deeply grateful for the steadfast support of my family. Their encouragement gives me the space to lead with focus and calm. My friends’ goodwill is both humbling and energising. With careful planning, structured delegation, and the support of a capable committee and governing body, I am confident that I can honour this commitment responsibly.