In the bustling city of Noida, where traditions of Uttar Pradesh and modernity of Nation’s capital blend seamlessly, one name stands out in the realm of entrepreneurship and social service—Abhishek S Chauhan. Born on August 22, 1984 at Kanpur to Mr. Yash Karan Singh and Mrs. Manjusha Devi Chauhan, Abhishek has carved a niche for himself in the business world over the last 15 years. His academic journey, professional accomplishments, and personal life paint a picture of a man deeply committed to both his career and community. In this candid interview, Abhishek shares his experiences, challenges, and aspirations.
Q: Abhishek, it’s a pleasure to have you with us. Can you tell us about your early life and the influences that shaped your career?
Abhishek S Chauhan (ASC): First of all, Thank you for having me. My early life was quite rooted in the rich culture and traditions of Kanpur. I was fortunate to be born into a supportive family; my parents, Late Mr. Yash Karan Singh and Mrs. Manjusha Devi Chauhan, always emphasized the importance of education and hard work. From a young age, I was exposed to various business ideas, thanks to my father’s entrepreneurial background. This exposure piqued my interest in the business world and laid the foundation for my career.
Q: Your educational background is quite diverse. Could you walk us through your academic journey?
ASC: Certainly. After completing my schooling in Kanpur, I pursued a BBA and a Graduate Diploma in Community Work from Agra University. My passion for understanding social structures and contributing to society led me to this field. Later, I moved to Melbourne, Australia, to attend La Trobe University, where I was studying a postgraduate degree in Finance and accounting which I left midway and got myself enrolled in Cambridge International College and obtained a diploma in social work. This experience broadened my perspective and deepened my understanding of global social issues. Recently, I completed an LLB, which I started during the COVID-19 pandemic, as I felt the need to understand the legal aspects of business and social work better.
Q: That’s an impressive educational background. How did your time in Australia influence your career and worldview?
ASC: My time in Australia was transformative. Being exposed to a different culture and educational system opened my eyes to various new ideas and approaches. The academic rigor at La Trobe University and the practical experience I gained at Cambridge International College helped me develop a more nuanced understanding of social work and business. Then I got an opportunity to work for Woolworths, one of the biggest FMCG companies of Australia and that helped gain invaluable insights about how customers should be your top priority. A happy customer is a returning customer and to have sustainable business you need them. This period also taught me the importance of adaptability and resilience, which have been invaluable in my career. Moreover, the global exposure I received made me more aware of the challenges and opportunities in the international market, shaping my entrepreneurial ventures back in India.
Q: You have been active in business for 15 years. Can you share some highlights and challenges from your journey?
ASC: The journey has been both rewarding and challenging. One of the highlights was launching my first business venture shortly after returning from Australia. The initial phase was full of learning curves, from understanding market dynamics to building a team. However, the most significant challenge was navigating the uncertainties during the COVID-19 pandemic. Like many others, our business faced disruptions, but it also provided an opportunity to innovate and adapt. I took this time to pursue my LLB, understanding that a strong legal foundation would be crucial in navigating future challenges. This decision proved beneficial, as it equipped me with the knowledge to make more informed business decisions.
Q: You mentioned your involvement in social work. How do you balance your business ventures with your commitment to social causes?
ASC: Balancing business and social work has always been a priority for me. I believe that as entrepreneurs, we have a responsibility to give back to society. My background in social work has always kept me grounded and reminded me of the importance of empathy and compassion. In my business ventures, I strive to incorporate ethical practices and contribute to community development. For instance, We as a family regularly engage in some sort of social welfare activities, focusing on Old age care and healthcare initiatives. Along with all this I also have a keen interest in SAAS ( Software as a service ) and I have helped many founders ( local and international ) launch their SAAS tools by helping them in strategizing their marketing. This is a pro bono kind of activity. My wife, Dr. Rashmi Gautam, has also been a great support in this regard. Her work in the medical field, as a professor and a doctor, aligns with our shared vision of making a positive impact.
Q: Speaking of your personal life, how has your journey with Dr. Rashmi Gautam influenced your path?
ASC: My journey with Rashmi has been incredibly fulfilling. We got married on January 20, 2012, and since then, we’ve shared a strong bond based on mutual respect and understanding. Rashmi’s dedication to her profession as an MBBS MD (pathology) doctor and her role as a professor in a medical college have been inspiring. Her compassion and commitment to her work have influenced me profoundly, and we often discuss ways to merge our respective fields to benefit society. Her insights, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, were invaluable, and she continues to be a pillar of strength in my personal and professional life.
Q: With such a diverse background and experience, what are your future plans and aspirations?
ASC: Looking ahead, I aim to expand my business ventures while continuing to contribute to social causes. I’m exploring opportunities that align with my interest in the D2C businesses. Currently I’m working on Two projects and both are very close to my heart. Out of those “The FarmPURE” will soon launch some pure and organic Food products and “Re:Earthy” is working towards bringing natural health care care products through dietary and health supplements. I’m also keen on leveraging my experience in social work to initiate projects that address pressing societal issues, particularly in education and healthcare. On a personal level, I hope to spend more time with my family and continue learning and growing.
Q: Finally, what advice would you give to young entrepreneurs ?
ASC: My advice would be to stay curious and never stop learning. The world is constantly changing, and it’s crucial to adapt and evolve. Make AI and Social media your best friend.
For entrepreneurs, it’s essential to have a clear vision but also be flexible enough to pivot when necessary. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and always prioritize ethical practices.
Conclusion
Abhishek S Chauhan’s journey is a testament to the power of education, resilience, and a commitment to serving others. His diverse experiences and dedication to both business and social work make him a role model for many. As he continues to navigate new challenges and opportunities, his story inspires those seeking to make a meaningful impact in their respective fields.
