Gratitude for Recognition – A Note from the Heart

There are times in life when time slows down, just enough to reflect on your journey, breathe, and smile for how far you’ve come. Receiving the ‘Emerging Leader’ recognition from SmartMark® has been one of those moments for me. And in this still moment, I feel nothing but deep gratitude.

I joined SmartMark® on 2 October 2023 as a software engineer, eager and curious to learn. At that time, I had no idea how significantly this experience would shape me—both professionally and personally.

On 2 September 2024, I was entrusted with the role of Manager, Customer Support and Software Development. This opportunity came with the honor and responsibility of leading a department, nurturing a team, and building something meaningful together.

Working with our CMD Mr. Dhiren Gupte Sir has truly been a leadership masterclass. To hold many roles with such uniqueness, assurance, and elegance, his forward-thinking approach, customer-centric vision, and profound leadership have taught me the true essence of purposeful guidance. Above all, he leads not only with direction but with heart, cultivating an environment where each individual feels valued and empowered.

With immense gratitude, I want to share that the journey hasn’t always been easy. Like any meaningful path, it came with its own share of challenges. Whether it was managing dual roles, making decisions under pressure, or transforming feedback into growth, each challenge shaped me. But under our CMD Sir’s guidance, I learned to believe in myself, to reflect before reacting, and to push past limitations. With every milestone, I found not just results, but growth.

My growth is a result of the constant trust, belief, and support I’ve received from my seniors. Their encouragement gave me the confidence to take ownership, explore, experiment, and evolve beyond what I thought was possible.

I am still learning. Every day brings new perspectives, new lessons, and new opportunities to excel further. This journey of learning and evolving is ongoing, and I look forward to growing even more, professionally and personally, under the continued mentorship of my seniors.

I have also been inspired and guided by Mr. Bharat Kokatnur Sir, whose practical wisdom and mentorship have transformed my approach to execution. From him, I learned the discipline of process, the importance of detail, and the strength of a result-oriented mindset. His ability to instill ownership within the team encouraged me to take full responsibility, not only for outcomes but also for learning, growth, and progress every single day.

Their commitment to excellence, readiness to face challenges, and spirit of collaboration have been the foundation of every achievement we’ve celebrated together. I am truly proud to lead such a passionate group of individuals, and I am grateful for their trust, ideas, and tireless effort. Every goal we’ve reached has been a reflection of our unity and shared purpose.

This ‘Emerging Leader’ recognition is not just a milestone—it is a reflection of the support, belief, and inspiration I have received from everyone around me. I am deeply grateful to be part of an organization like SmartMark®, where development is nurtured, excellence is celebrated, and values are lived every day.

To our CMD Mr. Dhiren Gupte Sir and Mr. Bharat Kokatnur Sir - thank you for your guidance and the lessons that continue to shape me. I am motivated and humbled to continue this journey under your leadership.

Aakansha Rathod

Manager- Customer Support & Product Development

SMARTMARK

April 10, 2025