Rooted in Rhythm: Anitha Manoharan’s Journey Through Tech, Dance, & Leadership
It’s rare to meet someone who so effortlessly blends strength and softness—who carries deep expertise, creative energy, and genuine humility in equal measure. That’s exactly how I felt when I first connected with Anitha Manoharan.
With over two decades of experience in tech and product strategy, a Guinness World Record under her belt, and a Bharatanatyam solo recital on the horizon, Anitha’s story is anything but ordinary. She leads with heart, uplifts others with quiet confidence, and brings her full self—leader, mentor, artist—to everything she does. She embodies the kind of multidimensional brilliance I love to celebrate on Tech She Secures.
From our very first conversation, I knew she was someone whose journey needed to be shared. I’m so honored to share her voice, her story, and her presence with you.
Professional Journey & Leadership
You’ve had an incredible 20+ year journey in tech, product management, and now in talent development. Tell us how you got into this career and what have been some defining moments in your career?
When I think about defining moments in my career, what stands out the most are the times I said “yes” — even when the path ahead wasn’t clear.
It all began with a Computer Science Engineering degree from the University of Madras and my first job at Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) as a mainframe developer. A simple moment — filling in for a sick colleague — became a turning point. That experience opened the door to business analysis and taught me a lesson that has stayed with me: true growth happens when you’re willing to step out of your comfort zone.
Later, when I transitioned into product management, our small team could have just done what was asked of us. Instead, we chose to reimagine what collaboration could look like for the entire company. It wasn’t always easy — change never is — but it reinforced something I believe deeply: the perfect opportunity rarely just shows up. You have to seize the moment you’re in. Luck favors the bold.
In 2016, another defining moment came not from work itself, but from the people around me. After a family trip to India, visa delays kept me and my young son stranded for weeks while my husband and older child returned to the U.S. I called my manager, anxious and unsure. She didn’t press for details — she simply told me, “Focus on your family. We’ll figure it out.” That act of empathy left a lasting mark on me. It showed me that true leadership isn’t just about driving results — it’s about showing up for people when they need it most.
In late 2019, I made the decision to pursue my MBA, not knowing the world was about to change so dramatically. When the pandemic hit in early 2020, I suddenly found myself juggling coursework, full-time work, and family life in the middle of unprecedented uncertainty. It wasn’t easy — there were days when everything felt overwhelming — but it became one of the most transformational periods of my journey. The experience taught me resilience, sharpened my time management skills, and reminded me to keep my eyes fixed on my long-term goals, even when the day-to-day felt unpredictable. Graduating in 2021 felt like more than just earning a degree; it felt like proof that persistence pays off.
And in 2023, after a mentoring session and a pivotal conversation with a senior leader, I took yet another leap — stepping into Talent Development at HCA Healthcare. Thanks to a culture that truly invests in its people, I found a new purpose: helping others grow, thrive, and find their own defining moments.
Every step, every unexpected twist, and every challenge has shaped who I am as a leader today. And if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: The defining moments aren’t the ones you plan for. They’re the ones you embrace — with courage, with heart, and with hope.
Tell us about the BADdest challenge you’ve faced — the Boldest, most Authentic, and Driven moment in your career or personal journey. How did it shape your outlook and leadership style?
One of the boldest challenges in my career was leading the rollout of an enterprise-wide collaboration platform. It wasn’t just about technology — it was about connecting people in ways that really mattered.
At first, there was resistance. But when Hurricane Harvey, Irma, and later COVID-19 hit, that platform became a lifeline. I’ll never forget a nurse’s note thanking us — sharing how an isolated grandfather was able to speak with his family one last time because of the tools we put in place. That moment changed me. It showed me that even when we aren’t on the frontlines, we are only one degree away from making a real difference.
Leading through those times taught me to be resourceful, to lead with empathy, and to always put people first. It shaped my leadership style into what it is today: servant leadership rooted in purpose and positivity.
But I know for sure — you don’t do this alone. In my personal journey, I’ve been incredibly lucky to have a strong support system: my parents, my sisters, my husband, and my children. They are my personal cheering squad, lifting me up and encouraging me every single day. I talk to my parents and sisters daily, and my husband truly is my better half. Without their constant support, it would be hard to achieve any of this. It really does take a village — and I’m deeply grateful for mine.
I live by Maya Angelou’s words: “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” I carry that with me every day — staying positive, focusing on small wins, and trying to make every interaction meaningful. Because sometimes, it’s those small moments that create the biggest impact.
You’ve worn many hats—tech strategist, leader, mentor, artist. What’s one title or identity you claim that people might not expect?
One title that might surprise people is that I’m actually a bit of a mimicry artist — at least at home! I have this quirky talent for mimicking voices and doing impressions, and it’s something my family loves. It’s my way of keeping things light, fun, and a little unexpected when I’m off the clock.
And here’s a fun fact I’m proud of: I’m a Guinness World Record holder! I had the incredible opportunity to participate in the largest Tamil folk dance lesson and performance at the Rosemont Theatre in Chicago in May 2024. It was an amazing reminder that when we embrace different sides of ourselves — creative, cultural, personal — it only makes us stronger and more connected in every part of our lives.
How would you describe your leadership style, and what principles or values have shaped it over the years?
I would describe my leadership style as servant leadership at its core. Over the years, I’ve learned that when you focus on supporting and empowering others, amazing things happen — not just for individuals, but for the whole team. When you lead with authenticity and empathy, you create a space where people feel valued, heard, and inspired to do their best work. It’s the simple, human things that make all the difference. Over time, you don’t just build strong teams — you build something lasting and meaningful.
On a personal level, my values have always been shaped by the lessons my parents lived every day: lead with good intentions, own your mistakes, and stay grounded in who you are. I firmly believe in karma — that what you put into the world finds its way back to you. I’ve learned that true success isn’t about becoming something you’re not; it’s about standing strong in your values while continuing to grow. Those beliefs have been my compass through every step of my leadership journey — and they’re the lessons I hope to pass on to my children as well.
Empowerment & Representation
You’ve been a passionate advocate for empowering others and creating opportunities. What are some of the initiatives or efforts you’re most proud of?
One of the things I’m most passionate about is helping people step out of their comfort zones and discover what they’re truly capable of. I’ve been lucky to be part of the Talent Development team, which has given me a unique platform to create initiatives that open new doors for others. One project I’m especially proud of is launching our Virtual Job Shadowing program. It gives people a chance to explore different roles they might not have had visibility into before — sparking their curiosity and helping them see new possibilities for their future.
Beyond that, I work closely with leaders to help them prioritize learning and development for their teams, making career growth a real, tangible goal rather than just a buzzword. It’s so rewarding to see someone realize their own potential and take steps toward something they once thought was out of reach. Empowering others to grow and chase new opportunities is truly one of the best parts of what I do.
What’s a moment in your journey where you felt like you were rewriting the rules—for yourself or for others?
For a long time, women leaders have been boxed into impossible expectations. If you’re direct, you’re called aggressive. If you’re kind, you’re seen as weak. I decided early on that I wasn’t going to let those labels define me. I believed I could be direct without being pushy, and kind without being seen as weak. I chose to lead with calmness, clarity, and purpose — and in doing so, I feel like I’ve rewritten the rules for myself, and hopefully for others too.
When I walk into a room, my goal isn’t to “win” — it’s to build something better, together. I want to be seen as a leader who is here for the mission, for the team, and for the bigger picture.
What advice would you give to women—especially women of color—who are entering the tech industry today?
My advice? Be curious. Don’t hold back.
Ask the questions — even the ones you think might sound “basic.” Be endlessly curious. In tech, curiosity is your superpower. It’s how you grow, how you find new opportunities, and how you stay ahead in an ever-changing industry.
Network like your future depends on it — because it does. Build your circle, lean on others, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. None of us are meant to do this alone. Seeking knowledge, seeking mentors, and seeking community isn’t a weakness — it’s a strategy.
And when feedback comes your way — accept it positively. Feedback is a gift. Sometimes it’s uncomfortable, but it’s how you stretch, how you sharpen your skills, and how you step into your next level.
Most importantly, trust that you belong. You deserve to be in every room you walk into. Bring your full self, take up space, and remember: the industry needs your voice, your ideas, and your leadership — exactly as you are.
Personal Passions, Creativity & Wellbeing
I know you’re a trained Indian classical dancer—and I have to say, the videos I’ve seen of you are amazing. Your expressions are so powerful! Tell us about your journey with dance.
Thank you!
As a child, I was always drawn to dancing — it’s hard not to be when you grow up watching Indian movies filled with vibrant songs and dances! But I never had the opportunity to formally learn dance when I was younger.
Fast forward to 2017 — I was talking with my husband about how learning dance had always been a dream I never pursued. He encouraged me not to let it stay a “what if” and pushed me to finally take that step. Honestly, I was skeptical at first — worried about time management, fitness, and whether I was starting too late. But with encouragement from my husband and my sister, I enrolled in Bharatanatyam lessons, and it truly changed my life.
Dancing has given me a new sense of energy and opened my mind to endless possibilities — it made me realize that age is just a number. Through Bharatanatyam, one of the oldest classical dance forms that originated in Tamil Nadu, India, I’ve found not just a creative outlet but a spiritual experience. Every time I dance, I feel powerful, graceful, and connected to something bigger than myself.
How has dance influenced your work in tech, leadership, or communication?
Dance has had a profound impact on my work in tech, leadership, and communication in ways I never expected. In dance, every movement has a purpose, and similarly, in tech and leadership, every action, decision, or interaction should be intentional. It’s about aligning purpose with execution, and ensuring that all the “moves”, whether on stage or in the workplace, create harmony.
In leadership, dance has helped me embrace empathy and emotional intelligence. The expressive nature of dance has strengthened my ability to connect with others, to listen, and to understand the feelings and perspectives of my team. Just like dance requires collaboration with a group to create a cohesive performance, leadership requires working with and empowering others to achieve shared goals.
Finally, dance has improved my communication, both verbal and non-verbal. It’s taught me the power of body language, energy, and timing — all of which play a critical role in how we communicate in the workplace.
In essence, dance has given me the tools to lead with confidence, communicate with impact, and approach challenges with creativity and grace. It’s a practice that constantly reminds me to stay grounded, focused, and authentic — qualities that are essential both on stage and in the workplace.
What does your dance practice look like today? How do you stay connected to it alongside a demanding career?
My dance practice today involves weekly lessons, and in preparation for my solo recital (Arangetram) this July, something I once thought was beyond my reach, I’ve started taking additional lessons and practicing every day to build my stamina. Yes, I’m nervous, but I’m also incredibly hopeful and excited. One thing I’ve learned through this journey is that it’s never too late to chase your passion. No matter when you start, pursuing something you love can truly transform your life.
People often ask me how I manage to balance everything with just 24 hours in a day! It’s all about prioritizing — work, family, and personal time. It energizes me, helps me perform better in all aspects of my life, and reminds me that realizing your potential is about more than just your career. Work, social life, and personal growth all offer different but equally important opportunities for fulfillment. My goal is simple — to live life to the fullest, pursue what truly matters, and bring happiness to others along the way.
What does creativity mean to you, and how do you nurture it—both at work and in your personal life?
Creativity, to me, is the lens through which we solve problems, see opportunities, and make connections. It’s an essential part of everything we do whether at work, in relationships, or in everyday life. Creativity allows us to see beauty and potential in the world around us. It helps us find meaning in challenges and solutions, and it’s what keeps us motivated to keep moving forward. As human beings, creativity is at the core of who we are. It’s what drives innovation, fosters deep connections, and enables us to create something new from what we already have.
At work, creativity is often about solving problems in unexpected ways, and I truly believe that every challenge holds the seed of something beautiful. Whether I’m designing a presentation that tells a compelling story or brainstorming a tech solution, I find joy in creatively communicating complex ideas and making them accessible and engaging.
In my personal life, I also embrace creativity in its simplest forms—seeing beauty in the everyday, whether it’s in a conversation, in nature, or even in a dance movement. It’s about finding inspiration everywhere, and that keeps me grounded and connected to both my passions and my purpose. Creativity isn’t just about big ideas—it’s about how you approach the world and recognize its endless possibilities.
Reflections & Future
What does power mean to you today, and how has that evolved?
To me, power today means the ability to uplift others and create meaningful impact, not just through titles or authority, but through empathy, creativity, and connection. Earlier in my career, like many people, I probably thought of power as having influence or being in charge. But over time, I’ve realized true power is much quieter and much deeper — it’s about how you make people feel, how you open doors for others, and how you bring out the best in those around you.
In my journey, I’ve learned that power isn’t about controlling outcomes — It’s knowing that every interaction you have, whether at work or in your personal life, holds the potential to leave someone a little stronger, a little more confident, and a little more seen.
If you could go back and give advice to your younger self, what would it be?
If I could go back and talk to my younger self, I would say: “Trust yourself more. It’s OK to not have everything figured out. You are far more capable than you think”.
What are you most excited about in the future—whether in your career or your personal life?
Right now, I’m excited about two big milestones — having started a new chapter in my career with Talent Development 6 months ago, and preparing for my solo dance recital (Arangetram) this July!
Both represent new beginnings for me in different ways: one is about helping others grow and thrive professionally, and the other is about pushing myself beyond what I once thought impossible. It’s a reminder that no matter where you are in life, there’s always room for new dreams, new challenges, and new moments of joy.
Closing Reflections
Anitha’s story reminds us that leadership isn’t about fitting into a mold—it’s about breaking it with heart, intention, and authenticity. Whether she’s launching enterprise platforms, mentoring future leaders, or preparing for her solo dance recital, she shows up with her whole self—and invites others to do the same.
In a world that often tells us how we should lead or who we should be, Anitha’s journey is a beautiful reminder that power lies in embracing who you truly are. Authenticity isn’t a side note in her story—it’s the main thread. And it’s transformational.
As she steps into this next chapter, I’ll be cheering her on—and I know I’ll continue learning from her and watching her shine.
Maliha
Disclaimer: The content on this blog and website reflects a combination of my personal experiences, perspectives, and insights, as well as interviews and contributions from other individuals. It does not represent the opinions, policies, or strategies of any organization I am currently affiliated with or have been affiliated with in the past. This platform serves as a personal space for sharing ideas, lessons learned, and meaningful reflections.
