The first-ever Global Outstanding Security Performance Awards (OSPAs) took place virtually on 12th February, bringing together the very best of the security industry from across the world. This landmark event recognised and celebrated the winners among winners – finalists who had already distinguished themselves in their respective national OSPAs competitions.
Rekha Gairola, an accomplished security leader from India, has been awarded a prestigious Global honor from OSPAs as an Outstanding Female Security Professional Award recognizing her for her exceptional contributions to the field of security. Rekha is a seasoned Global Safety and Security leader, with over 24 years of extensive experience spanning across diverse industries including aviation, logistics, finance, aerospace, and manufacturing. Throughout her career, she has been associated with esteemed organizations such as Jet Airways, DHL Express, HSBC Bank, and Boeing International. She has honed a robust skill set in understanding and mitigating risks within various organizational contexts. She is a Certified POSH Act (Prevention of Sexual Harassment) and POCSO (Prevention of Children from Sexual Offences) trainer, internationally certified professional skills trainer, and a leadership coach. She is a known face in the fraternity when it comes to the Women Empowerment. Her experience as a POSH trainer reinforces her commitment to creating workplaces that are not only secure but also respectful and inclusive.
Her journey into security was anything but traditional. Yet, through relentless hard work, strategic vision, and a commitment to excellence, she has redefined leadership in an industry often dominated by conventional pathways. In a domain largely occupied by ex-military personnel, her trajectory as a woman security professional from a non-military background has consistently pushed the boundaries of outstanding performance, serving as a beacon for diversity, inclusivity, and a new paradigm in security leadership. As a fervent advocate for inclusivity, she has strived to create an environment that embraces differences, understanding that a mosaic of experiences fosters innovative solutions and resilience in the face of evolving threats.
From the onset of her career, she has embodied a relentless pursuit of excellence. Her commitment to staying at the forefront of emerging trends and technologies has not only fortified her capabilities but has set a high watermark for performance within the security sector. This dedication to continuous improvement has translated into tangible results, positioning her as a catalyst for change in a field where adaptability is paramount. Recognizing the value of mentorship, she has actively engaged in programs aimed at supporting women entering the security domain. By sharing her experiences and insights, she has sought to empower others, instilling confidence and resilience to overcome barriers in a historically challenging environment. Her leadership style is underpinned by values such as integrity, accountability, and commitment to open communication. By embodying these principles, she has fostered a workplace culture where each team member feels valued and motivated to contribute their best. Encouraging a collaborative spirit, she has promoted cross-functional teamwork, breaking down silos and facilitating an exchange of ideas that elevate the collective performance of the entire security team.
This Global honor speaks volumes of Rekha’s commitment, flexibility, and leadership. Having received this honor, she remains committed to influencing the direction of security leadership, promoting diversity, and making sure that security always comes first in business strategy.
