Leading with Purpose: Rhea Sovani’s Fight for Equality in Media

Rhea Sovani’s journey is one of determination, passion, and resilience. At just 28, she is the Founder and CEO of Hype & Co., a thriving firm with clients across India and Singapore. But her path to success didn’t begin with an immediate leap into entrepreneurship; it started with humble beginnings as a journalism student.

Bani Thakur

While pursuing her studies, Rhea took on copywriting work and gained experience at an agency, where she learned the ins and outs of the industry. Her hard work and perseverance eventually paid off when she founded Hype & Co., turning her dream into reality. Reflecting on the moment she achieved this milestone, Rhea said, “It was such a beautiful feeling. When the dream you’ve been chasing finally comes true, you’re left with nothing but happy tears and a sense of accomplishment.”

When asked about the challenges women face in the media industry, Rhea was candid. She acknowledged that while women have made significant strides in the field, gender inequality remains a pressing issue. “The media industry plays a huge role in shaping stories and public opinion, yet it still struggles with gender equality. Women have made great progress and are a major part of the industry, but it can be challenging. You need to be dedicated and have a true passion for it to thrive.”

Rhea also shed light on the obstacles female journalists, producers, and media leaders often face. Despite their critical roles in shaping narratives, their abilities are frequently questioned or undervalued. “The push for gender equality in media isn’t just about visibility; it’s about being truly respected and appreciated for the work we do,” she emphasized.

Sharing her personal experiences, Rhea recalled instances where clients pressured her to lower her fees, underestimating the hard work and effort required to deliver high-quality results. She also faced wage discrimination, being paid less than male colleagues with similar experience. Moreover, during her time at a company, she noticed how workloads were unevenly distributed, with more tasks being assigned to her simply because she was a woman.

When asked about the impact of increased diversity behind the scenes—particularly in writing, directing, and producing—Rhea noted that having women in these roles significantly influences how women are portrayed in the media. “When women are involved in creating stories, they bring different perspectives, making female characters more realistic and well-rounded, especially in OTT platforms. This helps break old stereotypes and inspire viewers, leading to a more equal and fair media landscape.”

On how these stereotypes can be changed, Rhea firmly believes that the more women enter the industry and prove their capabilities, the more these stereotypes will diminish. Encouraging and supporting independent creators, who are often more open to breaking stereotypes, can also drive change.

As a final piece of advice to women entering the media industry, Rhea said, “Believe in yourself and your voice. The media world can be tough, but your perspective is valuable and needed. Don’t be afraid to share your ideas. Surround yourself with a strong network of people who support you. Be patient and consistent. Change doesn’t happen overnight, but every small step you take opens the door for future women in the industry. Always remember, your role helps shape the future of how women are seen in the media.”

Rhea Sovani’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of representation. Through her work and experiences, she continues to pave the way for more women to rise and thrive in the media world.