Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Shubham Sanjay Shevade. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Shubham Sanjay Shevade, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today We’d love to hear from you about what you think Corporate America gets wrong in your industry and why it matters.
Corporate America often struggles to fully integrate and leverage the talents of Indian storytellers due to a range of systemic issues and misconceptions. Firstly, Indian immigrants face challenges in employment and career advancement. Factors like the non-recognition of qualifications and experience, language barriers, and discrimination contribute to this difficulty. The lack of diversity in workplaces and limited understanding of cultural differences often lead to feelings of exclusion, hampering professional growth for Indian storytellers
Read about it here – https://globalindiannetwork.com/indian-diaspora-in-the-usa-understanding-the-challenges-and-opportunities
Racial discrimination remains a significant challenge, with Indians facing stereotypes and prejudices. These negative experiences can impact their well-being, professional growth, and limit participation in the social and political spheres. The issue of political underrepresentation further exacerbates this, as it leads to limited political voice and influence, which could otherwise be beneficial in advocating for more inclusive policies and practices in Corporate America.
The concept of Asian Americans, including Indians, being viewed as a monolith also plays a part in this dynamic. This viewpoint obscures the diversity within this group and leads to generalizations that do not accurately represent the varied experiences and backgrounds of Indian storytellers. Additionally, while some Asian Americans, including Indians, are successful in high-wage technical fields, they are often underrepresented in senior management positions and experience significant income inequality. This can translate to limited opportunities for career advancement and recognition in their fields.
Here is an interesting insight – https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/diversity-and-inclusion/asian-american-workers-diverse-outcomes-and-hidden-challenges
The “model minority” stereotype is another factor that can be misleading. It often sets Asian Americans apart from the rest of society and is used divisively. This stereotype can overshadow the real and diverse challenges faced by Indian storytellers, including being seen as capable workers but not leaders. The perception of Asian Americans as perpetual foreigners, regardless of their actual history and contributions in the U.S., further contributes to their lower rates of professional advancement and underrepresentation at higher levels, even in fields where they are overrepresented.
In conclusion, Corporate America’s limited understanding and integration of Indian storytellers stem from a combination of factors including cultural misunderstandings, racial discrimination, stereotyping, and systemic barriers to career advancement. To address these challenges, Corporate America must recognize and actively work towards dismantling these barriers, fostering a more inclusive and diverse environment where the unique perspectives and talents of Indian storytellers can be fully realized and appreciated.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
Starting my career in Los Angeles, I dove headfirst into the world of storytelling through film and advertising. As a screenwriter and creative producer, I was part of both independent and ad films, constantly refining my skills in visual storytelling. My directorial debut, ‘The BIG Rant,’ was a game changer, earning recognition on platforms like Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV+. This opened doors to writing for premium brands and multinational Fortune 100 companies, allowing me to craft narratives that resonated not just in the US but also in the UK.
But my journey didn’t stop there. I ventured into the world of FinTech, using my storytelling skills as an advertising consultant and writer. This was where my engineering and technology background came into play, helping me to meld creativity with technical insight. This unique combination propelled growth for industry giants and added significant value.
My work, such as the film ‘A Trail Before Monsoon,’ which I produced and directed back in India, received a warm reception and is now available on various streaming platforms. This part of my journey was particularly meaningful, blending my roots with my professional aspirations.
Navigating through these transitions, from film to advertising and beyond, wasn’t always easy. There were financial uncertainties and the challenge of breaking stereotypes in an industry that often sees Indian professionals as a monolithic group, battling underrepresentation and cultural misconceptions. But through it all, storytelling remained my constant companion.
I share this story to inspire others who might be at a crossroads in their careers, especially those in creative fields. It’s a testament to the power of embracing your unique story and background, and how this can lead to unexpected, fulfilling career paths. Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker, a creative professional, or just someone exploring different career avenues, remember that your unique narrative is a strength. Embracing it can open doors you never thought possible.
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
My mission in my creative journey, though I’m just beginning to make my mark, is to tell stories that resonate on a deeply emotional level. I’m driven by the desire to translate my own experiences and emotions into narratives that evoke similar feelings in my audience. It’s not just about telling a story, but about ensuring these stories are genuine and emotionally rich. I aim to create content that not only engages but also genuinely connects with the audience, reflecting the myriad facets of human experience. This commitment to authenticity and emotional depth is what guides my path as an emerging storyteller.
Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?
As I navigate my way in the industry, my reputation is slowly being built on a foundation of sincerity, patience, and an understanding of effective storytelling. While I may not yet be widely known, I am dedicated to distinguishing compelling narratives from mediocre ones. This dedication to quality storytelling is gradually establishing me as someone who appreciates the subtleties of narrative crafting. My focus on staying true to the story’s essence and my ability to elevate good narratives are slowly gaining recognition. This growth in the market reflects my commitment to narrative excellence and my consistent efforts to deliver stories that not only capture attention but also resonate meaningfully with audiences.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.shubhamshevade.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shubhamshevade/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shubhamshevade/