Leading with Purpose: How Avitoli Yeptho is Building a Legacy with Boditive

In the healthcare sector, where not many women were visible in leadership roles, I often had to work twice as hard to convince clients that I was capable of making big decisions—whether it was about finances, supply chain management, or operations. From taxes to day-to-day functioning, I had to constantly prove that I could run a smooth and efficient business.

At times, clients were hesitant to close big deals with me. Even when I raised important queries or asked direct questions, it was sometimes taken as an attack on their ego. And on the other extreme, some people would be overly nice—not out of genuine interest in my business, but simply because I am a woman.

These experiences could have been discouraging, but instead, they shaped me. Over time, I became wiser, more resilient, and focused on growth. Every day, I work hard to be more efficient, reliable, and confident in my decisions. I’ve learned that consistency and dedication slowly change perceptions—and that’s how I continue to overcome these challenges.

Pankaj- Share a Defining Moment in Your Entrepreneurial Journey.

Avitoli– A defining moment in my entrepreneurial journey was when I managed to crack a pharma market that was, for the longest time, purely male-dominated. In doing so, I realized that I was not only creating space for myself but also contributing in my own way to shaping healthcare businesses in Nagaland.

These experiences eventually gave me the confidence to found Boditive, my own startup brand. Looking back, it feels like a huge turning point—not just for my career, but for a woman like me, who once didn’t have access to such knowledge or opportunities.

Pankaj- How do You Maintain Work-life Balance While Running a Business?

Avitoli– Maintaining a work-life balance while running a business is never easy, but over time I’ve learned to create a rhythm that works for me. I deeply value being present for the people I love—my husband, my family, and my close friends—so I consciously organize my work and responsibilities in a way that allows me to make time for them.

I also believe a home should feel like a place of comfort and belonging. I want my spouse to come back to a home he looks forward to, and managing that while running a full-time business is not simple. Engaging the right helpers and support system has been a game-changer, allowing me to handle both roles with more balance.

Equally important is taking care of myself. I invest in my health, beauty, short vacations, and mental wellness because I’ve realized that I can only give my best to others when I’m at my best.

At the end of the day, the goal isn’t just to build a successful business or make money—it’s to live a purposeful, fulfilling life.

Pankaj- How do You Approach Networking and Building Connections in Your Industry as a Woman Entrepreneur?

Avitoli– For me, networking has never been just about exchanging business cards—it’s about building meaningful relationships. The right connections can truly help your business grow, but more importantly, they make it possible to create the kind of impact I strive for with my brand.

I’ve learned that people who bring positivity and purpose can literally change the world around them. That’s why I never miss an opportunity to network, whether it’s through formal industry events or simple conversations that open new doors.

What I also believe is that genuine connections cannot be bought with money. They require human qualities—empathy, respect, trust, and the willingness to listen and learn. As a woman entrepreneur, these skills have not only helped me establish strong professional networks but also create bonds that go beyond business.

Pankaj- What Strategies Have You Used and How They Worked for Your Business?

Avitoli– Scaling a business is never a straightforward journey, but I’ve learned to make the most of the resources I have and focus on strategies that truly work. Currently, we operate in a D2C model through our own e-commerce website www.boditive.com, as well as platforms such as Amazon, Ilando and our Instagram page @boditiveindia while also building a strong B2B presence in physical stores. Financial support is essential for growth, but I believe progress is possible even when you start small and stay consistent.

Our USP product, the Bamboo Charcoal  pad, has been met with overwhelmingly positive feedback — with nearly every woman who has tried it appreciating its exceptional comfort and effectiveness.

One of our most impactful strategies has been collaborating with NGOs, schools, hospitals, and government departments. These partnerships have allowed us to reach the masses directly and create awareness where it is needed the most.

We’ve also stayed committed to genuine marketing—crafting messages that every girl and woman can relate to when it comes to their need for comfortable menstrual solutions. This authenticity has helped us build trust and long-term relationships with customers.

Another strategy that has worked well is partnering with influencers who truly believe in the product. When influencers align with our values and communicate honestly, it resonates with the right audience and helps generate genuinely interested, targeted customers.

In the end, scaling for us has been less about quick wins and more about building sustainable impact through trust, collaboration, and authenticity.

Pankaj- What Role do You Believe Mentorship Plays for Women Entrepreneurs?

Avitoli– Mentorship plays a transformative role for women entrepreneurs. While the right mentorship is key to creating any successful entrepreneur, regardless of gender, for women it carries an added significance. Mentors not only guide us in growing our businesses but also help us discover our strengths, identify our weaknesses, and, most importantly, realize our true value and worth in society.

The reality is that women’s contributions in the business world are often undervalued compared to men’s. In this context, mentorship becomes even more vital—it gives women entrepreneurs the confidence, clarity, and network to break those barriers.

At Boditive, our collaborations with incubation centres such as YouthNet Nagaland, Startup Nagaland, and the Global Alliance for Mass Entrepreneurs have been some of our most impactful partnerships so far. These associations are living proof of how mentorship and supportive ecosystems can empower women entrepreneurs to thrive and create meaningful change.

Pankaj- Your Advice to Female Entrepreneurs:

Avitoli– There are so many lessons I could share, but if I had to highlight a few, these would be the most important:

• If you’ve started, don’t stop. Stay committed to your journey until you achieve what you set out for.
• Earn your place as a serious leader. Society is still learning to recognize women as powerful business leaders—prove it with your work, consistency, and impact.
• Walk in faith and humility. Be open to learning and growing at every step.
• Choose your partners wisely. The people you surround yourself with—both professionally and personally—will shape your journey.
• Lead with efficiency, not just labels. Feminism is important, but don’t rely on it as your only weapon. Let your reliability, efficiency, and the quality of your product or service speak for themselves.

Women entrepreneurs have the power to transform not only their businesses but also the society around them. Once you begin, keep going with courage, wisdom, and grace.