Yasmeen Delawala’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience and creativity. From the aftermath of the Gujarat earthquake to making waves in the fashion industry with Vivika, Yasmeen’s story is one of overcoming adversity and redefining success. Her path, marked by significant challenges and triumphs, offers valuable insights into entrepreneurship, passion, and perseverance.
From Gujarat to Hyderabad: A Journey of Transformation
Born in a small town in Gujarat, Yasmeen’s early life was shaped by significant events that would influence her future. The Gujarat earthquake and subsequent communal riots were pivotal moments that prompted her family’s relocation to Hyderabad. Initially pursuing a career in chartered accountancy Yasmeen’s true passion lay elsewhere. Her family’s textile business, which provided livelihood and growth to many, was a significant source of inspiration for her entrepreneurial dreams.
“I realized that while a career in accountancy was secure, it wasn’t where my heart was,” Yasmeen recalls. “Seeing my family’s business impact so many lives made me want to create something of my own.”
The Birth of Vivika
Yasmeen’s entrepreneurial journey began with the launch of Vivika, a fashion brand dedicated to bridging the gap between affordability and quality. Her initial focus was on basic wear, leveraging her family’s textile experience and her own creative insights into fashion. Despite facing setbacks and pandemic-related losses, Yasmeen’s determination never wavered.
“Starting Vivika was both exhilarating and challenging. The pandemic hit us hard, but it also forced me to rethink our strategies and adapt,” Yasmeen explains.
Navigating Challenges and Embracing Growth
One of Yasmeen’s significant challenges was operating in Hyderabad, a city not known for its textile production. She believes that being in a traditional textile hub like Ahmedabad or Surat might have accelerated her business growth, but she remains undeterred.
“Hyderabad has its own set of challenges, especially in terms of production. But I’m committed to making it work here while balancing my family life,” Yasmeen says. She emphasizes how her husband’s career and their child are integral to her life, and managing them alongside her business is a delicate balancing act.
Yasmeen’s approach to sustainability also reflects her commitment to responsible business practices. While Vivika cannot yet achieve full sustainability due to cost constraints, Yasmeen focuses on minimizing waste and adopting environmentally friendly methods, such as using dyeing units that recycle water.
Balancing Business and Family Life
Yasmeen has structured Vivika to function with minimal supervision, allowing her to spend quality time with her child. This approach is supported by her team, her husband and in-laws, who help maintain the balance between her personal and professional life.
“I’m fortunate to work from home and manage my business through phone calls and short meetings,” Yasmeen shares. “It’s about preparing my team to be independent and ensuring that I can be present for my family while steering the business forward.”
Expanding Horizons and Future Goals
Vivika’s journey is marked by a steady rise, with a turnover of 8 figures and an expected growth by 20% by the year’s end. Yasmeen’s focus is on the South Indian market, but she is aware of the potential for national expansion.
“While our current production capacity is limited, we are steadily growing our B2B and D2C markets,” Yasmeen explains. “I aim to double or even triple our sales, with a goal of reaching a nine-figure turnover within the next two years.”
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Yasmeen’s advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is clear and inspiring. “Passion and patience are key. Build the right network, take calculated risks, and always maintain your mental health. Do what you love, and be mindful of each day’s productivity to avoid regrets.”
She believes that a strong mental foundation is crucial for long-term success. “If you’re passionate about what you’re doing, don’t give up easily. Success will come with persistence, calculated risks, and a genuine love for the work.”
Yasmeen Delawala’s story is more than just a business success; it is a powerful narrative of overcoming obstacles, embracing growth, and staying true to one’s passions. Her journey with Vivika not only reflects her personal resilience but also serves as an inspiration for others. Yasmeen hopes her experiences can inspire even one person, emphasizing the importance of self-love and perseverance in achieving true fulfilment and success.
“Platforms like Indian Startup Times are invaluable for entrepreneurs like me, helping us share our stories and build our personal brands,” Yasmeen concludes. Her journey is a reminder that with passion, resilience, and a clear vision, remarkable transformations are possible.
