Celebrating leading ADAVB women on International Women's Day - Dr Gitika Sanghvi

In the lead up to International Women's Day on Friday 8 March, we're profiling the leadership journeys of leading ADAVB women. First up we spoke to ADAVB Vice President (and incoming 2019/2020 ADAVB President) Dr Gitika Sanghvi.

What motivated you to study dentistry? Were you ever constrained by perceptions about what women ‘can’t’ do?

I had many family friends who were studying dentistry when I was younger and they always made the course seem interesting and fun. A dentist’s working hours sounded appealing and the fact that you can’t take your work home was a plus. Dentistry seemed both creative and scientific, which appealed to my interests. Growing up, gender wasn’t ever taken into account – it was always stressed, both at school and at home, that anyone could achieve great things (in any profession) if you worked hard and put your mind to it.

Describe some of the inspiring women in your life that have made an impact on you. 

I am incredibly lucky to be surrounded by multiple strong, smart and driven women. One of them is my mum, who somehow managed to run multiple small businesses while still being there to organise my siblings and I when we were growing up.  My sister and sister-in-law are also pretty amazing, both successful professionals in different fields, and starting up businesses from scratch.  Other than family, I’m really fortunate to have a close group of friends who are all over-achievers, and we all tend to inspire and push each other to do our best and give back.

How has the dentistry workforce changed since you studied and throughout your career?

When I went through university my graduating year was around 50:50 male to female, whereas in  previous years it seemed to be more males. Now there  are more females studying dentistry than males. I think the perception of dentistry as a career has changed over the last couple of decades making it more attractive to females.

Tell us about your pathway throughout your leadership journey. 

I’ve always endeavoured to get involved and contribute.  At university, I was the Melbourne Dental Student Society’s President and became a representative on the ADAVB Recent Graduate and Student Committee that same year. Over the years I’ve put myself forward for positions on a few ADAVB committees and was nominated for, and completed, the Health Sector Leadership Program in 2012. I was elected to Council in 2013, and after a few years I nominated to go on Executive. Now three years later, I’m Vice-President.

Describe some of the highlights of your role as ADAVB Vice-President. 

Oh, there’s been a few! Most recently a highlight was meeting with the Victorian Health Minister, the Hon. Jenny Mikakos, to discuss current dental issues – it was great to have an open dialogue so early in her term.

I am also really enjoying meeting members at events, having a chat and getting direct feedback.  And of course, it’s hugely satisfying being able to make decisions together with the other councillors that have a positive impact on our profession.

What do you say to women considering taking the step into leadership with the ADAVB?

Don’t be afraid to put yourself forward and get involved! If you’re interested but not sure where to start, feel free to approach a councillor – we’re always happy to have a chat and give some guidance.

Further information

Contact a councillor: council.adavb.org

Join our mentoring program (ADAVB login required. Applications extended to 8 March): mentoring.adavb.org

Nominate for a committee role (ADAVB login required): adavb.net

Nominate for the Health Sector Leadership Program: hslp.adavb.org

Apply for the ADAVB BOQ Specialist $10,000 Practice Bursary or $5000 Recent Graduate CPD Bursary: bursary.adavb.org

Find your ADAVB Regional Group: adavb.net