Twenty-five years ago, the notion of women’s empowerment was largely aspirational in India. Today, however, it has transformed into a powerful reality, epitomized by Asha’s remarkable journey. At just 19, while studying in Pune, Asha took a bold step into entrepreneurship. Driven by unwavering self-belief, she forged her path, ultimately becoming the chairperson of the Women’s Wing of the Goa Chamber of Commerce. This is the story of Asha’s extraordinary evolution from a college student to a prominent business leader.
Asha’s journey began alongside two friends while pursuing her studies. Coming from a conservative background, her father, a doctor, was initially opposed to her entrepreneurial ambitions, envisioning a future for her in medicine instead. However, Asha was determined to chart her course. Her perspective shifted dramatically after attending a guest lecture by Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, founder of Biocon Limited, which ignited her entrepreneurial spirit.
In the lab, Asha discovered a costly consumable used in drug testing, which inspired her to consider a business venture. Teaming up with her friends, she contacted a supplier in Mumbai to distribute the product, HPLC Column, throughout Maharashtra. Initial funding came from a friend’s father, and despite leaving her studies, Asha and her partners successfully established a strong presence in the market.
However, challenges emerged when their supplier sought to monopolize their customer base. Asha’s persistence led her to a trade show in Munich, where she secured exclusive distributorship for her company. This pivotal moment propelled her business forward, eventually leading to the establishment of a manufacturing unit in India with a Swedish partner.
After a decade of success, personal circumstances prompted Asha to return to Goa, where she married her longtime partner, Amol, and transitioned into a pharmaceutical research unit. Although her initial foray into wellness with VLCC was fruitful, the pandemic forced her to rethink her business strategy.
Emerging from this difficult period, Asha launched “Global to Local,” a platform empowering local women to sell handmade products. As the pandemic receded, she revived her spa brand, Tatva, focusing exclusively on hotel partnerships.
Now serving as Chairperson of the Women’s Wing of the Goa Chamber of Commerce, Asha champions women entrepreneurs through various initiatives, including mentorship programs and events like Business Diva and Asturi, which support women-owned startups.
Asha’s leadership has significantly impacted the entrepreneurial landscape in Goa, with women now accounting for 33% of startups. Her philosophy centers on living in the moment, a mindset that fuels her passion for empowerment and community service.
One of her cherished projects is the Orchid Awards, which she established to honor women entrepreneurs in Goa. What began as a modest ceremony has evolved into a highly anticipated annual event celebrating over a hundred women, complete with awards and recognition.
Asha’s story embodies resilience and innovation, showcasing her ability to adapt and seize new opportunities, no matter the challenges she faces. Her legacy continues to inspire women across India to break barriers and pursue their dreams.
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