Rinima Borah Agarwal, a dynamic social entrepreneur and passionate advocate for women’s empowerment, has made a remarkable impact not only as a successful businesswoman but also as a semi-finalist in Mrs. India Inc. Her inspiring journey from a small village in Assam to the bustling city of Bangalore embodies grit, determination, and an unwavering spirit of resilience. Reflecting on her transition from social entrepreneurship to competing in Mrs. India Inc, she shares that this journey is deeply tied to her mission of uplifting others. She explains, “Transitioning from a social entrepreneur to Mrs. India Inc is a journey fueled by my passion for women’s empowerment. Having faced adversity—from domestic violence and financial struggles to the challenges of rural beginnings—I feel a deep responsibility to help women who may have lost their confidence rediscover their strength.” She considers the Mrs. India Inc platform a lifelong dream that allows her to amplify her message and serve as a national ambassador for change, connecting with a wider audience and inspiring those who relate to her journey.
However, the path to Mrs. India Inc has not been without its challenges. She describes the hurdles she has faced with a profound sense of introspection. “My biggest challenge was achieving a healthier lifestyle and losing 14 kg. While this platform is size-inclusive, I wanted my physical transformation to mirror the dedication I bring to my journey. It hasn’t been easy, adopting new habits and prioritising fitness, but I’ve done it with the responsibility of inspiring others.” Preparing for the question-and-answer session has also been a transformative experience. “The process of self-reflection required to answer questions authentically made me confront parts of myself I hadn’t faced before,” she says. Being away from her family was another test of independence, forcing her to tap into the strength she had as an individual, which she once prided herself on before marriage. “Facing my anxiety and depression away from my comfort zone has reminded me of the importance of self-reliance and the power of embracing solitude,” she adds, grateful for the self-discovery this journey has brought her.
Rinima’s motivation to participate in Mrs. India Inc Season 5 is deeply rooted in her past experiences and her desire to give a voice to those who feel unseen. She recalls how, growing up, she was bullied and made to feel ashamed of her background, an experience that only strengthened her resolve to build an identity she could be proud of. “I want to represent not only myself but also countless others who feel unseen,” she explains. Coming from Assam, she is motivated by the lack of Northeastern representation in leadership roles across India. “I want to show that we belong in every sphere, especially leadership,” she says, hopeful that her journey from a bullied child to a corporate leader and now a social entrepreneur will inspire others from marginalised communities to reach beyond their circumstances. Her participation is driven by a desire to create a ripple effect, empowering others to pursue opportunities with confidence.
When asked how she would empower the women of society, Rinima responds with conviction, “True empowerment comes from actions, not just words. That’s why I chose to participate in Mrs. India Inc at 36, with years of experience, resilience, and purpose. Had I come here 15 years ago, I’d have only words to share. Today, I bring a journey that speaks for itself.” Through her brand, Miss Momo, and her social media presence, she inspires women from all walks of life to embrace their uniqueness and potential. By sharing her own true, often vulnerable, stories, Rinima aims to create a space where women feel seen and encouraged. Her hope is to leave a legacy of empowerment through action, building a more united India where women from every background uplift each other and realise that together, they are capable of extraordinary things.