The January ‘Inspire & Thrive’ session by Women In Business, Empowered BWB & She Magazine (https://www.shemagazine.com.au) at The Sydney Startup Hub (11 York St, Sydney) was a great success, leaving everyone inspired, empowered, and brimming with fresh ideas. Dedicated to supporting women on their personal and professional growth journeys, these small & intimate coaching sessions are designed to prioritise quality over quantity, ensuring meaningful connections and impactful learning experiences.
The session was expertly facilitated by Business Coach Anshu Saxena, whose invaluable guidance made it both engaging and insightful. A key highlight was the interactive exercise on the topic of ‘communication.’ Participants explored techniques for effective communication, shared personal experiences, and exchanged innovative ideas, making it a truly collaborative and enlightening experience.
The safe and supportive atmosphere allowed attendees to learn from each other, fostering genuine connections and sparking actionable takeaways to implement in their professional and personal lives.
It was great to hear and learn from the others including Owner of Narellan post office Neesha Bhagani, Mandala Artist & Life Coach Ash Sundaram, Research Scientist Manisha Pratihast and owner of Meyd.It (http://meyd.it) Susan Hansen.
Would you like to meet us for a chat and coffee or join one of our Coaching sessions at The Sydney Startup Hub?Whether you seek to share your thoughts, feelings, and experiences, engage in an inspiring exchange of ideas, receive valuable support and mentorship, explore collaboration opportunities, discuss your personal and professional growth, or simply enjoy the company of a friend with a listening ear, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us to schedule an appointment. Our dedicated team is eager and excited to assist you. You can email us at empoweredbwb@gmail.com or editor@shemagazine.com.au
Imagination is often dismissed as mere daydreaming, yet it is one of the most powerful tools we possess. Everything that exists today; every innovation, every piece of art, and every business idea, was once a thought, sparked by the imagination of someone who dared to dream. It is the foundation of creativity, the seed from which all action grows, and a guiding force that can transform not only our personal lives but also our professional endeavours.
At its core, imagination is the ability to visualise possibilities beyond the present reality. This mental process allows us to craft visions of what could be, inspiring us to take the first step toward turning ideas into tangible results. For businesses and entrepreneurs, imagination is invaluable. It enables us to see opportunities where others see obstacles, to innovate in competitive markets, and to adapt to ever-changing landscapes. It fuels problem-solving, helps us anticipate future trends, and pushes us to think beyond conventional limits. In essence, imagination is not a luxury; it’s a necessity for success in any field.
In the workplace, imagination doesn’t just help us create, it drives strategy. Whether you’re designing a product, improving customer experiences, or rethinking workflows, imagination allows you to picture the outcome before it exists. For instance, some of the world’s most successful companies like Apple, Tesla, Google etc are rooted in the power of imagining what others deemed impossible. Their leaders dared to envision futures no one else could see, and their actions followed suit.
How to Fuel and Cultivate Imagination:
Here are practical ways to nurture your imagination and unlock its full potential:
Create Space for Curiosity
Break away from rigid routines and give yourself time to explore new ideas. Engage in activities like reading, travelling, or trying new experiences that broaden your perspective. Ask questions about the world around you and seek answers in unexpected places. Dedicate time to learning something new, like a skill or a topic outside your expertise. Curiosity thrives when you allow yourself to wonder and explore without a specific goal in mind.
Engage in Creative Hobbies
Activities like painting, writing, music, or journalling can spark fresh ideas and unlock your creativity. Experiment with forms of art or expression you haven’t tried before to stretch your creative muscles. Set aside time each week to immerse yourself in these activities without pressure or judgment. Even small acts of creativity, like doodling or brainstorming, can reignite your imaginative spark.
Surround Yourself with Inspiration
Spend time with inspiring people, visit stimulating environments, and expose yourself to diverse viewpoints. Attend events, workshops, or exhibitions that challenge your thinking or introduce new ideas. Engage in meaningful conversations with individuals who have unique perspectives or experiences. Surrounding yourself with creativity and innovation energises your imagination and encourages fresh thinking.
Adopt a Childlike Mindset
Approach challenges with curiosity and a willingness to experiment, free from fear of failure. Ask open-ended questions like “What if?” and “Why not?” to push boundaries. Allow yourself to play, explore, and embrace the unexpected as children do. Replace self-doubt with a sense of wonder and excitement, treating every challenge as an opportunity to discover something new.
Practice Daydreaming and Visualisation
Let your mind wander intentionally or visualise your goals to create mental blueprints for action. Imagine scenarios where your ideas succeed, and let yourself feel the excitement of those outcomes. Create vision boards or use visualisation techniques to bring abstract ideas to life. Allowing yourself to dream freely paves the way for actionable insights and motivation
Challenge Your Patterns
Step out of your comfort zone by trying something new or solving problems in unconventional ways. Mix up your routine to break monotony, such as working in a different environment or learning a new process. Embrace challenges that force you to think differently, like puzzles or creative exercises. Shifting your habits disrupts automatic thinking and opens pathways to imaginative solutions.
Embrace Mindfulness
Stay present and observe the world around you. This helps you notice ideas and connections that might otherwise be missed. Practice techniques like deep breathing or meditation to calm your mind and create mental clarity. Pay attention to small details in your surroundings like colours, textures, sounds etc and let them inspire new thoughts. A mindful state often leads to surprising flashes of creativity.
By incorporating these practices into your daily life, you can cultivate a vibrant imagination that fuels creativity, inspires innovation, and drives success. Whether you’re building a business, solving a problem, or dreaming of a better future, imagination is the ultimate tool to bring your vision to life.
Meet the incredibly talented and inspiring Indian Classical Dancer & Entrepreneur Pallavi Bhagavath, whose passion for dance and dedication to her craft have made her a remarkable figure in her community. As the owner of the thriving Natyokthi dance school (https://natyokthi.com), she not only teaches the art of movement but also instills confidence and creativity in each of her students. Her journey as both a dancer and businesswoman reflects her resilience, as she has overcome challenges and pursued her dreams with unwavering commitment. Through her school, she creates a nurturing environment where dancers of all ages can learn, express themselves, and grow. Her energy and love for dance are contagious, inspiring those around her to reach their fullest potential, both on and off the stage.
Here is an interview with her:
Who or what inspired you to pursue a career in dance, and start your own dance school?
From a very young age, dance became an inseparable part of my life. At just 3 years old, I would make everyone sit around me while I danced for hours, captivating their attention. As I grew, it became clear to everyone around me that dance and I were inseparable. My father frequently spoke of Dr. Padma Subrahmanyam and her body of work, which deepened my passion for classical dance and inspired me to pursue it even further.
What impact do you hope your dance school has on your students, both in terms of dance and personal growth?
Thank you for this question. There’s often a misconception that only those who “can dance” should learn dance. Dancing gracefully is one aspect, and performance is just a part of what dance encompasses. Historically, dance, music, and yoga were integral to the 64 subjects taught in Gurukul, aiming for holistic development.
At Natyokthi, we emphasize teaching both the practical and theoretical foundations, helping students understand the science behind the art form. This deeper knowledge often inspires them, fostering a sense of appreciation for what they learn. Each level of learning is evaluated by a UGC-recognized board from India, which validates their progress and encourages them to pursue their studies with confidence.
Through Nrutha, we align the body, and through Nrutya, we align the mind and emotions. With higher aspects of learning, students learn tuning their energy which not only refines their dance skills but also equips them with life tools, such as:
Physical benefits: Agility, strength, and bodily awareness
Mental growth: Developing emotional intelligence and focus
Energetic alignment: Understanding teamwork, motivation, and a sense of belonging in the universe, all while gaining clarity and fulfillment in life.
This holistic approach nurtures personal growth that extends beyond dance into every aspect of life.
Where do you see yourself ten years from now?
In ten years, I don’t have specific tangible milestones, but my vision is clear. I see myself nurturing my students not only into skilled teachers, but more importantly, into compassionate and holistic individuals who will contribute meaningfully to society with an inclusive outlook.
One of my concerns is the dilution of classical art forms like Bharatanatyam, music, and yoga. Today, with so much accessible online, anyone can copy from YouTube or piece together information from the internet and claim expertise, passing on incomplete knowledge to the next generation. This is a frightening prospect.
To ensure that students in Australia and New Zealand receive a structured, validated education in these art forms, Natyokthi has become a center for the Sanchari Kala Parishad, a UGC-recognized board from India. We conduct exams and provide certifications for students pursuing dance, music, and other Indian fine arts.
As the Maha pracharak or head of this exam center for Australia and New Zealand my goal is to reach as many students as possible through their teachers, encouraging them to take up these exams. This not only validates their learning but also ensures that they receive the full benefits and understanding of these rich cultural art forms.
What advice would you give to aspiring dancers who are looking to pursue dance as a profession?
My advice to aspiring dancers is to learn your craft thoroughly and focus on mastering the basics. It’s important to pursue formal exams and certifications so that your learning holds value and can be recognized.
Beyond technique, dance is about understanding its deeper nuances. Observe, listen, and feel the art—there is much more to it than simply moving from one position to another. Pass on the knowledge with passion and dedication.
● 1/4 from fellow dancers, books, and observation,
● And the final 1/4 over time through life’s experiences and evolving.
Practically speaking, I hope society continues to appreciate the value of fine arts, allowing students to pursue dance as a professional path—whether as teachers, performers, or both.
Be organized and creative. Even the Natya Shastraemphasizes the need to be skilled in various aspects, from stage management to handling finances. With that balance of artistry and practical skills, you can truly excel.
As the vibrant hues of spring bloom around us, there’s no better time to refresh your wardrobe and embrace the season’s lively energy. ‘Spring Enchantment’ – our latest Spring Fashion Feature in collaboration with She Magazine (https://www.shemagazine.com.au/empowered-elegance-spring-fashion-that-tells-a-story), celebrates exactly that, an explosion of florals, bright colours, and effortlessly chic styles that capture the essence of spring.
Alpana Srivastava
From floral dresses that sway with the breeze to bold, eye-catching outfits that turn heads, our lookbook offers a glimpse into the diverse styles our members have embraced this season.
Louise Veronica
Dive into the beauty of the season with our feature of stunning outfits, where traditional meets modern chic. From blazers paired with pants for a sharp, sophisticated look to bright ethnic wear to elegant spring dresses, our members show how fashion can be both empowering and joyful.
Neha Masharuwala
Uthra Raghavasimhan
Preeti Arora
We invite you to explore the creativity, elegance, and vibrancy in each look, as our members flaunt their unique styles, proving that fashion is not just about clothes but a celebration of confidence, individuality, and self-expression.
Smitha Sharma
Alaka Satapathy
Get inspired by their bold combinations and check out the full gallery to refresh your spring wardrobe with flair!
The purpose of our fashion features, photoshoots, online magazine issues etc, is to empower and uplift women through fashion and make them feel confident about themselves. Another purpose is to provide a platform for women in the fashion & beauty industry to showcase their talents, skills and products.
The ‘Spring Elegance’ event, organised by Empowered BWB and She Magazine, was a beautiful gathering that embodied the vibrant spirit of the season. Held in the heart of spring, the event brought together a diverse group of women who arrived in stunning floral and colourful outfits, perfectly complementing the surroundings. The atmosphere was one of joy and renewal, as attendees engaged in meaningful conversations, laughter, and shared experiences.
The event brought together women of all ages and walks of life, creating a beautiful mosaic of experiences and perspectives. From young professionals to seasoned entrepreneurs, each woman embraced the day with open hearts, sharing stories and inspiration. The diversity in the room only added to the richness of the conversations, as women connected over shared passions and life journeys.
The vibrant floral outfits and lively conversations mirrored the blossoming season, filling the air with a sense of renewal and energy. The lighthearted fun, and meaningful connections made everyone feel refreshed, as if they were blossoming alongside the season’s flowers.
A special thanks goes out to Shilpa Kotak, owner of Shilpa’s Veg Delectable and Shilpa’s Toukree, who contributed an array of delicious sweets and snacks. Her treats were the perfect accompaniment to the day, adding to the indulgent yet uplifting vibe of the gathering.
Overall, ‘Spring Elegance’ was not just a celebration of the season but of the power of women coming together, sharing laughter, stories, and creating lasting memories. It was a moment where everyone left feeling refreshed, inspired, and ready to bloom.
“My passion for cooking comes to life with Vanitha’s Kitchen, alongside my career as a junior architect. I have nurtured a deep love for food, dedicating myself to mastering both traditional and innovative culinary techniques. Specialising in both South and North Indian dishes, I bring the rich flavours of traditional food to life through a blend of best quality and fresh ingredients. Cooking for me is an expression of love and creativity, where each meal is crafted to bring people together and celebrate the joy of food.” – Vanitha.
Here is an interview with her:
What or who inspired you to start Vanitha’s Kitchen, and what do you hope people take away from the meals you create?
Vanitha’s Kitchen was born from my deep-rooted passion for cooking, which stems from my early experiences in the kitchen, where I found joy in experimenting with flavours and ingredients. My skills as a junior architect have also played a key role in shaping my approach to cooking, allowing me to blend creativity and precision in my meals. The combination of these two passions, architecture and cooking, fuelled my desire to create a space where culinary artistry meets thoughtful design.
I hope that through my dishes, people take away more than just a delicious meal. I want them to experience the love and care that goes into every recipe and to feel the warmth of home in each bite. Whether it’s a comforting family favourite or an adventurous new dish, I aim to inspire others to appreciate food as both nourishment and a form of creative expression.
Cooking is often seen as an art. How do you express your creativity through the dishes you prepare, and what’s your process for developing new recipes?
At Vanitha’s Kitchen, “The Art of Taste” is at the core of everything I do. My creativity shines through in the unique flavour combinations and the beautiful presentation of each dish. An open secret behind my cooking is the use of quality, fresh ingredients and the traditional way of using spices, carefully balancing them to enhance, not overpower, the natural flavours. When developing new recipes, I start with an inspiring flavour concept and experiment with ingredients and techniques, fine-tuning the dish until it achieves the perfect harmony of taste, texture, and presentation. Combining tradition with creativity, I aim to make every meal a flavourful experience.
As someone passionate about bringing people together through food, what’s your memorable experience of cooking for others?
One of my most memorable experiences of cooking for others has been participating in major Indian events with up to 500 people, such as Ugadi 2023, Ganesh Festival 2024, TDP Party NTR Birthday Celebrations 2024, and Navratri Dandiya Night 2024. I also love catering for housewarming parties, handling orders for 30-60 people, which allows me to take the stress off the hosts and enable them to truly enjoy the occasion with friends and family. Some of my favourite memories include cooking for birthday parties and family get-togethers, where the joy of sharing a meal brings everyone closer. This is proven by the kind of reviews and recommendations shared on my Facebook page, where I cherish the feedback from those I’ve cooked for. It’s those moments of connection that fuel my passion for bringing people together through food.
What does a typical day look like for you?
A typical day for me begins early as I juggle the responsibilities of managing two kids, one in high school and the other just starting daycare. My husband helps by dropping off and picking up the kids for now until I get my driver’s license. After getting everyone up and ready, I prepare breakfast and ensure they have everything they need for the day ahead.
Once they’re off, I shift my focus to the kitchen. During the day, I plan and prep for upcoming events or orders at Vanitha’s Kitchen, experimenting with new recipes and ensuring I have fresh, quality ingredients on hand. I also manage any administrative tasks related to the business.
In the afternoon, I help my high schooler with homework when they return, while my husband takes care of the little one. I then shift back to cooking, preparing dinner while enjoying family time. After dinner, we often gather together to share stories about our day, making sure to enjoy those precious moments before bedtime. It’s a busy but fulfilling routine that keeps me grounded and inspired!
The “Inspire & Thrive” August 2024 event organised by Empowering BWB in collaboration with She Magazine, Usana Australia & The Usana Foundation, focusing on mental, physical, and spiritual wellness, was a great success, leaving attendees inspired and rejuvenated. The day was filled with insightful discussions, practical demonstrations, and moments of deep reflection, all centered around the theme of holistic well-being.
Tiya Gorain shared about her ongoing work alongside Alpana Srivastava to support, empower, and uplift women, emphasising the importance of community and solidarity in overcoming challenges and achieving personal & professional growth.
Tiya Gorain
Mercedes Durante, who served as the emcee, did a stellar job in guiding the flow of the event, ensuring that each segment resonated with the audience.
Mercedes Durante
The extremely talented speakers Nirmit Nanda, Patricia Martinez, Casey Zhang, Sam Lee, Ash Sundaram, Uthra Raghavasimhan, Shirley Chan & Harmohan Walia covered a broad spectrum of topics that are crucial in today’s fast-paced world. From addressing the effects of social isolation on mental health to exploring new business opportunities and the vital role of creativity in fostering happiness, as well as beauty, skincare & wellness, the talks were both engaging and enlightening.
Lydia’s meditation session provided a much-needed pause in the day’s activities. Her calming presence and soothing guidance allowed everyone to experience a deep sense of relaxation and mindfulness, setting the tone for the remainder of the event.
Lydia Binil
Another standout moment was Shilpa Kotak’s cooking demonstration. Attendees were not only treated to a live display of how to prepare healthy, delicious meals but were also able to savour the dishes afterward. The demo was a hit, highlighting the importance of nutrition in overall wellness.
Shilpa Kotak
“Inspire & Thrive” brought together individuals from various walks of life, all united by a common goal: to learn, grow, thrive together, inspire and be inspired. The positive energy and enthusiasm were palpable, leaving everyone looking forward to future events that continue this journey of wellness and empowerment.
Many thanks to Harmohan Walia for the awesome photos. Many thanks to Sarita Verma for her unconditional help and support. Many thanks to the Usana team for sponsoring prizes for the lucky draw and for all the support.
Meet our member Lydia Binil, an inspirational figure who has dedicated her life to empowering others to achieve success. As a renowned success mentor and business success & money block coach, Lydia has transformed the lives of countless individuals by helping them overcome obstacles and unlock their full potential. Her unique approach combines practical strategies with deep personal insights, guiding her clients toward lasting success. To learn more about her incredible journey and the wisdom she shares, we encourage everyone to read her insightful interview:
Tell us a bit about yourself. What you do, your hobbies, dreams, aspirations, etc
My name is Lydia Binil, and I am a Success Mentor and Business Success & Money Block Coach. I help ambitious entrepreneurs and professionals achieve their highest potential in their careers, businesses, relationships, and health using The MAP METHOD™️. I’m passionate about transforming lives by helping individuals clear trauma, release limiting beliefs, and unlock their inner genius. My hobbies include cooking, which is my go-to for exploring different cuisines and quickly preparing meals for my family. I also love spending quality time with my two cheeky children. My dream is to help 1 million entrepreneurs overcome their blocks and achieve financial success, and I aspire to create a global impact by guiding others to live their most abundant and fulfilling lives.
Who or what inspired you to become a life coach and meditation teacher?
My journey into life coaching and meditation was inspired by my own experiences and challenges. Overcoming personal obstacles and transforming my own life led me to discover the power of subconscious rewiring and holistic approaches. My mentor, Colette Streicher, played a significant role in shaping my path, teaching me the profound impact of The MAP METHOD™️. Witnessing the incredible transformations in my own life, I felt called to share these techniques with others, helping them unlock their potential and achieve success in every area of life.
What are the most common challenges your clients face, and how do you help them overcome these challenges?
My clients often struggle with procrastination, financial blocks, unresolved trauma, limiting beliefs, impostor syndrome, work-life balance, overwhelm, burnout, self-sabotage, and inconsistent business growth. To help them overcome these challenges, I use The MAP METHOD™️ along with other transformative techniques to address the root causes. By working with the superconscious mind, we clear deep-seated blocks and rewiring patterns, allowing clients to experience effortless sales, consistent client flow, high-quality opportunities, increased joy, and freedom of time. The results are sustainable, leading to a more peaceful and successful life.
How do you integrate meditation practices into your life coaching sessions?
Meditation is a cornerstone of my coaching approach. I integrate meditation practices to help clients connect with their inner selves, reduce stress, and cultivate a state of peace and clarity. In my sessions, I often guide clients through MAP sessions, subliminal recordings, and conscious exercises like mirror exercises inspired by Louise Hay. These practices help clients access their subconscious mind, release resistance, and create a healthier and more balanced life. Meditation also plays a crucial role in enhancing focus, fostering self-awareness, and nurturing a positive mindset.
How do you handle difficult or resistant clients who may be skeptical of the benefits of life coaching or meditation?
When working with clients who may be skeptical or resistant, I approach the situation with empathy and understanding. I take the time to listen to their concerns and validate their feelings. Often, I start by sharing success stories and evidence-based results that demonstrate the effectiveness of life coaching and meditation. I also invite them to try small, manageable practices that allow them to experience the benefits firsthand. Building trust and creating a safe space for exploration is key, and I remain patient and supportive throughout their journey, helping them gradually open up to new possibilities.
Can you recommend any resources, such as books or apps, for beginners interested in meditation?
For beginners interested in meditation, I recommend starting with books like “The Power of Now” by Eckhart Tolle, which teaches the importance of living in the present moment, and “The Miracle of Mindfulness” by Thich Nhat Hanh, which offers practical guidance on incorporating mindfulness into daily life. Additionally, apps like Headspace and Insight Timer are great tools for guided meditations, especially for those new to the practice. These resources provide a gentle introduction to meditation, helping individuals develop a consistent practice and experience its transformative benefits.
Overcoming Unsupportive Behaviour: A Crucial Step in Entrepreneurial Success
Starting a business is an exhilarating yet daunting endeavour. For many entrepreneurs, the hardest part isn’t the market competition or securing funds—it’s facing unsupportive behaviour from friends and family. This lack of support can be disheartening, especially when those closest to you seem unwilling to stand behind your dreams.
Recently, we had a conversation with a business coaching client who expressed this very struggle. Despite her excitement and dedication, her friends and family were not supportive. Some even refused to share her social media posts, opting instead to promote big, expensive brands. This scenario is all too common and can significantly impact an entrepreneur’s morale. Here are some strategies to help overcome such challenges and move forward with confidence and resilience.
1. Seek External Support Networks
One of the most effective ways to counteract unsupportive behaviour is to build new networks. Join local business groups, attend industry conferences, and participate in online forums. These platforms are filled with like-minded individuals who understand the entrepreneurial journey. Networking with fellow entrepreneurs can provide the encouragement and advice you need.
2. Focus on Your Why
Remembering why you started your business can be a powerful motivator. Reflect on your goals and the passion that drives you. This intrinsic motivation can help you stay focused and resilient, regardless of external support. Keep a journal or vision board that highlights your objectives and achievements to remind yourself of your purpose.
3. Educate and Communicate
Sometimes, friends and family may not understand the significance of their support or how they can help. Educate them about your business and its potential impact. Communicate clearly and express how their support, even in small ways like sharing a post, can make a big difference. People are often more willing to help when they understand the stakes.
4. Celebrate Small Wins
Acknowledge and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small. This practice not only boosts your morale but also demonstrates progress to your circle. When others see tangible results, they may become more inclined to support your efforts. Share your successes on social media and in conversations, showcasing your hard work and dedication.
5. Set Boundaries
It’s essential to protect your emotional well-being. Set boundaries with those who are consistently negative or unsupportive. Surround yourself with positive influences and minimise interactions that drain your energy. This doesn’t mean cutting ties completely, but rather prioritising relationships that uplift and encourage you.
6. Leverage Professional Help
Consider seeking advice from mentors, business coaches, or therapists. Professional guidance can provide new perspectives and strategies for dealing with unsupportive behavior. A mentor or coach can offer tailored advice based on their own experiences, while a therapist can help you develop coping mechanisms for emotional stress.
7. Embrace Resilience and Adaptability
Every entrepreneur faces setbacks and challenges. Developing resilience and adaptability is crucial for long-term success. View unsupportive behavior as a test of your commitment and use it to strengthen your resolve. Adapt your strategies and remain flexible in the face of adversity.
8. Harness the Power of Social Media
If friends and family won’t share your posts, reach out to broader online communities. Utilise social media platforms to connect with potential customers, influencers, and supporters who align with your brand. Engaging content, consistent posting, and genuine interaction can help you build a loyal online following.
Unsupportive behaviour from friends and family can be a significant hurdle in the entrepreneurial journey. However, by seeking external support, focusing on your why, educating those around you, celebrating small wins, setting boundaries, leveraging professional help, embracing resilience, and harnessing social media, you can overcome this challenge. Remember, every successful entrepreneur has faced obstacles—it’s how you handle them that defines your success.
Your journey is unique, and the support you need is out there. Keep pushing forward, and let your passion and determination light the way.
By following these strategies, our client was able to move past the initial disappointment and find the support she needed to thrive. Every entrepreneur can turn unsupportive behaviour into a stepping stone towards success with the right mindset and approach.
Juggling Backpacks and Boardrooms: A Q&A with Mompreneur Alaka
Alaka Satapathy
Imagine this: you’re leading a high-powered meeting, navigating the ever-changing world of digital marketing. Then, the whistle blows and it’s off to soccer practice, homework battles, and bedtime stories. That’s the dynamic life of Alaka, a digital marketing whiz and the founder of the thriving agency, Digiware. But Alaka’s journey wasn’t always sunshine and success. It’s a story of resilience, reinvention, and a whole lot of chai (because, let’s be honest, which homepreneur doesn’t run on chai?). We sat down with Alaka to chat about her inspiring journey, the challenges she’s faced, and the exciting future ahead for her and her agency.
Q: Alaka, you have a background in engineering. What made you take the leap into digital marketing and entrepreneurship?
Alaka: (laughs) Believe it or not, I was actually on the train tracks for dentistry! Though neurosurgery was the ultimate dream, engineering, specifically the hardcore world of software & coding, became my reality. But even then, there was always a creative streak. I remember my first poem published in the Times of India at the age of 7? That love for writing never truly left. Fast forward nine years, and I’m on maternity leave with my first child. It was during this time that I rediscovered that spark. I started creating content, and that, I believe, was the seed for my future entrepreneurial adventure.
Q: You mentioned maternity leave. How did motherhood shape your decision to start your own agency?
Alaka: Absolutely. After my second son arrived, the corporate world just didn’t feel like the right fit anymore. I craved the flexibility and freedom to build something of my own, something that would allow me to be present for my boys. And that’s how Digiware was born!
Q: But we know the journey isn’t always smooth. You faced a personal setback in 2022 with the loss of your father. How did that impact your business?
Alaka: (voice softening) The year 2022 was incredibly difficult. My dad was diagnosed with cancer, and the following year was a battle we ultimately lost. It was a time of immense personal grief, and it undeniably affected my business. The emotional toll, combined with the demands of motherhood, went largely unnoticed. I had to make some tough decisions, including downsizing the team. Rebuilding felt daunting, but here’s the thing: there’s a fighter in me.
Q: How did you find the strength to rebuild?
Alaka: I knew I had to seek help. But most importantly, I had my beautiful boys, my supportive husband, and a burning desire to not just survive, but to thrive. It wasn’t easy, but one step at a time, I started picking up the pieces.
Q: You juggle a lot, Alaka – from boardrooms to backpacks, as you put it. How do you maintain that balance?
Alaka: (smiles) My days can be a whirlwind! Early mornings might involve meetings, client calls, and strategizing with my team. Then it’s all about school runs, activity juggling, and ensuring a healthy dinner on the table. But hey, there’s always time for a steaming cup of chai – or coffee, depending on the day! Weekends, on the other hand, are for either kids sports or family adventures. Camping trips, coastal walks, and mountain hikes – that’s where you’ll find me recharging with my loved ones.
Q: Let’s talk about your agency, Digiware. What sets you apart from other digital marketing agencies?
Alaka: I see businesses struggle every day. They try to handle web design, SEO, digital marketing, and social media marketing themselves, or they outsource to India or the Philippines to save money. But here’s the biggest challenge: understanding the local market. That’s why we believe marketing must be localized for your target audience.
As much as I love to say marketing is an investment, I understand it can be difficult when you’re just growing your business. At Digiware, we acknowledge that struggle, and we stand with all SMEs. We have a talented team at offshore, but I personally handle the marketing strategy for each client. I do extensive research on the local market before we even start crafting strategies or suggesting improvements.
**For example, I once met a client who wanted a full SEO package. While I understood his desire, I also saw a bigger need. We invested in a lead generation campaign instead. He…invested in a lead generation campaign instead. He still had his SEO team in India, but the lead gen campaign gave him a significant financial boost. This success story allowed him to move his entire marketing budget to Digiware, because he finally understood the value of targeted marketing strategies.
Q: So, Alaka, what are some key pieces of advice you’d give to small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) looking to navigate the digital marketing landscape?
Alaka: First and foremost, don’t be afraid to invest in your marketing, but be a smart investor. Trying to do everything yourself or relying solely on cheap, outsourced labor might seem appealing initially, but it can backfire. Find a marketing partner who understands your local market and can create a customized strategy to reach your target audience.
Second, embrace data! In today’s digital world, data is king. Track your results, analyze what’s working and what’s not, and be willing to adapt your strategy accordingly. A good marketing agency will be your guide through this data jungle, helping you make informed decisions to maximize your return on investment (ROI).
Finally, remember that marketing is a marathon, not a sprint. Building a strong online presence takes time and effort. Be patient, stay consistent with your efforts, and trust the process. With the right strategy and a dedicated partner, you’ll see results and achieve your marketing goals.
Q: Looking ahead, Alaka, what does the future hold for Digiware?
Alaka: The future is bright! We’re constantly growing and evolving, expanding our team to serve more clients and develop even more innovative marketing solutions. But at the heart of it all, we’ll never lose sight of our core values: providing personalized service, prioritizing local market understanding, and empowering SMEs to achieve online success. We believe that every business, big or small, deserves a chance to thrive in the digital age, and we’re here to make that happen.
So, if you’re an SME owner feeling overwhelmed by the digital marketing world, reach out to Digiware! We’d love to chat about your business goals and see how we can help you take your marketing to the next level.
Q: You mentioned your love for chai. Do you have any other rituals or habits that keep you focused and energized, especially on those busy days?
Alaka: (chuckles) Chai is definitely a constant companion, but it’s more than just a drink – it’s a moment of mindfulness. In the mornings, it’s a quiet time to gather my thoughts and plan the day ahead. In the afternoons, a steaming cup can be a quick pick-me-up between meetings. But beyond chai, I find that staying active is crucial. Early morning workout in gym 9weights my fav..), walks or yoga sessions help me clear my head and find focus. And of course, there’s nothing like quality time with my family to recharge my batteries. Evenings spent playing with my boys, sharing stories, watching superheros on Netflix (the most recent being Flash) and simply being present in the moment – that’s what truly energizes me.
Q: Alaka, you’re an inspiration to aspiring mompreneurseverywhere. What would you say is the most valuable lesson you’ve learned on your entrepreneurial journey?
Alaka: The most valuable lesson? It’s okay to not have all the answers. There will be bumps along the road, moments of doubt, and unexpected challenges. The key is to embrace the learning process, be willing to adapt, and never give up on your dreams. Surround yourself with supportive people – a spouse, a mentor, a network of fellow entrepreneurs. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, and remember, there’s no shame in course-correcting when needed. The most successful businesses are rarely built overnight, and the most inspiring journeys are often the ones with the most unexpected twists and turns.
Q: Before we wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
Alaka: Absolutely! To all the women out there juggling motherhood, careers, and personal aspirations, I want to say this: you can achieve anything you set your mind to. Believe in yourself, don’t be afraid to break boundaries, and chase your dreams with passion and perseverance. The world needs your unique voice, your talents, and your unwavering spirit. So go forth and conquer, and remember, there’s a whole village of women cheering you on, me included!
Empowered Brave Women Building Futures 