The Law of Reciprocity in Action: Celebrating Mangla Sachdev
Every so often, someone joins The Athena Network and quietly, steadily demonstrates what happens when you combine generosity, strategy, and intention.
That someone is Mangla Sachdev, Athena Singapore member and founder of Expat Business in a Bag, a woman whose work helps expats, entrepreneurs, and changemakers navigate international business with confidence and clarity.
When Mangla joined Athena, she didn’t do it out of necessity. As she says herself:
“I didn’t think I needed to join another group. I was already part of so many! But I was completely wrong. While some groups are great for learning and others for casual conversations, Athena is specifically designed for conversions and real results.
The return on investment speaks for itself: I made back my entire membership fee within the first three months of my first year. In my second year, it took just one week!
Now, as I enter my third year, I’m not just looking for a return on investment, I’m seeking collaborators to help me reach a much wider community.
Athena isn’t just another networking group; it’s a conversion-focused community that delivers measurable results.”
The Law of Reciprocity at Work
Mangla’s story perfectly illustrates The Law of Reciprocity, the simple truth that what we give freely often returns multiplied.
From her very first meetings, Mangla gave her attention, her expertise, and her support to other members. She didn’t hold back or guard her knowledge; she shared it generously. And in return, opportunities flowed to her, not by chance, but by design.
That’s the essence of The Athena Way. When women recognise each other, refer each other, and truly want each other to succeed, they activate a cycle of reciprocity that fuels both personal and professional growth.
Beyond ROI — Towards Collaboration
What stands out in Mangla’s words is her evolution: she began by looking for results and soon moved towards something even richer, collaboration.
It’s a beautiful reminder that while financial return is tangible, the deeper return comes through relationships, partnerships, and shared purpose. The very connections we nurture often become the foundation of our next big leap.
A Practical Reflection for You
At your next networking meeting, try this:
- Give first. Offer a connection, an introduction, or a word of encouragement.
- Recognise others. Acknowledge someone’s effort or expertise publicly.
- Stay open. The opportunity that comes back may not look like you expect, but it will arrive.
That’s how reciprocity works. You give with no expectation… and find yourself richly rewarded in ways you couldn’t have planned.
Thank You, Mangla
Mangla, thank you for modelling what it means to give generously and receive graciously. You remind us that networking isn’t just about building business, it’s about building trust, momentum, and mutual success.
Your journey is a living example of reciprocity in motion and a beautiful reminder that when women support women, everyone rises.
To learn more about Mangla’s work, visit Expat Business in a Bag.
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