Häfele India has entered the second year of its L.I.F.E – Ladies in Furniture Ecosystem initiative, reinforcing its commitment to empowering women professionals across India’s furniture, design and manufacturing sectors.

Launched as a first-of-its-kind industry platform, L.I.F.E was conceived to build a supportive community for women in a traditionally male-dominated ecosystem. In its second year, the initiative is expanding its scope through deeper learning opportunities, stronger professional networks and increased collaboration among women entrepreneurs, designers, architects and manufacturers.

To mark the milestone, L.I.F.E hosted an in-person gathering at Bravura Design Solutions in Noida, bringing together women leaders from across the design and furniture value chain. The event featured discussions on the government’s roadmap for interior MSMEs and emerging trends in modular furniture, with sessions led by Mercy Epao, IAS, Joint Secretary, SME, Government of India, and Ridhi Kale, Senior Associate Editor, India Today HOME.

Commenting on the initiative, Padma Gupta, Director – HR, Customer Experience & Strategy, Hafele South Asia, said, “L.I.F.E represents Hafele’s belief that real progress comes from diversity and equal opportunity. Women across the furniture and design ecosystem have immense talent and potential. With this initiative, we are creating a space that not only recognises their contributions but actively supports their growth and leadership.”

Amita Trehan, Founder, Bravura Design Solutions and Chairperson of L.I.F.E, added, “Women in this industry are creators, problem-solvers, and changemakers. Yet many navigate their journeys in silos. L.I.F.E brings them together as a strong community—one that celebrates their skill, nurtures ambition, and provides the support needed to progress with confidence.”

Hafele India said the initiative will continue to scale through more on-ground engagements, expert-led learning formats and an expanding nationwide network, with the aim of fostering a more inclusive and future-ready furniture and design ecosystem in India.