Until my mid-twenties, I was on a path well-trodden, with a master’s degree in Computer Science and a good government job. But after my son was born, I wanted to do something different that would let me look after him and make a name for myself.

My company, Global Bridge Exim, started out in Surat as an offline enterprise that sold sarees. Then, three years ago, sales began to gradually decline. I heeded the advice of friends who recognized the potential for digital commerce and decided to switch to an online business.

I’ve dreamed of being an entrepreneur for as long as I can remember. I was working in a corporate job in the accounting field, but I felt I could contribute more by creating opportunities for rural women.  

Like many entrepreneurs, I started my professional life in the corporate world. After graduating with a degree in software engineering, I worked in Delhi for a couple of big firms, including Adobe.

The end of India’s nationwide lockdown in 2020 was an uncertain time, but that was when I started my own company.

Entrepreneurship is in my blood. My parents established Vimal Handloom Emporium in 1997, when I was a young school boy, and I dreamt of one day making a career in the exports field.

As engineers, my father and I are both problem solvers. We believe that facing challenges and adapting to the new is the best way to succeed amid tough times and ensure business continuity.

My entrepreneurial journey began after my marriage, when I relocated to Panipat from New Delhi. In 1998, I gave up my teaching job to make the move.

My brothers and I have big dreams for our business Arch Fab. Our vision is to become a trusted global supplier of high-quality soft furnishings and household linens.

There isn’t a single business in the world which hasn’t been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Like everyone else, we too were not prepared for its aftermath.

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit us and the country went into lockdown, the first thing that happened was people quickly confined themselves to their homes.

The COVID-19 lockdown has been the defining period of my professional life. It has made me realise why the spirit of entrepreneurship and grit are not just attributes that help you personally, but also those around you who depend on you.

I set up Scraft Products Pvt. Ltd. a decade ago after completing my MBA from KJ Somaiya Institute of Management Studies and Research, Mumbai.

I have been a business woman for over 10 years now but my beginnings were humble. In fact, not many people know that I had to sell my wedding jewelry and mortgage my house to start my business.