Akanksha S Gulia - Most Inspiring Leader Making A Difference In 2025
                     ISSN: 2998-8535
INDUSTRY INSIGHTS
The Evoluon of Strategic
Consulng in Banking
From Tradional Advisory
to AI-Driven Insights
INDUSTRY INSIGHTS
Driving Innovaon in
the Tradional MOST
Banking Sector
Open Banking
Iniaves
LEADER
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
IN 2025
Akanksha S Gulia
Senior Consultant 2
Deloie
AKANKSHA
S GULIA
www.insightssuccessmagazine.com Leading with Empathy in a Digital Age
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Redefining
Leadership,
Inspiring Change
n every era, there emerge individuals who redefine 
Iwhat leadership truly means—not through titles or power, but through purpose, action, and the ability to 
inspire others. As we step into 2025, the world continues to 
face evolving challenges that demand leaders who can 
combine vision with empathy, courage with resilience, and 
innovation with authenticity. It is in this spirit that Insights 
Success proudly present The Most Inspiring Leader 
Making a Difference in 2025, featuring the remarkable 
Akanksha S Gulia.
Akanksha’s journey is a testament to the transformative 
power of determination and conviction. Her work goes far 
beyond professional success; it reflects a deeper 
commitment to uplifting people, creating opportunities, 
and shaping environments where growth and inclusion 
flourish. At a time when many leaders focus solely on 
outcomes, she stands apart by focusing on impact 
—measured not just in milestones, but in lives touched and 
communities transformed.
Editorial This edition celebrates her vision and dedication, while also spotlighting the broader message she embodies: leadership is not about leading from the front alone, but about empowering others to rise with you. Her story is a -A laya Brown reminder that inspiration is contagious, and true leadership resonates across borders, industries, and generations.
As you explore the pages of this edition, we invite you to 
reflect on how leaders like Akanksha redefine success in 
today’s interconnected world. Their journeys encourage us 
to ask ourselves how we, too, can contribute to making a 
difference, however big or small.
Here’s to celebrating inspiration, resilience, and the 
extraordinary individuals shaping 2025 and beyond.
Happy Reading!
Redefining
Leadership,
Inspiring Change
n every era, there emerge individuals who redefine 
Iwhat leadership truly means—not through titles or power, but through purpose, action, and the ability to 
inspire others. As we step into 2025, the world continues to 
face evolving challenges that demand leaders who can 
combine vision with empathy, courage with resilience, and 
innovation with authenticity. It is in this spirit that Insights 
Success proudly present The Most Inspiring Leader 
Making a Difference in 2025, featuring the remarkable 
Akanksha S Gulia.
Akanksha’s journey is a testament to the transformative 
power of determination and conviction. Her work goes far 
beyond professional success; it reflects a deeper 
commitment to uplifting people, creating opportunities, 
and shaping environments where growth and inclusion 
flourish. At a time when many leaders focus solely on 
outcomes, she stands apart by focusing on impact 
—measured not just in milestones, but in lives touched and 
communities transformed.
Editorial This edition celebrates her vision and dedication, while also spotlighting the broader message she embodies: leadership is not about leading from the front alone, but about empowering others to rise with you. Her story is a -A laya Brown reminder that inspiration is contagious, and true leadership resonates across borders, industries, and generations.
As you explore the pages of this edition, we invite you to 
reflect on how leaders like Akanksha redefine success in 
today’s interconnected world. Their journeys encourage us 
to ask ourselves how we, too, can contribute to making a 
difference, however big or small.
Here’s to celebrating inspiration, resilience, and the 
extraordinary individuals shaping 2025 and beyond.
Happy Reading!
INDUSTRY INSIGHTS
THE SIGNATURE STORY
18 From Traditional Advisory to AI-Driven Insights08 Akanksha S Gulia The Evolution of Strategic Consulting in BankingLeading with Empathy in a Digital Age
INDUSTRY INSIGHTS
Open Banking Initiatives
Driving Innovation in the Traditional Banking Sector 22
INDUSTRY INSIGHTS
THE SIGNATURE STORY
18 From Traditional Advisory to AI-Driven Insights08 Akanksha S Gulia The Evolution of Strategic Consulting in BankingLeading with Empathy in a Digital Age
INDUSTRY INSIGHTS
Open Banking Initiatives
Driving Innovation in the Traditional Banking Sector 22
Editor-in-Chief   Merry D'Souza 
Managing Editor   Alaya Brown
Executive Editor   Eva Miller
Visualizer   Michael Warner
Art & Design Head   Donna Claus
Co-designer   Yasmin Nasser
Business Development Manager   Sherin Rodricks
Marketing Manager  Jenny Jordan
Business Development Executives   Reem Almasoud, Sheldon Miller
Digital Marketing Manager   Isabel Barnes
Technical Head   Phil Simon
Research Analyst   Helena Smith
Circulation Manager  Finn Wilson
[email protected]
August, 2025
Corporate Office
Insights Success Media Tech LLC
555 Metro Place North, Suite 100,
Dublin, OH 43017, United States
Phone - (614)-859-2600
Email: [email protected]
For Subscription: www.insightssuccessmagazine.com
Follow us on :      www.facebook.com/insightssuccess/ www.x.com/insightssuccess
We are also available on :
RNI No.: MAHENG/2018/75953
ISSN: 2998-8497
Copyright © 2025 Insights Success Media and Technology Pvt. Ltd., All rights reserved. The content and images used in this magazine 
should not be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, 
without prior permission from Insights Success. Reprint rights remain solely with Insights Success.
Editor-in-Chief   Merry D'Souza 
Managing Editor   Alaya Brown
Executive Editor   Eva Miller
Visualizer   Michael Warner
Art & Design Head   Donna Claus
Co-designer   Yasmin Nasser
Business Development Manager   Sherin Rodricks
Marketing Manager  Jenny Jordan
Business Development Executives   Reem Almasoud, Sheldon Miller
Digital Marketing Manager   Isabel Barnes
Technical Head   Phil Simon
Research Analyst   Helena Smith
Circulation Manager  Finn Wilson
[email protected]
August, 2025
Corporate Office
Insights Success Media Tech LLC
555 Metro Place North, Suite 100,
Dublin, OH 43017, United States
Phone - (614)-859-2600
Email: [email protected]
For Subscription: www.insightssuccessmagazine.com
Follow us on :      www.facebook.com/insightssuccess/ www.x.com/insightssuccess
We are also available on :
RNI No.: MAHENG/2018/75953
ISSN: 2998-8497
Copyright © 2025 Insights Success Media and Technology Pvt. Ltd., All rights reserved. The content and images used in this magazine 
should not be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, 
without prior permission from Insights Success. Reprint rights remain solely with Insights Success.
Most Transformational Leader Making an Impact in 2025
AKANKSHA
S GULIA
Leading with Empathy in a Digital Age
Senior Consultant 2
Deloitte
The Signature Story
Most Transformational Leader Making an Impact in 2025
AKANKSHA
S GULIA
Leading with Empathy in a Digital Age
Senior Consultant 2
Deloitte
The Signature Story
n a world where leadership is often measured by metrics and 
Ibenchmarks, Akanksha S. Gulia represents a different paradigm—one where courage, compassion, and intentional action are highly valued. 
Her journey began in Indian military camps, where the disciplined pace of 
life taught her to adapt, listen, and embrace differences from an early age. 
Challenges that might have become obstacles instead became her initial 
lessons in compassion, flexibility, and building strong interpersonal 
relationships. These formative experiences ultimately shaped her into a 
mentor for the next generation of leaders and a respected voice in the 
corporate world.
She is a story of twists and reinventions, continually transforming challenges 
into opportunities for growth, whether entering the field of architecture, 
reimagining design-driven innovation, navigating the uncertainty of a global 
pandemic, or contributing as part of Deloitte. Akanksha operationalizes her 
belief in leadership as service in her role as Senior Consultant 2 at Deloitte, 
fostering cultures where both individual and collective creativity can thrive. 
Her voice resonates with young people far beyond the corporate realm, 
inspiring them to lead with heart, courage, and curiosity. Rather than 
following well-trodden paths, Akanksha forges her own, measuring success 
by impact and integrity.
The Foundation: A Journey Rooted in Service
Akanksha’s story begins not in boardrooms or startup garages, but in the 
disciplined halls of military bases across India. Born into a family where 
three generations served in the Indian Defense forces, she absorbed the 
values of discipline and resilience as naturally as breathing. What truly sets 
her apart, however, is how she transformed these military virtues into a 
leadership philosophy grounded in empathy and human connection.
"My story is not one of straight lines”, her voice carrying the quiet 
confidence of someone who has navigated uncertainty and emerged stronger. 
“It is a tapestry woven from movement, service, and the quiet strength of 
family.” she reflects.
My appetite for business has never been 
about following a well-trodden path. It's 
about forging my own, fueled by 
curiosity and a desire to architect 
solutions that elevate human experience.
10 www.insightssuccessmagazine.com August 2025 11
n a world where leadership is often measured by metrics and 
Ibenchmarks, Akanksha S. Gulia represents a different paradigm—one where courage, compassion, and intentional action are highly valued. 
Her journey began in Indian military camps, where the disciplined pace of 
life taught her to adapt, listen, and embrace differences from an early age. 
Challenges that might have become obstacles instead became her initial 
lessons in compassion, flexibility, and building strong interpersonal 
relationships. These formative experiences ultimately shaped her into a 
mentor for the next generation of leaders and a respected voice in the 
corporate world.
She is a story of twists and reinventions, continually transforming challenges 
into opportunities for growth, whether entering the field of architecture, 
reimagining design-driven innovation, navigating the uncertainty of a global 
pandemic, or contributing as part of Deloitte. Akanksha operationalizes her 
belief in leadership as service in her role as Senior Consultant 2 at Deloitte, 
fostering cultures where both individual and collective creativity can thrive. 
Her voice resonates with young people far beyond the corporate realm, 
inspiring them to lead with heart, courage, and curiosity. Rather than 
following well-trodden paths, Akanksha forges her own, measuring success 
by impact and integrity.
The Foundation: A Journey Rooted in Service
Akanksha’s story begins not in boardrooms or startup garages, but in the 
disciplined halls of military bases across India. Born into a family where 
three generations served in the Indian Defense forces, she absorbed the 
values of discipline and resilience as naturally as breathing. What truly sets 
her apart, however, is how she transformed these military virtues into a 
leadership philosophy grounded in empathy and human connection.
"My story is not one of straight lines”, her voice carrying the quiet 
confidence of someone who has navigated uncertainty and emerged stronger. 
“It is a tapestry woven from movement, service, and the quiet strength of 
family.” she reflects.
My appetite for business has never been 
about following a well-trodden path. It's 
about forging my own, fueled by 
curiosity and a desire to architect 
solutions that elevate human experience.
10 www.insightssuccessmagazine.com August 2025 11
Her undergraduate years in architecture revealed a profound 
truth: every line drawn and every space imagined carries the 
potential to foster connection, dignity, and belonging. This 
realization sparked a fundamental question that would 
The pandemic taught me that become her professional compass: "What can I create that 
will uplift the lives of those around me?"
survival is not about waiting out 
the storm, but embracing This question propelled her beyond the traditional boundaries 
discomfort, nurturing of architecture into the dynamic realm of design thinking and 
user experience, blending creative vision with strategic 
relationships, and continuously clarity. As her understanding deepened, she began to see 
reinventing oneself. creativity and strategy not as opposing forces, but as partners 
in driving purpose, a philosophy that would later distinguish 
her leadership style in the corporate world.
Today, Akanksha leads with the conviction that every 
experience, every move, conversation, and challenge has 
prepared her to serve with empathy and purpose, one 
thoughtful action at a time.
The cadence of her childhood was set by the rhythm of 
change: new cities, new schools, and new faces, each an The Crucible: Pandemic Resilience and Professional 
invitation to listen, adapt, and embrace the unfamiliar. The Growth
constant relocations inherent in military life became her 
greatest teacher. Where others might have seen disruption, The COVID-19 pandemic presented Akanksha with perhaps 
young Akanksha discovered opportunity. This early exposure her greatest professional challenge yet. Having just 
to India's vast cultural landscape taught her to read the completed her master's degree in the United States, she found 
unspoken language of empathy, to value the wisdom in her herself at the threshold of her career just as the world seemed 
grandfather's story as much as the curiosity in a classmate's to pause overnight. Traditional pathways to growth were 
question. suddenly obscured, but rather than retreat, she chose to 
reimagine her approach entirely.
From the rush of cross-country running to the precision of 
piano (earning recognition from the Royal School of Music, "The pandemic taught me that survival is not about waiting 
London), from the discipline of achieving a blue belt in karate out the storm, but embracing discomfort, nurturing 
to representing her heritage through cultural dance for relationships, and continuously reinventing oneself." she 
Foreign Naval delegations, Akanksha’s formative years were reflects. Her strategy was elegantly simple yet powerfully 
a masterclass in versatility. Her state rank of 11th in Science effective: invest in growth, embrace uncertainty as a catalyst, 
and Maths Olympiads in 2005 showcased her academic and build genuine connections.
prowess, while her athletic achievements demonstrated the 
physical and mental fortitude that would later define her She immersed herself in upskilling, taking on internships, 
professional approach. remote projects, and certifications that kept her attuned to 
evolving industry trends. When she joined Deloitte in 2022, 
The Pivot: From Architecture to Human-Centered onboarding remotely presented another layer of complexity. 
Innovation Yet it was here that she discovered the transformative power 
of intentional connections in a digital age.
Originally drawn to architecture, Akanksha discovered that 
her true calling lay not just in designing physical spaces, but in One moment particularly stands out in her memory: during a 
creating environments where human dignity and connection virtual team meeting, her colleagues surprised her with a 
could flourish. "I realized that spaces could be vessels for welcome note and stories about their own journeys, making 
dignity and connection," she explains, describing the moment her feel instantly at home despite physical distance. That 
when her career trajectory took its first significant turn. simple gesture reminded her that empathy and connection 
transcend screens, and that authentic relationships can 
flourish even in a hybrid world.
12 www.insightssuccessmagazine.com August 2025 13
Her undergraduate years in architecture revealed a profound 
truth: every line drawn and every space imagined carries the 
potential to foster connection, dignity, and belonging. This 
realization sparked a fundamental question that would 
The pandemic taught me that become her professional compass: "What can I create that 
will uplift the lives of those around me?"
survival is not about waiting out 
the storm, but embracing This question propelled her beyond the traditional boundaries 
discomfort, nurturing of architecture into the dynamic realm of design thinking and 
user experience, blending creative vision with strategic 
relationships, and continuously clarity. As her understanding deepened, she began to see 
reinventing oneself. creativity and strategy not as opposing forces, but as partners 
in driving purpose, a philosophy that would later distinguish 
her leadership style in the corporate world.
Today, Akanksha leads with the conviction that every 
experience, every move, conversation, and challenge has 
prepared her to serve with empathy and purpose, one 
thoughtful action at a time.
The cadence of her childhood was set by the rhythm of 
change: new cities, new schools, and new faces, each an The Crucible: Pandemic Resilience and Professional 
invitation to listen, adapt, and embrace the unfamiliar. The Growth
constant relocations inherent in military life became her 
greatest teacher. Where others might have seen disruption, The COVID-19 pandemic presented Akanksha with perhaps 
young Akanksha discovered opportunity. This early exposure her greatest professional challenge yet. Having just 
to India's vast cultural landscape taught her to read the completed her master's degree in the United States, she found 
unspoken language of empathy, to value the wisdom in her herself at the threshold of her career just as the world seemed 
grandfather's story as much as the curiosity in a classmate's to pause overnight. Traditional pathways to growth were 
question. suddenly obscured, but rather than retreat, she chose to 
reimagine her approach entirely.
From the rush of cross-country running to the precision of 
piano (earning recognition from the Royal School of Music, "The pandemic taught me that survival is not about waiting 
London), from the discipline of achieving a blue belt in karate out the storm, but embracing discomfort, nurturing 
to representing her heritage through cultural dance for relationships, and continuously reinventing oneself." she 
Foreign Naval delegations, Akanksha’s formative years were reflects. Her strategy was elegantly simple yet powerfully 
a masterclass in versatility. Her state rank of 11th in Science effective: invest in growth, embrace uncertainty as a catalyst, 
and Maths Olympiads in 2005 showcased her academic and build genuine connections.
prowess, while her athletic achievements demonstrated the 
physical and mental fortitude that would later define her She immersed herself in upskilling, taking on internships, 
professional approach. remote projects, and certifications that kept her attuned to 
evolving industry trends. When she joined Deloitte in 2022, 
The Pivot: From Architecture to Human-Centered onboarding remotely presented another layer of complexity. 
Innovation Yet it was here that she discovered the transformative power 
of intentional connections in a digital age.
Originally drawn to architecture, Akanksha discovered that 
her true calling lay not just in designing physical spaces, but in One moment particularly stands out in her memory: during a 
creating environments where human dignity and connection virtual team meeting, her colleagues surprised her with a 
could flourish. "I realized that spaces could be vessels for welcome note and stories about their own journeys, making 
dignity and connection," she explains, describing the moment her feel instantly at home despite physical distance. That 
when her career trajectory took its first significant turn. simple gesture reminded her that empathy and connection 
transcend screens, and that authentic relationships can 
flourish even in a hybrid world.
12 www.insightssuccessmagazine.com August 2025 13
Recognition: Excellence in Banking and Capital Markets She learned that proximity isn't the only measure of closeness, 
demonstrating how modern leaders can maintain meaningful 
Akanksha's commitment to human-centered leadership found relationships across geographical boundaries.
its ultimate expression in her work at Deloitte, where she 
specializes in Banking and Capital Markets. Her approach My story is not one of straight Learning Edge: Growth Through Vulnerability
blending creative vision with strategic rigor while lines”, her voice carrying the 
consistently placing people at the heart of progress has Akanksha's willingness to acknowledge her growth areas sets 
yielded remarkable results. quiet confidence of someone who her apart in a business culture often resistant to showing 
has navigated uncertainty and vulnerability. She openly discusses her tendency to take on 
In January 2025, she was honored with the prestigious 'Our emerged stronger. “It is a tapestry too much out of enthusiasm and desire to contribute traits that 
Finest Hour' Award for exceptional contributions in the initially led to overextension but ultimately taught her the 
Banking and Capital Markets industry. This recognition woven from movement, service, value of strategic focus.
represents more than individual achievement; it reflects the and the quiet strength of family.
collaborative impact she strives for on every project. "Sometimes I juggled multiple projects, believing I could 
manage it all, only to realize the importance of setting 
"I remember walking into my first team meeting, surrounded boundaries and prioritizing what truly matters." she admits. 
by experts who spoke a different professional language. This experience taught her the courage to say 'no' when 
Instead of retreating, I leaned in, listening, asking questions, necessary, ensuring her energy is invested where it can make 
and embracing the discomfort of being a beginner again." she the most significant difference.
recalls about her entry into an unfamiliar sector. This 
willingness to be vulnerable while maintaining confidence This approach to learning and growth reflects her broader 
has become a hallmark of her leadership style. philosophy that the best business leaders remain students of 
the world open to new ideas, unafraid to challenge the status 
Her recent recognition among the top 10 participants in quo, and grounded in empathy.
Deloitte's Spring Challenge, where she ran 70 miles, 
demonstrates how she applies the same dedication and The Vision: Inspiring Future Leaders
resilience that marked her early athletic achievements to her 
current professional endeavors. For aspiring leaders, she offers wisdom distilled from her 
multifaceted journey: "Lead not to command, but to cultivate 
The Philosophy: Leadership as Service collective brilliance." Her advice emphasizes authentic 
connections over hierarchies, lifelong curiosity as a strategic Her story serves as a powerful reminder that in an age of 
What distinguishes Akanksha in today's leadership landscape imperative, and the balance of bold vision with measured artificial intelligence and automation, the most valuable 
is her fundamental belief that authentic leadership sparks resilience. leadership skill remains profoundly human: the ability to 
positive change not just in strategy meetings, but in the hearts connect, inspire, and elevate others. Through her 
and lives of people. As a human-centered leader specializing "In an era where disruption is the norm, harness creative commitment to championing others to rise alongside her, 
in strategy while prioritizing people, she creates adaptability as your greatest ally," she counsels, drawing Akanksha is not just achieving professional success, she's 
environments where individuals thrive and collective purpose from her experience navigating high-stakes transformations. redefining what success means in the modern business 
fuels progress. "View challenges as canvases for innovation, pivoting with landscape.
agility while anchoring decisions in the well-being of your 
"My appetite for business has never been about following a teams." "Success is not a destination, it is the impact you create 
well-trodden path. It's about forging my own, fueled by through each purposeful action you take." she concludes, 
curiosity and a desire to architect solutions that elevate The Legacy: Impact Beyond Metrics embodying a philosophy that promises to influence leaders 
human experience." she explains. This philosophy drives her and organizations for generations to come.
to see business as a platform to amplify impact, inspire As Akanksha continues to shape the future of human-centered 
courage, and leave a legacy of meaningful change. leadership, her message resonates with relevance in our In Akanksha S Gulia, we see not just a leader for our times, but 
increasingly digital world. "Real growth begins at the edge of an architect of the leadership paradigm our future demands 
Her approach to balancing professional demands with comfort where curiosity dares to meet uncertainty." she one where empathy drives strategy, where human connection 
personal relationships offers a masterclass in intentional reflects on her journey from military beginnings to corporate fuels innovation, and where authentic leadership creates 
living. Despite the physical distance her career has sometimes boardrooms. lasting positive change in an interconnected world.
required, she maintains daily video calls with family and 
connects with her extended family every fortnight.
14 www.insightssuccessmagazine.com August 2025 15
Recognition: Excellence in Banking and Capital Markets She learned that proximity isn't the only measure of closeness, 
demonstrating how modern leaders can maintain meaningful 
Akanksha's commitment to human-centered leadership found relationships across geographical boundaries.
its ultimate expression in her work at Deloitte, where she 
specializes in Banking and Capital Markets. Her approach My story is not one of straight Learning Edge: Growth Through Vulnerability
blending creative vision with strategic rigor while lines”, her voice carrying the 
consistently placing people at the heart of progress has Akanksha's willingness to acknowledge her growth areas sets 
yielded remarkable results. quiet confidence of someone who her apart in a business culture often resistant to showing 
has navigated uncertainty and vulnerability. She openly discusses her tendency to take on 
In January 2025, she was honored with the prestigious 'Our emerged stronger. “It is a tapestry too much out of enthusiasm and desire to contribute traits that 
Finest Hour' Award for exceptional contributions in the initially led to overextension but ultimately taught her the 
Banking and Capital Markets industry. This recognition woven from movement, service, value of strategic focus.
represents more than individual achievement; it reflects the and the quiet strength of family.
collaborative impact she strives for on every project. "Sometimes I juggled multiple projects, believing I could 
manage it all, only to realize the importance of setting 
"I remember walking into my first team meeting, surrounded boundaries and prioritizing what truly matters." she admits. 
by experts who spoke a different professional language. This experience taught her the courage to say 'no' when 
Instead of retreating, I leaned in, listening, asking questions, necessary, ensuring her energy is invested where it can make 
and embracing the discomfort of being a beginner again." she the most significant difference.
recalls about her entry into an unfamiliar sector. This 
willingness to be vulnerable while maintaining confidence This approach to learning and growth reflects her broader 
has become a hallmark of her leadership style. philosophy that the best business leaders remain students of 
the world open to new ideas, unafraid to challenge the status 
Her recent recognition among the top 10 participants in quo, and grounded in empathy.
Deloitte's Spring Challenge, where she ran 70 miles, 
demonstrates how she applies the same dedication and The Vision: Inspiring Future Leaders
resilience that marked her early athletic achievements to her 
current professional endeavors. For aspiring leaders, she offers wisdom distilled from her 
multifaceted journey: "Lead not to command, but to cultivate 
The Philosophy: Leadership as Service collective brilliance." Her advice emphasizes authentic 
connections over hierarchies, lifelong curiosity as a strategic Her story serves as a powerful reminder that in an age of 
What distinguishes Akanksha in today's leadership landscape imperative, and the balance of bold vision with measured artificial intelligence and automation, the most valuable 
is her fundamental belief that authentic leadership sparks resilience. leadership skill remains profoundly human: the ability to 
positive change not just in strategy meetings, but in the hearts connect, inspire, and elevate others. Through her 
and lives of people. As a human-centered leader specializing "In an era where disruption is the norm, harness creative commitment to championing others to rise alongside her, 
in strategy while prioritizing people, she creates adaptability as your greatest ally," she counsels, drawing Akanksha is not just achieving professional success, she's 
environments where individuals thrive and collective purpose from her experience navigating high-stakes transformations. redefining what success means in the modern business 
fuels progress. "View challenges as canvases for innovation, pivoting with landscape.
agility while anchoring decisions in the well-being of your 
"My appetite for business has never been about following a teams." "Success is not a destination, it is the impact you create 
well-trodden path. It's about forging my own, fueled by through each purposeful action you take." she concludes, 
curiosity and a desire to architect solutions that elevate The Legacy: Impact Beyond Metrics embodying a philosophy that promises to influence leaders 
human experience." she explains. This philosophy drives her and organizations for generations to come.
to see business as a platform to amplify impact, inspire As Akanksha continues to shape the future of human-centered 
courage, and leave a legacy of meaningful change. leadership, her message resonates with relevance in our In Akanksha S Gulia, we see not just a leader for our times, but 
increasingly digital world. "Real growth begins at the edge of an architect of the leadership paradigm our future demands 
Her approach to balancing professional demands with comfort where curiosity dares to meet uncertainty." she one where empathy drives strategy, where human connection 
personal relationships offers a masterclass in intentional reflects on her journey from military beginnings to corporate fuels innovation, and where authentic leadership creates 
living. Despite the physical distance her career has sometimes boardrooms. lasting positive change in an interconnected world.
required, she maintains daily video calls with family and 
connects with her extended family every fortnight.
14 www.insightssuccessmagazine.com August 2025 15


From Traditional Advisory to AI-Driven Insights
This was a period when consulting companies also diversified substituting human expertise with AI but in using the two for 
their staff. They were followed by technology, analysis, and equilibrium and decision-making synergies.
economics specialists, marking the slow merging of old 
advisory with new capabilities. Technology-assisted Emerging Trends Shaping the Future
solutions may still have depended on human interpretation, 
but consulting started making incursions onto technology- Banking strategic consulting will further change in the future 
based platforms. as a response to emerging drivers of the finance industry. ESG 
goals and sustainability are taking center stage in banking 
The AI Revolution: Data-Driven Consulting Comes into strategy, and there is growing pressure on consultants to 
Its Own integrate them into institutional infrastructure. Fintech 
collaborations and open banking are creating new 
The new times envision a revolutionary shift. Artificial possibilities, and customers need advice on how to create 
intelligence, machine learning, and predictive analytics are a partner-centric and customer-centric ecosystems.
part of contemporary consulting practices that cannot be 
separated. Banking strategic consulting is not gazing at the Cyber security is also among the fields in which consulting 
past in the present; it's looking into the future and prescribing has expanded significantly, as online payment exposes banks 
actionable strategies. to increasing threats. As much as hyper-personalization of 
banking products—through the use of AI—is about being 
AI has enabled consultants to predict the customers' behavior delicate in advising how to balance innovation and anonymity 
with accuracy, enabling banks to create products and services of clients, the dynamic global regulatory environment at the 
tailored to them. AI has revolutionized risk management same time also means that consultants will be crucial in 
through detection of fraud patterns in real time and enhancing assisting banks to change at a fast pace without jeopardizing 
credit assessment accuracy. Operations have also gained as competitiveness.
automation discourages human error and accelerates process, 
and AI-driven compliance solutions enable institutions to Conclusion
make real-time adjustments in line with constantly evolving 
rules. The evolution of banking strategic consulting is finally one of 
resilience and adaptability. From its inception in human, 
he banking sector has historically been founded on institutional knowledge and benchmarking best practice 
T The consultant's function has evolved from that of an analyst relationship-based advisory, it has evolved as an evidence-vision, confidence, and accuracy. Banks used to across institutions. in hindsight to one of translating advanced observations from driven, AI-facilitated practice with sharper analysis and heavily depend on expert consultants to handle data, enabling banks to create plans that are scalable as well as foresight. It does not leave behind the human factor, though, 
intricate issues like compliance with regulatory matters, risk During this time, the major emphasis was on compliance with future-proof. as it must ensure that decisions are not just effective but 
governance, customer maintenance, and market growth. In regulations, efficiency in operations, and expansion planning. ethical, feasible, and committed to the institution's greater 
recent times, however, the needs of an interdependent The consultants would guide the banks to new markets, The Human Touch in a Technology-Driven World purpose.
economy, as well as innovative technology, have altered the streamline in-house operations, and achieve compliance with 
role of consultants. intricate regulations. This classic model placed human Despite the fast pace of AI adoption, the human touch of bank As banks are faced with the challenges of tomorrow—digital 
experience at the forefront of decision-making, with hardly strategic consulting cannot be replaced. Machines can disruption to sustainability—strategic consulting will be the 
Banking strategic consulting today has changed from the any technology involvement. identify patterns and recommend outcomes, but human key catalyst, driving the industry to resilience, innovation, 
conventional advisory models to a highly data-dependent, AI- consultants provide judgment, emotional intelligence, and and sustained growth.
driven profession that enables institutions to take quicker and Globalization and the First Signs of Transformation contextual awareness. For instance, in times of geopolitical 
more informed decisions. conflict or economic pressures, experienced consultants are 
With banking opening up local confines and onto the global able to consider cultural,  ethical,  and emotional 
Conventional Advisory: Banking's Early Dependence on stage, consulting's horizon also widened. Banks started considerations that computers cannot.
Human Acumen dealing with international competition, technology 
disruption, and better-educated customers. Consultants Trust  i s  l ikewise  the  fundamental  p i l lar  of  the 
In its formative years, banking strategy consulting was the reformed their practice, integrating market intelligence and consultant–bank relationship. Banks continue to appreciate 
domain of personal contact and reasoned judgment. technology-driven analysis to remain relevant. Strategic consultants who can take AI-produced reports and formulate 
Consultants were close advisors and dear friends of top consulting in banking slowly evolved from being so-called actionable strategies aligned with their long-term objectives. 
executives, poring over balance sheets, evaluating risk, and compliance work to guidance on digitalization, customer- To a large extent, the future of consulting does not reside in 
writing long reports. Their worth lay in decades of driven models, and high-ticket mergers and acquisitions.
18 www.insightssuccessmagazine.com August 2025 19
From Traditional Advisory to AI-Driven Insights
This was a period when consulting companies also diversified substituting human expertise with AI but in using the two for 
their staff. They were followed by technology, analysis, and equilibrium and decision-making synergies.
economics specialists, marking the slow merging of old 
advisory with new capabilities. Technology-assisted Emerging Trends Shaping the Future
solutions may still have depended on human interpretation, 
but consulting started making incursions onto technology- Banking strategic consulting will further change in the future 
based platforms. as a response to emerging drivers of the finance industry. ESG 
goals and sustainability are taking center stage in banking 
The AI Revolution: Data-Driven Consulting Comes into strategy, and there is growing pressure on consultants to 
Its Own integrate them into institutional infrastructure. Fintech 
collaborations and open banking are creating new 
The new times envision a revolutionary shift. Artificial possibilities, and customers need advice on how to create 
intelligence, machine learning, and predictive analytics are a partner-centric and customer-centric ecosystems.
part of contemporary consulting practices that cannot be 
separated. Banking strategic consulting is not gazing at the Cyber security is also among the fields in which consulting 
past in the present; it's looking into the future and prescribing has expanded significantly, as online payment exposes banks 
actionable strategies. to increasing threats. As much as hyper-personalization of 
banking products—through the use of AI—is about being 
AI has enabled consultants to predict the customers' behavior delicate in advising how to balance innovation and anonymity 
with accuracy, enabling banks to create products and services of clients, the dynamic global regulatory environment at the 
tailored to them. AI has revolutionized risk management same time also means that consultants will be crucial in 
through detection of fraud patterns in real time and enhancing assisting banks to change at a fast pace without jeopardizing 
credit assessment accuracy. Operations have also gained as competitiveness.
automation discourages human error and accelerates process, 
and AI-driven compliance solutions enable institutions to Conclusion
make real-time adjustments in line with constantly evolving 
rules. The evolution of banking strategic consulting is finally one of 
resilience and adaptability. From its inception in human, 
he banking sector has historically been founded on institutional knowledge and benchmarking best practice 
T The consultant's function has evolved from that of an analyst relationship-based advisory, it has evolved as an evidence-vision, confidence, and accuracy. Banks used to across institutions. in hindsight to one of translating advanced observations from driven, AI-facilitated practice with sharper analysis and heavily depend on expert consultants to handle data, enabling banks to create plans that are scalable as well as foresight. It does not leave behind the human factor, though, 
intricate issues like compliance with regulatory matters, risk During this time, the major emphasis was on compliance with future-proof. as it must ensure that decisions are not just effective but 
governance, customer maintenance, and market growth. In regulations, efficiency in operations, and expansion planning. ethical, feasible, and committed to the institution's greater 
recent times, however, the needs of an interdependent The consultants would guide the banks to new markets, The Human Touch in a Technology-Driven World purpose.
economy, as well as innovative technology, have altered the streamline in-house operations, and achieve compliance with 
role of consultants. intricate regulations. This classic model placed human Despite the fast pace of AI adoption, the human touch of bank As banks are faced with the challenges of tomorrow—digital 
experience at the forefront of decision-making, with hardly strategic consulting cannot be replaced. Machines can disruption to sustainability—strategic consulting will be the 
Banking strategic consulting today has changed from the any technology involvement. identify patterns and recommend outcomes, but human key catalyst, driving the industry to resilience, innovation, 
conventional advisory models to a highly data-dependent, AI- consultants provide judgment, emotional intelligence, and and sustained growth.
driven profession that enables institutions to take quicker and Globalization and the First Signs of Transformation contextual awareness. For instance, in times of geopolitical 
more informed decisions. conflict or economic pressures, experienced consultants are 
With banking opening up local confines and onto the global able to consider cultural,  ethical,  and emotional 
Conventional Advisory: Banking's Early Dependence on stage, consulting's horizon also widened. Banks started considerations that computers cannot.
Human Acumen dealing with international competition, technology 
disruption, and better-educated customers. Consultants Trust  i s  l ikewise  the  fundamental  p i l lar  of  the 
In its formative years, banking strategy consulting was the reformed their practice, integrating market intelligence and consultant–bank relationship. Banks continue to appreciate 
domain of personal contact and reasoned judgment. technology-driven analysis to remain relevant. Strategic consultants who can take AI-produced reports and formulate 
Consultants were close advisors and dear friends of top consulting in banking slowly evolved from being so-called actionable strategies aligned with their long-term objectives. 
executives, poring over balance sheets, evaluating risk, and compliance work to guidance on digitalization, customer- To a large extent, the future of consulting does not reside in 
writing long reports. Their worth lay in decades of driven models, and high-ticket mergers and acquisitions.
18 www.insightssuccessmagazine.com August 2025 19


Open Banking Initiatives
Collaboration Instead of Competition Innovation with Responsibility
Its strongest change strategy has been fintech partnerships. In the current era, innovation has to be coupled with 
Fintechs possess innovation for customers, speed, and responsibility. Consumers would want their banks to 
creativity, while banks possess deep regulatory knowledge, contribute towards solving universal problems like 
long-standing relationships, and solidity. Each can enhance environmental destruction and social injustice. The 
the other to create financial ecosystems that take advantage of conventional banking industry can make this desire a reality 
the best of both. by providing finance to eco-friendly projects, providing eco-
friendly investment opportunities, and showing ecologically 
This culture of partnership has already been bearing some friendly business practices. By coupling innovation with 
fruits in the form of instant transfer, in-app budgeting social responsibility, banks are able to establish sustainable 
facilities, and electronic cashless transactions. These value for consumers and society.
collaborations do go to prove that innovation does not always 
necessarily involve wheel reinvention, but gentle tweaking of The Road Ahead
what exists.
Hybrid models will define the future of the traditional 
Ensuring the Human Touch mainstream banking industry through the use of the stability 
DRIVING INNOVATION IN of the traditional institutions and the pace of the digital-born 
While the banks become digital, they need to take care that rivals. The future is not abandoning the past but a refinement 
they do not shed that human touch. Bankers by temperament, of it. Banks that have their customers first in all that they do, 
they continue to be relationship and trust individuals. The use technology cautiously, and stay rooted in tradition will not 
voice assistants and the chatbots can deal with the low-level just survive but thrive.
queries, but there are several customers who need to be 
assured by the warmth of human contact with an advisor when Conclusion: Building the Future Together
there is a complex issue involved.
Banking innovation is not a tech revolution; it's a strategic and 
The conventional banking industry needs to balance a cultural one. Banking, fintech, regulators, and customers 
he traditional banking industry has served as the This change, though, does not make traditional banks 
T automation with personalization. Neither should replace must all get together and design the future of financial pillar of economic activity for decades across the obsolete. Instead, the trust, credibility, and regulation that human touch but both leverage technology to enhance it. By services. With innovation with trust intact and human touch globe. Banks across centuries have contributed to traditional banks have built up over decades provide them introducing empathy into digital channels and surfing the preserved, the industry can be the keystone of economic 
providing financial security and stability through the holding with an advantage. The challenge is to use these built-up wave of human contact, banks can deepen customer loyalty in stability—better, more enlightened, and more inclusive than 
of deposits and business growth assistance. Now, the industry strengths in a new technology-driven era where customer a more digital world. ever.”
is at the crossroads. The tsunami of digital revolution, fueled engagement becomes progressively more technologically 
by changing customer needs and frenzied technologies, is influenced.
Overcoming Transformation Phobias
remodeling bankings mode. Institutions once demarcated by 
geography and personal interaction are being forced to The Role of Technology in Reinventing Banking Innovation comes with its set of challenges. Legacy systems 
balance demands for speed, convenience, and customization are still present with most banks, which are difficult to support 
in an age when customers' experiences are growing ever more Technology is now at the forefront of change. Banks can read with solutions today. Compliance with regulation also adds 
digital. customers through artificial intelligence so that they can offer complexity in taking on new solutions. Cultural resistance in 
them individual financial guidance and easier fraud organisations also has the impact of slowing down digital 
Embracing the Shift in Customer Expectations prevention. Blockchain technology enables safer and more take-up.
open transactions and reduces the need for expensive 
The modern-day customer has new parameters for banking intermediaries. Cloud computing, however, enables banks to In order to thrive in overcoming these challenges, the banks 
experiences compared to the past. Competitive interest rates move infrastructure, reduce expenditures, and enhance must create an agile culture. Empowering staff with the 
or widespread branch coverage are no longer sufficient. services much more easily. authority to adopt new tools, dismantling silos across 
Individuals desire that services be available around the clock functions, and undertaking change management training is 
and anywhere, and tailored to meet specific needs. Mobile These are not futurespeak—the solutions that follow are not needed. Innovation does not refer to new technology; it refers 
apps, digital wallets, and online banks have set a new standard hypothetical, but many banks are beginning to adopt them. to changing mindsets to adopt and enable change.
of convenience, compelling the conventional banking The stodgy banking industry can blend the strength of 
industry to re-evaluate customer service. traditional institutions with the versatility of new technology 
to offer stable and innovative products.
22 www.insightssuccessmagazine.com August 2025 23
Open Banking Initiatives
Collaboration Instead of Competition Innovation with Responsibility
Its strongest change strategy has been fintech partnerships. In the current era, innovation has to be coupled with 
Fintechs possess innovation for customers, speed, and responsibility. Consumers would want their banks to 
creativity, while banks possess deep regulatory knowledge, contribute towards solving universal problems like 
long-standing relationships, and solidity. Each can enhance environmental destruction and social injustice. The 
the other to create financial ecosystems that take advantage of conventional banking industry can make this desire a reality 
the best of both. by providing finance to eco-friendly projects, providing eco-
friendly investment opportunities, and showing ecologically 
This culture of partnership has already been bearing some friendly business practices. By coupling innovation with 
fruits in the form of instant transfer, in-app budgeting social responsibility, banks are able to establish sustainable 
facilities, and electronic cashless transactions. These value for consumers and society.
collaborations do go to prove that innovation does not always 
necessarily involve wheel reinvention, but gentle tweaking of The Road Ahead
what exists.
Hybrid models will define the future of the traditional 
Ensuring the Human Touch mainstream banking industry through the use of the stability 
DRIVING INNOVATION IN of the traditional institutions and the pace of the digital-born 
While the banks become digital, they need to take care that rivals. The future is not abandoning the past but a refinement 
they do not shed that human touch. Bankers by temperament, of it. Banks that have their customers first in all that they do, 
they continue to be relationship and trust individuals. The use technology cautiously, and stay rooted in tradition will not 
voice assistants and the chatbots can deal with the low-level just survive but thrive.
queries, but there are several customers who need to be 
assured by the warmth of human contact with an advisor when Conclusion: Building the Future Together
there is a complex issue involved.
Banking innovation is not a tech revolution; it's a strategic and 
The conventional banking industry needs to balance a cultural one. Banking, fintech, regulators, and customers 
he traditional banking industry has served as the This change, though, does not make traditional banks 
T automation with personalization. Neither should replace must all get together and design the future of financial pillar of economic activity for decades across the obsolete. Instead, the trust, credibility, and regulation that human touch but both leverage technology to enhance it. By services. With innovation with trust intact and human touch globe. Banks across centuries have contributed to traditional banks have built up over decades provide them introducing empathy into digital channels and surfing the preserved, the industry can be the keystone of economic 
providing financial security and stability through the holding with an advantage. The challenge is to use these built-up wave of human contact, banks can deepen customer loyalty in stability—better, more enlightened, and more inclusive than 
of deposits and business growth assistance. Now, the industry strengths in a new technology-driven era where customer a more digital world. ever.”
is at the crossroads. The tsunami of digital revolution, fueled engagement becomes progressively more technologically 
by changing customer needs and frenzied technologies, is influenced.
Overcoming Transformation Phobias
remodeling bankings mode. Institutions once demarcated by 
geography and personal interaction are being forced to The Role of Technology in Reinventing Banking Innovation comes with its set of challenges. Legacy systems 
balance demands for speed, convenience, and customization are still present with most banks, which are difficult to support 
in an age when customers' experiences are growing ever more Technology is now at the forefront of change. Banks can read with solutions today. Compliance with regulation also adds 
digital. customers through artificial intelligence so that they can offer complexity in taking on new solutions. Cultural resistance in 
them individual financial guidance and easier fraud organisations also has the impact of slowing down digital 
Embracing the Shift in Customer Expectations prevention. Blockchain technology enables safer and more take-up.
open transactions and reduces the need for expensive 
The modern-day customer has new parameters for banking intermediaries. Cloud computing, however, enables banks to In order to thrive in overcoming these challenges, the banks 
experiences compared to the past. Competitive interest rates move infrastructure, reduce expenditures, and enhance must create an agile culture. Empowering staff with the 
or widespread branch coverage are no longer sufficient. services much more easily. authority to adopt new tools, dismantling silos across 
Individuals desire that services be available around the clock functions, and undertaking change management training is 
and anywhere, and tailored to meet specific needs. Mobile These are not futurespeak—the solutions that follow are not needed. Innovation does not refer to new technology; it refers 
apps, digital wallets, and online banks have set a new standard hypothetical, but many banks are beginning to adopt them. to changing mindsets to adopt and enable change.
of convenience, compelling the conventional banking The stodgy banking industry can blend the strength of 
industry to re-evaluate customer service. traditional institutions with the versatility of new technology 
to offer stable and innovative products.
22 www.insightssuccessmagazine.com August 2025 23
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