She believes in taking each day as it comes and doesn't like to make long-term plans! In focus today is Kanupriya Agarwal, a young mother and entrepreneur who found a lacuna in options for children's eye care and turned it into a business opportunity! This is definitely enterprising!
Let's see what she has to say!
What line of work are you in?
I am an importer of Baby Banz in India. Banz is an Australian company which offers sun protection products for kids within the age group 0-10. We have sunglasses, hats, swim goggles, swim wear, shoes and much more.
I also manage networking groups by the names of Powai Women Networking and Women Entrepreneurs where we focus on play dates, picnics for children and organize workshops and fun meets for women.
How did the inspiration to be part of this industry come about?
After becoming a mother, I stopped wearing my sunglasses because my son didn’t have a pair! I didn’t feel it right to protect my eyes when I couldn’t protect his.
We (I and my husband) frantically searched for a good pair for him and surprisingly, in India, no company made 100% UV protected sunglasses for children. So we imported Baby Banz sunglasses for him from New Zealand when he was a year old.
We (my husband & I) knew that there will be many parents like us, who would want to give their children, nothing but the best! It was his idea to bring Banz’s products to India and soon we took upon the role of importing these. Banz has exceptional sunglasses, hats and swimwear for babies. Their sunglasses have been rated the best in the world for kids. The baby products industry is growing very fast in India but, there are still lot of products which are not available here. So, it is my son who inspired me to start this work.
Also, I love networking – that’s how my networking pages started. I see everyone likes to meet new people as well, but they don't really know how to find like-minded people. So I give them a platform to connect with others and enjoy a much deserved break.
What challenges do you need to overcome everyday to be successful in your area of work?
Our products are very different from what is available in the Indian market. So the challenge is to create demand for these by talking about the importance of sun protection for kids. It is not given much importance in India yet.
What do you think women entrepreneurs should focus on, to get ahead?
Networking is a must. Next comes managing time as we have to handle the home front, work as well as the kids.
What tips do you follow to maintain a good work-life balance?
Prioritize your tasks well in advance. You have to come out of your comfort zone if you want to achieve something so be prepared for it. Seek help when required.
How do you perceive yourself professionally in the next 5 years?
Honestly, I take each day as it comes. As unprofessional as it may sound, I don't make long term plans. I like to learn more than earn.