Khatta Meetha OT TALK-Dr REENA VALECHA (OT)

Introducing the sixth guest of my column ,a professional who is an icon of inspiration to those who want to walk on the road less travelled.She is known for her expertise in Occupational health and Ergonomics making her stand in a very competitive corporate sector.A very dynamic,highly talented, humble and fun filled human being.

Dr Reena Valecha

Dr. Reena Valecha is an Occupational therapist & Ergonomic Specialist by profession with a strong background of clinical expertise in orthopedic domain. Rich experience of 9 years in the field of Ergonomics, studying employee behavior and providing insights on improving employee
health, well being and organizations productivity.

She has done her Bachelor's in Occupational therapy (B.O.Th)from Manipal University and Industry Training in Ergonomics from NIOH,NID,OSHAS and Internal Innovation Cell.

She advises in the design of work for productivity and well-being. She has interacted and worked closely with various private and government organizations to identify the challenges faced by users in the modern workplace & find solutions for the same with the product designers, architects and decision makers.Presently associated with Workspace & Ergonomics Research Cell of Godrej Interio as Principal Ergonomic Consultant. She also represents furniture industry in BIS Ergonomics Committee, GOI.
Nominated as 100 Women Achievers in India by Ministry of Women and Child Development for her constant efforts in educating young work force of India on Occupational Well being. (Till today have done more than 1700 ergonomics awareness programs) in 2015
She is faculty with major esteemed forums like National Safety Council,Indian Association of Occupational health, ISE, Indian Green Building Council, Association of Healthcare Providers India and CII naming few. 

Her Contribution in the field of Ergonomics more from practical implementation at this young age is remarkable along with Industry projects and Research Publication. She is more into giving back to the society and improving quality of occupational health in India.

So let's read her views further:

1) What are the different fields of practice that Occupational therapist can venture in?

Considering how creative our field is we should explore the less explored. Different fields that an OT can also look at is Ergonomics , Industrial Rehab , Cancer Rehab, Assistive technology specialist, Innovation Researcher etc

2) What inspired you to choose Occupational health and Ergonomics as your career field1?

A challenge that U Can't ! and off course my passion towards the subject which my dad helped me realize it and inspired me to go get it !

Someone very senior once told me Reena , it’s not that easy working in Corporate's as a fresher and in the field of Ergonomics in India, you need lot of experience , so forget it.  One should be practical and select what was trending as a therapist!

I anyway did what I wanted to :) Occupational Health and Ergonomics Specialist!   It's all an individual effort of finding own path, creating new profile and the universe supported. ( My father )  

See,  today I am featured in Khatta Meetha OT Talk blog :)

3) Can you please elaborate on your journey in this field with regards to the challenges you have faced?

Challenges !! Oh yes there were many and there are still , but that is what is helping me shape my professional journey. I have worked really very hard is all I can say now .

The time I started  the challenges were different, like as a fresher working in a non-medico background with Product designers ,engineers , B school graduates and senior management , who were most of the time amazed that why the Doctor was working with them as their colleague.!

The subject of ergonomics is related to economics and the textual concept is no more applicable when you start practicing , being observant , open mind , will to step out of  comfort zone are few things which helped me understand this industry to help them better. Today I am proud that along with my team of experts we have created our content on Ergonomics which is applicable in Indian Industry and same is been used as reference data!

The challenge now is to scale up the subject to much higher level which I am on my way and hopefully shall achieve soon.

Today its 9 years for me to complete my professional journey and I am known as an OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST ( not a physio )  well appreciated for my work across Industry forums and I can take liberty in saying that my workplace is proud of having me onboard!

4) How do you view the need of Occupational therapist in the corporate sector?

Need is tremendous !! In my 9 years of industry consultation , with more than 1700 programs and reaching out to thousands of touch point across industries the market is all set for you guys. If you have that will and passion, just start it you OT

5) What can be done to create more work opportunities for younger OTs who are interested in Industrial health and rehabilitation?

A lot could have been done , as an Individual I started my journey with no support from anyone. So I know the pain.

We as a corporate are internally trying to create one more post for an OT. I am also working with government bodies to bring in awareness for the same. There is a  closed group on LinkedIn only for selected and interested professionals in Ergonomics where regular updates will be shared. ( group admission is strictly after initial screening ) . I am into teaching professionals and students in the subject of Ergonomics and share industry insights.  

*My Professional Strength – passion towards Ergonomics and skill of teaching !

*My favourite Occupations – A Teacher, A Doctor and A Traveler

*I am known for- My work, caring human being and always ready to help

*If not OT,I would be  – Definitely be a Radio Jockey or an Actor.

P.S:I extend my gratitude to her for all the effort & giving me her valuable time.Thank you for reading,see you all next Saturday with another guest.

-SSW