Barbara Cox Awards
2025 nominees:
Daveena Saranna
Brief biography of you and your career
Daveena is the EV Campaigns Manager at Green.TV Media, where she heads up Top Women in EV—making waves in both sustainability and media. With a career that includes Everything Electric, EZOO, Blenheim Palace, and the England Men’s & Mixed Netball Association, she’s mastered the art of blending content, sustainability, and being a 25-year-old woman with a big passion for what she does. Outside of her day job, Daveena is juggling a third degree in Sustainable Urban Development at the University of Oxford (because, why not?) and trying (emphasis on trying) to be a netball pro. She’s the type to talk first, think later, read, run, and rekindle friendships at the most conveniently overdue times. In Daveena’s world, more is definitely more.
What advice would you give to a woman considering a career in automotive?
When I first entered the automotive industry, I didn’t have a clear roadmap – I just knew I was curious and ready to learn. My advice is to give yourself permission to explore. Try different roles, take on challenges that scare you a little, and don’t worry if it takes a few attempts to find what really lights you up. Believe in your voice, your perspective, and your value – you absolutely belong here! Find people who see your potential and push you to grow, and don’t forget to enjoy the journey. The most important thing? Stay true to who you are. That’s your biggest strength!
What advice would you give your younger self on having a successful career?
Trust yourself more. Your instincts are strong – listen to them, even when they whisper! You don’t need to shrink to fit into spaces; take up space boldly and unapologetically. Keep learning, stay curious, and never let the pace of change intimidate you – it’s where the magic happens. And don’t be so modest! Talk about your work, celebrate your wins (big and small), and let people see what you’re capable of. Confidence isn’t arrogance – it’s just you, owning your story. Oh, and remember: it’s okay to laugh along the way. Not every meeting has to be serious, and sometimes the best breakthroughs come after a cup of tea and a good laugh.
