Gouri LeDonne’s journey as a leader is rooted in purpose, community, and a deep belief in the power of women to transform the world around them. As one of the first recipients of the Edie Hunt Award, a longtime supporter of Forté, and a mentor to many, Gouri exemplifies what it means to lead with empathy, strategy, and impact.
Leading with Purpose and Paying It Forward
Gouri’s commitment to advancing women in business began early in her career. Being one of the first Edie Hunt Award winners affirmed her values and gave her confidence to lead with purpose. “I was still trying to find my voice,” she recalls. “Earning this award was a wonderful source of encouragement.” Her connection to Forté runs deep — she’s been a donor since 2015, inspired by the organization’s measurable impact on women’s MBA enrollment and its broader mission to elevate women across industries. “When women rise, everyone rises,” she says. Supporting Forté became a natural extension of her belief in community and equity.
When women rise, everyone rises.”
The Power of Inclusive Leadership and Lifelong Growth
Throughout her career, Gouri has seen how inclusive leadership transforms organizations. “It’s about creating environments where people feel seen, heard, and valued,” she explains. Her MBA experience sharpened her strategic thinking and expanded her worldview, but it was the peer network that truly shaped her. “They challenged me, supported me, and broadened my understanding of the business world.” Today, she continues to mentor others, finding deep fulfillment in watching them step into their own power. Her leadership is also shaped by her multicultural upbringing and family life, which taught her empathy, adaptability, and the importance of navigating nuance.
It’s about creating environments where people feel seen, heard, and valued.”
Preparing Women for the Future of Work
As the nature of leadership evolves, Gouri believes Forté must continue to equip women with future-ready skills. “Women leaders today are navigating a world that’s more complex and demanding than ever,” she says. She sees opportunity in areas like AI fluency, cross-cultural leadership, and values-driven decision making. Investing in women isn’t just a moral imperative — it’s a strategic one. With women still holding only 28% of C-suite roles, she urges organizations to recognize the innovation and resilience women bring to the table. Her advice to emerging leaders is clear: “Trust your voice, even before you feel ‘ready.’ Leadership isn’t a title — it’s how you show up, every day.”
Trust your voice, even before you feel ‘ready.’ Leadership isn’t a title — it’s how you show up, every day.”
Gouri’s story is a testament to the ripple effect of inclusive leadership, community investment, and purpose-driven growth. She’s not just a champion for change — she’s helping others become champions too.
