“For me, purpose has always been the thread that connects everything I do,” Aparna Radhakrishnan says.
A legal professional and Certified Data Protection Practitioner, Aparna has built her career at the intersection of law and technology. She’s worked across multinational companies, semi-state organisations, and legal consultancies, and today she supports Ireland’s national public broadcaster in a privacy-focused role.
Her work goes deeper than job titles. “Growing up, I was taught to believe in myself and to value kindness, respect, and hard work just as much as any achievement. Those lessons continue to guide me” she explains.
Growing up in Kerala, India, in a close-knit community where harmony and compassion beyond differences were central to daily life, Aparna learned the importance of giving back from an early age.
Both her parents were involved in volunteer organisations from a young age, so she naturally grew up in a household grounded in a strong sense of community. “I grew up watching my parents give their time to others. Many of our closest family friends today are people they met through volunteering. That showed me that community isn’t something you find, it’s something you build.”
During her college years, she was part of initiatives that focused on educating children in underserved communities, running awareness camps for women’s and LGBTQ+ rights, and speaking up for girls who dared to dream bigger. “Seeing how attention and encouragement could change a child’s confidence, that stayed with me. It taught me that even small efforts can create a big impact.”
When Aparna moved to Ireland, she was determined not only to grow professionally but also to find a community where collaboration and shared purpose mattered. A friend suggested PWN Dublin, and although hesitant at first, Aparna attended the Mentoring Programme launch event.
"I didn't know anyone. But listening to women share their stories, something clicked. This was a space built on trust and authenticity."
She joined the programme as a mentee, and what began as a step toward self-development soon became something deeper. Within six months, she was asked to join the core team as the Membership Experience Partner, an opportunity she never expected but embraced wholeheartedly.
“I realised that PWN wasn’t just a network, it was a community that believes in supporting women to rise together. Being part of that inspired me to give back in any way I could.”
Living far from family brings challenges. Balancing two worlds across continents isn't easy. But each obstacle has taught her something about resilience.
“Every challenge teaches you something new about yourself, patience, strength, or humility. You learn to adapt, and you learn to trust your own journey.”
Today, Aparna's vision extends beyond her legal career. She wants to help create spaces where diversity thrives, people feel valued, and integrity shapes how we work and live. Through PWN Dublin, she continues supporting others on their own growth journeys.
"Volunteering reminds me that impact doesn't require grand gestures. It's often found in listening, supporting, and creating moments of connection."
Outside work, Aparna pursues photography and travel, creative outlets connecting her with people and stories from all walks of life.