Meet Hemangi Shah, a versatile individual from Mumbai who, at 47, is an educator, counselor, games designer, and entrepreneur, all while balancing the roles of a mother, wife, and a guiding anchor for her community.
Tell us a bit about yourself and your family?
I am a 47-year-old educator, counselor, profile builder, and games designer from Mumbai. I also wear the hats of a mother, wife, and anchor for the people around me.
Have you had any formal training or family business?
I studied Commerce and used to assist my family and husband with accounting. However, at the age of 38, I ventured into the field of Education.
Without a Bachelor of Education degree, I pursued a Diploma in Teacher Training from Cambridge and obtained several certifications to better understand children.
I embarked on creating games for children and establishing my own company, armed only with my passion and a determination to learn at every step.
Tell us about your venture and what inspired you to take on this challenge and get started?
Prism Edutives creates board games that focus on developing thinking skills in children, with the aim of diverting them from digital gadgets. The concept is based on the idea of nurturing multiple intelligences.
I initially conducted thinking skills workshops and classes, even incorporating English language teaching with a unique twist.
A friend of mine recognized the brilliance of our idea and suggested turning it into board games.
Taking up the challenge, we founded Prism. I also completed a career counselor course because I believed it was essential to help students build their profiles without hefty costs and assist parents in understanding their children better.
What has been your proudest moment?
My proudest moment was when I was featured in Ahmedabad Times for my games.
Whenever a parent approaches me, saying that I've made a positive impact on their child, I feel a sense of pride.
When my children express their desire to emulate me, it fills me with pride as well. Another proud moment is the decision to pursue a Master's degree at the age of 47.
What are some of the biggest challenges you've faced as an entrepreneur?
The most significant challenges include establishing a sustainable business model and assembling a strong team.
Additionally, managing emotions and not becoming disheartened when facing difficulties in scaling up the business has been a constant challenge.
What advice would you give to someone thinking of starting out?
For those embarking on their entrepreneurial journey, here are some key considerations:
A. Create a product or service that addresses a genuine need.
B. Seek mentorship.
C. Be prepared to work tirelessly for your business.
D. Understand that returns take time; patience is key.
E. Thoroughly research your target market.
F. Most importantly, have faith in your product and yourself. Do not give up.
Given a chance, would you alter any of your life decisions?
I would not alter any of my life decisions because I believe that my choices have shaped the woman I am today. They have molded my personality, increased my empathy, strengthened my determination, and taught me the importance of self-worth and valuing others. I view life experiences as opportunities to uncover our strengths and weaknesses, guiding us toward our true purpose.
Find Hemangi Shah on Social Media:
Website: www.thecounselco.co.in / www.prismei.co.in
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hemangi-shah-5760345b
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hemangi.shah9/
Hope you enjoyed reading Hemangi Shah’s story!
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