As the Director of Supply Chain Business Operations at Organon, Tejal Shah has not only led a successful career in the pharmaceutical industry but has also become a driving force for change in her community.

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Celebrating exceptional local women making significant impacts in our community.

Our 2024 Women of Influence Award Winners were nominated by peers and selected by the Family Focus Media team based on their achievements and dedication to creating positive change, as revealed through comprehensive questionnaires. Their profiles showcase their inspiring journeys and accomplishments.

Beyond the awards, our Women of Influence Luncheons and Speed Networking Night attendees form our growing “Women of Influence Network,” a community fostering connections, collaboration, and mutual support. We invite you to explore our Award Winners’ stories and leverage our Network Directory in the Women of Influence Guide. Reach out to fellow members to harness the power of our network through shared growth and support. For further engagement, we welcome business and nonprofit leaders to join our Family Focus Media Community Builders Group on Facebook and our NEW Women of Influence LinkedIn Group.

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A Journey of Resilience and Achievement

Tejal’s path to success wasn’t without its challenges. As her sister-in-law Ishani Shah notes, “From a very young age Tejal Shah has shown resilience in caring for herself with her sister while her mother stayed abroad in India.” Despite these difficult circumstances, Tejal excelled academically, completing both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees at Drexel University.

Science as a Catalyst for Change

For Tejal, science was more than just a subject—it was a ticket to a better life. “I did my 1st science fair project in 4th grade. That led me to part of the Science Magnet Program in High School, which led me to get into Drexel University BS/MS program in Biomedical Engineering with a full scholarship, which led to my current career path,” she reflects. This early exposure to science has shaped not only her career but also her commitment to inspiring the next generation.

Breaking Barriers in the Corporate World

Tejal’s professional journey is marked by continuous growth and a willingness to take risks. She has made significant career shifts, moving from Research & Development to manufacturing operations and then to the business side. “The bigger the risk, the more the return – if successful,” Tejal says, emphasizing the importance of stepping out of one’s comfort zone.

As an Asian woman who grew up as an immigrant, Tejal has faced unique challenges in the global workforce. She has overcome these obstacles by embracing her authentic leadership style and working to build diverse, impactful teams.

Community Engagement and Mentorship

Tejal chairs the annual science fair at her children’s elementary school, leads a Girl Scout troop, and is actively involved in diversity and inclusion initiatives. “My goal is to spark the fire of budding learners in an engaging way – this for me is success – impacting the pathway of 1 person at a time,” she explains.

Tejal also formally mentors interns and colleagues, and provides guidance to younger females through her community involvement.

Empowering Women and Embracing Diversity

Tejal is passionate about female empowerment and promoting gender equality. “Enable females to understand that they have what they need to reach their full potential starting from their childhood – it is up to each of us to put in the effort and seize it,” she says.

Her work in leading the Asian Pacific American (APA) Employee Resource Group and partnering with organizations like the Healthcare Businesswomen’s Association (HBA) further demonstrates her commitment to promoting diversity in the workforce.

Balancing Multiple Roles

Tejal approaches the challenge of balancing various roles and responsibilities with a thoughtful strategy. “Think of your plate as 100% – reflect and prioritize the big stones, pebbles, sand, and water – it will all fit in together and align to your responsibility and personal values and goals,” she advises.

Looking to the Future

As she continues her journey, Tejal remains focused on pursuing “ikigai”—a Japanese concept meaning “a reason for being.” Her goal is to live a meaningful life that encompasses both personal and professional aspirations. “It is not the beginning or the end but the journey that matters – we are all unique and so should be our journey,” she reflects.

Tejal Shah continues to inspire and empower those around her through her commitment to science education, diversity and inclusion, and mentorship. Her story is one of resilience, innovation, and community impact.