Bollywood Celebrities Who Sought Entrepreneurship

Inspiring Stories

12 November 2016

Bollywood Celebrities Who Sought Entrepreneurship

  • Posted by Awfis Editorial

bollywood-celebrities-who-sought-entrepreneurship

“Do what you love,” is a principle most entrepreneurs live by. Many Bollywood celebrities follow the same thought. Apart from their booming career in show business, they have various other interests that they have pursued. Some have survived the rigour of entrepreneurial life to form successful businesses and brands that are now known widely.

#1. Salman Khan’s Being Human

Salman Khan successfully used his stardom and image as a “mass man” to propagate his charitable trust, Being Human. It works towards providing education and healthcare to underprivileged children. The Trust also leveraged Salman Khan’s image in the eyes of the masses. An interesting revenue model was all this foundation needed to reach great heights. Salman Khan entered a licensing agreement with Mandhana Industries Ltd. In 2009 he released the Being Human fashion line during the India Couture week. The brand has been performing exponentially well ever since. It launched in Europe in 2012. Since 2015 it has been available online as well as in exclusive retail stores in Europe, India, Middle East, Nepal and South Africa. All of the royalties received go towards the Being Human cause. Being Human Clothing is now a Rs. 100 crore brand. His revenue model and his stardom are a combination that can only make success an unstoppable feat.

#2. Shekhar Kapoor and A.R. Rahman’s- Qyuki

A.R. Rahman’s passion for music and creation is well known amongst most Indians. Therefore it was not surprising when he collaborated with Shekhar Kapoor and Samir Bangara to start a new Social Media platform for creators called Qyuki. Qyuki invites inventors to use its wide variety of facilities (recording rooms, animators, etc.) for free to create their content and show case it on the website. Sometimes it reserves the Intellectual Property rights and helps in the distribution process as well. To further satisfy his passion for music, A.R. Rahman launched Jammin’ through Qyuki. With Jammin’, musicians from the Bollywood industry could scout talent on YouTube to create a musical blend never seen before by India. This also gave Bollywood a chance to move away from mainstream music and explore a plethora of options. Qyuki can connect creators with organisations and vice versa. This is a one stop shop for Indian creators to sign up and launch their careers with a strong starting point.

#3. Deepika Padukone’s Live, Love, Laugh Foundation

The story behind the start of this organisation is a very famous one. Deepika Padukone being a victim of depression herself has established this foundation to help all those who suffer from the same predicament. This is a cause that ignites a lot of passion and has been overlooked in the Indian Society. Recently they have come up with two major campaigns ‘You are not alone’ and ‘More than just sad’ that assure depression victims that there is genuine help and a group of people who understand their adversities. Queen of Bollywood by profession and social entrepreneur by heart, Deepika Padukone has definitely made her mark on the world.

#4. Kunal Kapoor’s Ketto

Kunal Kapoor was determined to support charities when he started Ketto along with his partner Varun Seth in December 2012. Ketto is a crowdfunding platform where anyone can connect with and support charities by donating to them. More than 500 campaigns are thriving with the help of Ketto. It has the power to save lives and make community fundraising a simpler process for NGOs. The simple procedure of setting up your campaign and active members allow for generating quick funds during emergencies. Whether it is supporting a loved one during times of trouble or fundraising for a social organization, this platform is effective in solving any dilemmas.

#5. Malaika Arora, Sussane Khan and Bipasha Basu’s The Label Life

Through their style, business acumen and charm, these three strong Bollywood personalities have started a business that caters to their primary interest: Fashion. Whether it is fashion at home or fashion outside, you can rely on their store, The Label Life, for an eclectic and elegant collection of home décor, clothes, shoes and accessories. Their main aim is to promote an inspired life filled with style.

#6. Ronit Roy’s Ace Security and Protection Agency

Ronit Roy’s ownership of a security agency was an unexpected surprise. His highly sophisticated connections in the Bollywood industry landed the agency many high profile clients like Yashraj Studios, Amir Khan Productions and Ashutosh Gowarikar Productions. They have also been of service to many Hollywood celebrities such as Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie, Naomi Campbell and John Travolta through their visits to India.

Several celebrities are turning to social entrepreneurship to support causes they truly care about. Some are using entrepreneurship to support their industry while some are exploring extremely different interests. There are countless celebrities such as Shah Rukh Khan, Malaika Arora, Shilpa Shetty who have started their own enterprises that are thriving. Following their heart and taking a calculated risk comes naturally to so many of India’s personalities. There is certainly something to learn from how they leverage their passion and personal brand to achieve their business goals.

Entrepreneurs are not made, they are born. You need to find the right inspiration for it and for that you need a right working space. Choose co-working space in Churchgate, Mumbai or shared office space in Connaught Place, New Delhi

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.

Creating community in coworking: The importance of networking and collaboration

Inspiring Stories

31 May 2024

Creating community in coworking: The importance of networking and collaboration

  • Posted by Awfis Editorial

Consider this scenario: you pull yourself away from the dull light of your laptop at home, needing human interaction. Instead of deadly silence or fluorescent-lit boredom, you walk into a hive of pulsating activity. Freelancers with computers gather around a whiteboard, and a graphic designer laughs with a content writer.


This, my friend, is the magic of a successful coworking space. It’s more than simply a shared workspace; it’s a hub for connection, collaboration, and the kind of energy that drives both personal and professional development. Here’s the secret ingredient: the coworking environment.

This vibrant network of people from various backgrounds becomes the throbbing core of any outstanding coworking space. It’s where accidental discussions create game-changing ideas, and solopreneurs join a supportive network that serves as a launchpad for aspirations and an infinite source of inspiration. Unlike traditional office cubicles, coworking spaces bring together a diverse range of skills and viewpoints, producing a community co-working environment in which people actively collaborate rather than simply coexist.

Understanding Community in Coworking Spaces:

Imagine a place where the barista recalls your coffee order and a friendly face gives assistance with a technological issue. That is the charm of a vibrant community office space. It’s a location where relationships extend beyond professional courtesy. It’s about being part of a supportive network that serves as a springboard for new ideas and a source of inspiration.


Coworking facilities, by definition, foster a sense of community. Unlike typical offices, where interactions are frequently limited to colleagues, coworking facilities bring together a diverse range of individuals. Freelancers, entrepreneurs, and remote workers all interact, creating a unique ecosystem of skills and perspectives. This group collaborates, not simply coexists.


The Power of Networking in Coworking Spaces

 The importance of networking cannot be emphasised. Coworking spaces offer unprecedented opportunity for making relationships. Networking opportunities abound, whether it’s a casual talk in the common area, participation in organised events, or joining industry-specific interest groups.

These relationships can lead to productive collaborations, strategic partnerships, and even useful mentorship possibilities. Consider a graphic designer interacting with a content writer for a collaborative project, or a seasoned entrepreneur advising a new startup founder. The opportunities for growth within a successful coworking community are limitless.


Fostering Collaboration Among Coworkers


A strong coworking community is not formed overnight. Creating a collaborative environment demands a purposeful effort. Here are some approaches to make this happen. 

Organise Regular Events: Host workshops, networking mixers, or social gatherings to get people together and break the ice. These gatherings allow participants to demonstrate their skills, learn from others, and develop rapport.


Embrace open design: Instead of isolated cubicles, aim for open floor patterns with collaborative workspaces. This creates a more collaborative environment, enabling spontaneous brainstorming and knowledge exchange.


Facilitate Mentorship Programmes: Connect experienced experts with those seeking advice. This not only encourages knowledge transmission, but also generates a sense of community and belonging.


Utilise Online Platforms: Set up an online forum or social media group where members can communicate, share resources, and stay informed about upcoming activities.


Building Strong Relationships in Coworking Communities


Building solid ties within your communal work space is critical to maximising its potential. 


Here are a few tips:


Be approachable: Strike up a conversation with other users, identify yourself, and express genuine interest in their work.


Offer Assistance: Do you have knowledge in a specific field? Offer to help a fellow member who is suffering with a related task. Remember that rising tides raise all boats!


Participate actively: Participate in events, conversations, and workshops. The more engaged you are, the stronger your connections will be.


Be a good listener: People appreciate those who genuinely listen. Pay attention to others’ problems and provide assistance whenever available.

Overcoming Challenges in Community Building


Building a successful coworking community is not without its hurdles. Here are a few hurdles and ways to get through them:


Interest Diversity: Catering to everyone’s interests might be tough when you have such a diverse group. Conduct surveys and collect member input to customise events and projects to their specific requirements.


Shyness or introversion: Not everyone thrives in social situations. Provide a mix of social and solitary work locations, and encourage networking opportunities that cater to various personalities.


Maintaining Momentum: Keeping the community engaged demands a consistent effort. To keep things interesting, plan regular events, launch new projects, and aggressively solicit member feedback.

Conclusion

In today’s increasingly computerised world, human connection is still vital. Coworking spaces provide a unique opportunity to create a thriving community co-working environment that encourages networking and collaboration. Coworking spaces may become hotbeds of invention, professional development, and long-lasting friendships by cultivating a welcoming and collaborative environment. So, instead of isolating yourself through remote work, embrace the power of community. Your neighbourhood coworking space is full of opportunities for collaboration.

5 things that every startup can learn from Shahrukh Khan’s journey

Inspiring Stories

25 August 2021

5 things that every startup can learn from Shahrukh Khan’s journey

  • Posted by awfis

Bollywood and Shahrukh Khan have long been synonymous. From stage plays in his early career to 80 iconic Indian films and global stardom for over more than a decade – the Indian actor, producer and television personality has made waves in every sphere of entertainment. But, every now and then, one will often find him reminiscing his modest roots.

If you’re launching your start –up, then you’re also most likely to find yourself in times of struggle and despair. But guess what? Even the King of Bollywood has been there and done that. Here are some of the most inspiring life lessons coming straight from the Superstar, that will help you “hang in there!”

Lesson 1: Sail away from your comfort zone

“Being brave means being shit scared all the way. But, don’t let your fears become boxes that enclose you. Open them up, feel them and turn them into the greatest courage you are capable of. I promise you, nothing will go wrong. But if you live by your fears, everything that can possibly go wrong will go wrong and you won’t even have done the Funky Chicken.”

Lesson 2: Embrace the madness in you

There’s no such thing as “normal”. That’s just another word for lifeless. Madness is an absolute prerequisite to a happy and successful life. Don’t ever treat your little insanities as if they are aberrations that ought to be hidden. Acknowledge them and use them to define your own way of living the only life you have. All the most beautiful people in the world, the most creative, the ones who led revolutions, who discovered and invented things, did so because they embraced their own idiosyncrasies.”

Lesson 3: Don’t panic ever – just be positive

“When life hits you with all the force of its resplendent rage, the Rolls isn’t going to give you comfort. A friend’s grace will, and if you can’t find resolution as easily as you would like to, don’t panic. Everything evolves as you go along. Even disasters eventually resolve themselves. Give life the space to move at its own pace, pushing it ahead only by way of being kind to yourself when you are hurting or in despair.”

Life lesson 4: Ignore the naysayers

“All the names you give yourself, or those that others call you, are just labels. You are not defined by them, no matter how flattering or uncomplimentary they are. What defines you is your heart. And I say this out of experience because if I was to go by what all I am called on Social Media I would be an old desperate manipulative that has been star who swings both ways while making crap movies, and these are just the good mentions.”

Lesson 5: Stop whining and start moving

“Whatever it is that is pulling you back, it’s not going away unless you stand up and start forging your own path with all your might in the opposite direction. Don’t attach yourself to either sadness or happiness, they’re both going to change with the same certitude. Take them with the ephemeral spirit of their impermanence and manage them with a healthy dose of good humour.”

Here’s what you need first – a office space, co-working space in Qutab, New Delhi or business centre in Koramangala, Bengaluru , where you can kickstart your startup.

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn

#FAQatAwfis: Who Is My Ideal Target Audience?

Inspiring Stories

25 August 2021

#FAQatAwfis: Who Is My Ideal Target Audience?

  • Posted by awfis

Q1. What is my first step at targeting audiences?

It’s important to create a “why us” value proposition for your product. Be ready to stay in test and refine mode, as you move forward. Many startups and entrepreneurs get so caught up in their business plan and trying to execute it, they forget the most important aspect, which is the market. It is important to move out of your cubicle and office space and go out and discover more.

Q2. Do I start small or look at the bigger market?

You definitely need to start with the smallest group possible. It may seem contradictory to many who are starting a business, but it’s vital to find a group who think what you offer is special. Finding a narrow group with extremely specific demographics or a specifically targeted problem is the key. It’s easy to expand your reach after you gain traction, but it’s always the best to be a big player in the smaller markets.

Q3. Is it vital to keep resources aside for my research or can I just analyze?

The customers who currently buy your product are your audience and it is extremely important to understand who they are, their characteristics and their buying patterns. Analyze the elements that worked with your marketing strategy that connected with your audience. It is obviously important to invest in customer relationship management software for small businesses. Use tools and software to see your customers’ geographic distribution, age range, habits and other valuable insights.

Q4. How important is it to study the role of my competitors in the industry?

If you’re lucky and blessed, you’ve invented a product that the world has never seen. However, it isn’t so easy always. It’s extremely important to check out the competition that sells similar products to yours. Look not only at the big players, but even the upcoming startups. Start thinking of ways that would persuade your customers to switch to your product. Make your product more desirable. Study your competitors and their success and how they connected to their audiences. Along with success, study their failures as well so you can avoid them.

Q5. How to create an audience profile?

The ideal customer profile contains not only demographic but also psychographic information. Demographics describe aspects like gender, age, income, marital status, job status, education levels, etc. Psychographics identify hobbies, behaviors, habits, lifestyle choices, values, and interests. It is also important to give equal weightage to both these factors as they go hand in hand.

Q6. What is my next step?

After you have figured your audience, it is important to envision your product and your company five years into the future. Both your business and your customers need to move forward in the same direction. Be aware of all the technology changes related to your product. And remember, as your business evolves, your customer base will also shift. But once you’ve found your target audience, the transition won’t be too difficult.

Hope this would guide you into finding the ideal audience, for more queries comment below!

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.

About

Locations

Products

© Awfis Space Solutions Limited