Smita Mishra 
FEATURED: the heart of Odisha, a state known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant traditions, lies a story of triumph and inspiration. Prachi Mahapatra, a small-town girl from Odisha, has made a name for herself in the global tech industry, shattering stereotypes and breaking barriers along the way. Her remarkable journey from a humble beginning to becoming a top cybersecurity analyst in the United States is a testament to her determination, hard work, and passion for excellence.
Born into a defense family, Prachi’s early life was marked by discipline and a strong sense of values. Her father, Warrant Officer Prakash Mohapatra of the Indian Air Force, instilled in her the importance of hard work and perseverance. These values would serve as the foundation for her future success. After completing her Bachelor’s in Computer Applications from Chennai, Prachi joined Amazon in Bengaluru as an Amazon Tech Analyst. This exposure to the tech industry sparked her ambition to lead in cybersecurity, a field where women are woefully underrepresented.
Prachi’s ascent in the tech world was nothing short of meteoric. She joined Cisco as a Business Analyst but soon rose to Project Manager within three years. Her thirst for knowledge and desire to understand the intricacies of businesses and technology led her to pursue a Master’s in Business Analytics at the University of Texas. However, this dream came with a hefty price tag – a staggering Rs 40 lakh. Undeterred, Prachi opted for a Prodigy Finance loan, which was approved without collateral in a remarkable 20 days. Her father’s offer to sell property to support her education was a testament to the sacrifices parents make for their children’s dreams.
As Prachi navigated the uncharted territory of the United States, she faced cultural shocks and challenges that would have daunted a lesser person. However, her family’s unwavering support, her father’s discipline, and her mother’s determination kept her grounded and focused. Today, as a Product Manager in cybersecurity at Cisco, Prachi tackles AI-driven cybersecurity threats with ease, leveraging her expertise to fuel US innovation.
Prachi’s story is a beacon of hope for every Odia, especially women, who aspire to make their mark in the tech world. Her remarkable journey is a testament to the power of education, hard work, and determination. As she plans to return to India in the next 5-10 years to bolster the country’s tech growth, Prachi’s legacy will continue to inspire generations of young Indians.
What sets Prachi apart is her commitment to giving back to her community. She has repaid her loan within six months, a remarkable feat that speaks to her financial discipline and responsibility. As she continues to soar in her career, Prachi remains humble and grounded, crediting her family and upbringing for her success.
As the world grapples with the challenges of cybersecurity, Prachi Mahapatra’s expertise is a shining example of Indian talent making a global impact. Her story is a reminder that with hard work, determination, and a passion for excellence, even the most impossible dreams can become a reality. As we celebrate Prachi’s achievements, we are reminded that the true strength of a nation lies in the talent and resilience of its people.
In a world where women are underrepresented in STEM fields, Prachi Mahapatra’s journey is a powerful reminder that talent knows no gender. Her story will inspire countless young women to pursue careers in tech, breaking down barriers and shattering glass ceilings along the way. As we look to the future, Prachi’s legacy will continue to inspire, motivating a new generation of Indians to strive for excellence and make their mark on the world.
