Lavanya Murali, HSBC Production Operations Lead and 2024 WiBF Award Winner, Shares Her Journey

When we celebrate our award winners, we know the recognition extends far beyond a single moment on stage – it sparks growth, courage and inspiration that continue to shape careers long after the spotlight fades. One such story comes from Lavanya Murali, winner of the 2024 WiBF Award for Achievement in Operations, Technology and Customer Support.

In her own words, Lavanya reflects on how that moment of recognition has transformed her confidence, leadership, and commitment to lifting others, offering a powerful reminder of why these awards matter:

“One year ago, I stood on stage as the winner of the WIBF Award for Achievement in Operations, Technology and Customer Support. In that moment, I felt both proud and humbled, proud of the journey that led me there and humbled by the incredible women who stood alongside me as finalists.

What I didn’t realise at the time was just how much that recognition would change me. Over the past year, the award has given me something I hadn’t truly embraced before, confidence. Confidence to back myself in difficult situations, to share my ideas more openly, and to see the value of my contributions beyond just the day-to-day. The visibility and recognition that came with the award reminded me that the work I do and the work my team does, matters.

This past year has also been about paying it forward. I’ve been fortunate to have the support of mentors and my manager, who have always encouraged me to keep growing. With that encouragement, I had the privilege of nominating one of my own team members for this year’s awards. Watching them become a finalist has been one of the proudest moments of my career, because it isn’t just about me anymore. It’s about creating space for others to shine, and seeing their hard work celebrated too.

One thing I’ve also learned is the importance of being honest about the challenges we face as women. Too often, we feel we must appear as if we have everything under control, but the truth is, many of us are juggling a lot. Balancing work, family, and personal commitments isn’t easy, and it’s perfectly okay to acknowledge that. By speaking openly about these challenges, we not only normalise them but also create a culture where women can support one another instead of feeling they have to do it all silently.

Winning a WIBF award was never just about recognition, it became a catalyst. A catalyst for growth, for courage, and for lifting others up.

I’m grateful for everything this past year has brought, and most of all, I’m excited to see where the journeys of women in banking and finance continue to lead. If my story says anything, I hope it’s this: put yourself forward. You never know who you might inspire, including yourself.”

This is your final chance to join over 700 banking and finance professionals and celebrate alongside our 2025 winners, just like Lavanya, at the industry’s most iconic night of celebration, inspiration and recognition.

Ticket sales will close this Friday, 29 August, and no further extensions will be offered.