Mehak Kochhar

• What motivated you to become a leader within your organization/community?

A: What motivated me to become a leader within my organization and community stems from a deeply personal experience. In 2011, my mother was diagnosed with cancer, and over the following years, I witnessed firsthand the challenges patients and their families face navigating the healthcare system. Her journey highlighted the critical role of patient support programs in alleviating stress and ensuring access to care. That experience inspired me to dedicate my career to improving the healthcare journey for others, helping patients focus on their recovery rather than worrying about coverage or access. It motivated me to lead with purpose, to build programs and teams that make a tangible difference, and to advocate for systems that empower patients and families.

• How can women best empower and support other women in their organizations?

A: As a woman who balances a professional career while managing multiple priorities at home, I often see that fellow women underestimate their own abilities and potential. I believe the best way to empower and support each other is by creating safe, inclusive spaces where women can share experiences, learn from one another, and grow together. Mentorship doesn’t need a title; even small acts of guidance, encouragement, or acknowledgment in day-to-day work can have a transformative impact.

I also believe in lifting others through example and action, celebrating each other’s successes, and fostering a culture where collaboration outweighs competition. By cultivating networks of support, offering constructive feedback, and championing one another for opportunities, we not only strengthen individual confidence but also drive meaningful change across organizations. My philosophy is simple: do good, and good will come—when we invest in each other, the impact ripples far beyond any single role or project.

• What healthy habits do you employ to maintain your mental health and wellbeing?

A: To maintain my mental health and wellbeing, I prioritize activities that help me recharge and stay grounded. I practice hot yoga, which helps me release stress and stay physically and mentally centered. In the summer months, I enjoy gardening, and I also turn to painting as a creative outlet to alleviate stress and express myself. Beyond these personal practices, I find immense joy and solace in spending quality time with my father, which provides me with perspective, emotional support, and much-needed downtime. These habits not only help me manage the demands of a busy career but also allow me to approach work and life with clarity.

• What are you currently working on to complement your main job or enhance your skillset?

A: I strongly believe in continuous learning as a way to grow both personally and professionally. I am currently pursuing my Executive MBA at Ivey Business School to further elevate my leadership capabilities and broaden the impact I can have within healthcare and beyond. The past 13 months have been intense but incredibly rewarding, filled with opportunities to learn, reflect, and apply new strategic and enterprise-level skills. As I near the conclusion of this journey, I am already thinking about my next learning experience—a sneak peek: it will involve exploring AI, a field that I believe will play a transformative role in healthcare and patient support programs.