SWE Global Ambassador Spotlight: Riddhi Attarde

Read all about Riddhi’s journey with SWE and her passion for women’s inclusion in STEM.
SWE Global Ambassador Spotlight: Riddhi Attarde
Riddhi Attarde headshot
Riddhi Attarde

I’m an engineering student at MIT World Peace University and a Society of Women Engineers (SWE) global ambassador who genuinely loves building communities and making engineering feel less intimidating and more inclusive.

A lot of what I do sits at the intersection of tech, leadership, and storytelling: bringing people together, asking the uncomfortable questions, and creating spaces where women in engineering feel seen and confident.

How did you first get involved with SWE?

I got involved through my student affiliate at MIT World Peace University in Pune, India. I initially joined out of curiosity. Getting involved in on-the-ground initiatives, events, and conversations with women navigating similar paths to my own made SWE feel less like an organization and more like a community, and that’s what kept me involved.

What inspired you to become a global ambassador?

Growing up around engineers, I always assumed access, confidence, and exposure in tech were a given, until I realized they weren’t.

Seeing how many talented women lacked the same support systems I had inspired me to become a global ambassador, so I could help bridge that gap and make engineering spaces feel more accessible and welcoming.

What’s one highlight or meaningful moment from your SWE journey so far?

Riddhi advocated for girls at the "Walk to EmpowHER" rally.
Riddhi advocated for girls at the “Walk to EmpowHER” rally.

In my first year of university, there was a moment when I leaned heavily on people in my SWE student affiliate, and that’s when it really hit me that engineering isn’t a solo journey.

Having a community that showed up, supported me, and reminded me I didn’t have to figure everything out alone changed how I see both engineering and myself.

How has being part of the SWE Global Ambassador Program contributed to your personal or professional growth?

Being part of the SWE Global Ambassador Program has helped me find my voice and use it with intention. It’s pushed me to think beyond my own experiences, communicate with more confidence, and take responsibility for creating spaces where others feel supported and empowered.

A favorite inspiring quote:

You don’t need to be extraordinary, you just need to keep showing up.

Outside of SWE and work, what brings you joy or fulfillment?

Outside of SWE and work, I enjoy creating content that captures the real, sometimes messy experience of being a woman in STEM. I share college life, learning, and everyday moments on Instagram and Pinterest, mostly to remind others that they’re not alone in figuring things out.

SWE Global Ambassador Spotlight: Riddhi Attarde
Riddhi moderated a fireside chat at a recent event.

Author

  • SWE Blog

    SWE Blog provides up-to-date information and news about the Society and how our members are making a difference every day. You’ll find stories about SWE members, engineering, technology, and other STEM-related topics.

    View all posts