Megha Das 
In the bustling world of consultancy and entrepreneurship, standing out requires more than just ambition; it demands determination and a profound sense of purpose. Aparajita Acharya, the founder of Icon & I Consultancy, epitomizes these qualities, shaping her path from adversity to success while championing gender equality and social impact. As the founder of Icon & I Consultancy, she has not only carved out a niche in the competitive world of recruitment but has also embarked on a mission to empower women, uplift communities, and foster inclusive growth.
A Journey of Resilience
Aparajita Acharya’s journey began against a backdrop of personal loss and upheaval. Raised in a family where her father served as the chief manager at Bank of India and her mother as an accountant, she witnessed the harsh realities of life early on. Tragedy struck during her 9th grade when her father passed away, leaving the family to navigate through challenging times. Despite the setbacks, Aparajita persevered, securing admission in school and eventually pursuing higher education.
“After experiencing loss and struggle, I realized the importance of resilience and independence,” Aparajita reflects. “My major focus was to make my family proud and contribute positively to society.”
Her educational journey took her from Bhubaneshwar to Pune, where she pursued an MBA and postgraduate diploma in foreign trade. With determination and hard work, she carved a successful career in the recruitment industry, rising through the ranks and gaining invaluable experience over a span of 14 years.
Founding Icon & I Consultancy
Armed with an MBA and a wealth of experience in the corporate world, Aparajita Acharya ventured into entrepreneurship in 2022, founding Icon & I Consultancy. She was driven by a vision to make a meaningful impact on society and empower individuals through employment opportunities. Reflecting on the challenges of starting her own venture, she recalls the initial struggles of establishing her brand and building a client base.
“The transition from corporate to entrepreneurship was daunting, but I was fueled by a desire to create something meaningful,” says Aparajita. “Building credibility and gaining recognition forIcon & I Consultancy was a gradual process, but every challenge strengthened my resolve.”
Empowering Women and Driving Social Impact
One of the distinctive aspects of Icon & I Consultancy is its focus on gender equality and social impact. Aparajita’s commitment to empowering women is evident in her team composition, where all members are women, including freelancers who have taken career breaks.
“When I decided to hire primarily women, it wasn’t just about filling positions. It was about giving women a chance to regain their financial independence, to pursue their careers despite setbacks,” Aparajita explains. “I believe in an inclusive workforce where talent and potential know no gender. By providing training and support, we enable women to re-enter the workforce and contribute meaningfully to the economy.”
Beyond gender equality, Icon & I Consultancy actively engages in corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities, collaborating with NGOs and community organizations to address social issues and uplift marginalized communities. Aparajita’s vision extends to fostering entrepreneurship and supporting startups in Odisha, contributing to the state’s economic growth and development.
“We are very much into CSR activities,” she states emphatically. “I see it as not just a responsibility but an opportunity to give back, to create meaningful change in the communities we operate in.” says Aparajita
Looking Ahead: A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Aparajita Acharya envisions a future where Icon & I Consultancy becomes synonymous with excellence, integrity, and social responsibility. Her plans include expanding the firm’s reach, diversifying its offerings, and cementing its position as a catalyst for positive change. As Icon & I Consultancy celebrates its two-year milestone, She envisions expanding the company’s CSR initiatives, investing in skill development and training programs, and enhancing its brand presence to attract more clients and opportunities.
“In the coming years, we aim to broaden our impact and create a more inclusive workforce,” Aparajita affirms. “Our focus will continue to be on empowering women, supporting communities, and delivering exceptional service to our clients. With dedication, passion, and a commitment to our values, I believe the sky is the limit.”
Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Drawing from her own experiences, Aparajita offers valuable advice to young entrepreneurs embarking on their journey: “Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, and prioritize long-term goals over short-term gains. Remember, success is not just about financial prosperity but also about making a meaningful impact on the lives of others.”
As Aparajita Acharya continues to inspire and lead by example, her journey exemplifies the transformative power of entrepreneurship and the enduring spirit of resilience and compassion. With Icon & I Consultancy as her platform, she remains dedicated to shaping a brighter, more inclusive future for all.
