Ms. Violet Noronha

She is part of the IndusInd team at PNA House. She has taken the initiative to make her office a green space by implementing waste segregation, composting and creation of a vertical garden from the compost generated. She has played an integral role in making this office a model for other branches across India.

GCF Team:

Can you start by telling us about yourself?

Ms. V

 I have grown up in Mumbai and have completed my graduation from St. Andrew’s College and MBA from NMIMS. I am a part of the Technology Management Group which deals in procurement of IT software and hardware at IndusInd Bank. On the personal front, I like to work on CSR activities and other related projects.

In terms of what I generally expect in people is trust.  Maintaining a trust factor is important to me in any relationship especially my close family and friends. I dislike backstabbing and I generally keep a safe distance from such people.

GCF Team:

Have you thought of or noticed waste management in your life or career before?

Ms. V

Waste management has been on my mind for a long time.  When I see people throwing garbage from trains it really disturbs me.  I feel there should be a policy of imposing a fine/penalty for waste being thrown in public or not collected properly. GCF has provided me with a platform to address this issue at IndusInd Bank.

GCF Team:

Do different generations have different perspectives to waste management?

Ms. V

Yes, I do feel so, but it is not restricted to just generations. A lot depends on upbringing and background, as also the literacy level.  Uneducated people do not have an understanding or civic sense to throw garbage in the correct place. However, it’s nice that children are now being sensitized in schools.

I also sometimes feel that the rich don’t care, while the poor are unaware about their responsibilities and there is a need for behavior change to be brought about.

GCF Team:

Do different generations have different consumption patterns?

Ms. V

 Yeah, it has changed due to exposure to media and technological upgrades through the internet and smart phones. There has been innovation and youngsters are a step ahead. Kids are running ahead of time and have become impatient and look for instant gratification.

GCF Team:

Have you taken up any projects outside your career?

Ms. V

 No not outside of my career as such. But I have been a part of activities such as donation drives and have taken an active interest in marginalized societies. I have been part of one day activities for orphans, old age homes and women empowerment. I have also introduced female security guards at IndusInd Bank.

GCF Team:

Are there any social issues or causes that you believe in?

Ms. V

I do believe in addressing the cause of waste and making the earth greener. I have also invested efforts into completing the cycle of waste management by using the compost generated by wet waste. I wanted to create an organic garden on the office terrace, however, it would have been difficult to maintain hence we have opted for a vertical garden. This garden uses compost generated by the office and it also enhances the beauty of the space.

GCF Team:

Can you comment on a describe some of your habits?

Ms. V

 I am a very organized person. If I remove something I have to put it back in its place. I like clothes, dressing up and singing. Sometimes I sing while working. I am very straight forward.  People take me for being rude but it’s just that I like to be upfront. That’s how I am.  I also love children and I am the Choir Conductor of the Kids Choir in my Church.  I take out time to train the kids every weekend.

GCF Team:

Any routine or habit that you do daily for a specific reason?

Ms. V

I prefer to not stick to a routine. I dislike monotony and like each day to be different.

GCF Team:

Do you consider yourself organized? If yes, how do you do it?

Ms. V

Being organized is a habit. I like being neat and clean. At home I have a section where I leave things if I am in a hurry, but I must settle it the moment I am back. At work, at the beginning of each day I like to plan the things to be done throughout. I like maintaining checklists.

GCF Team:

Do you read? If yes, if you had to recommend a book which one would you recommend?

Ms. V

 I like to read sometimes, not a lot. But once I get started I need to finish the book. I mainly read spiritual books such as the Bible and books related to the teachings of Jesus. I like listening to Christian Preachers as it increases my faith and keeps me going.

GCF Team:

What would your friends or partner describe you as?

Ms. V

My friends would describe me as a person who they love to be with and the girl who laughs very loudly. I am a spiritual person; at the same time very outgoing and I like to party too.  I can be short tempered sometimes.

GCF Team:

If you had to choose a message for 1 million people, what would it be?

Ms. V

Love God! Love his Creation!

GCF Team:

Is there anything that you have purchased below 1 grand that has impacted your life?

Ms. V

I would say my first mobile phone that I bought about 12-13 years ago; it brought the world closer to me. ?