Meet Soniya Lamba, a pioneering entrepreneur and relentless advocate for women's empowerment.
Tell us a bit about yourself and your family?
I am an individual who chose a distinct path by pursuing Commerce and Management, setting myself apart from a family tradition rooted in engineering. While my family members excelled in various fields, I embraced my passion and worked diligently in diverse sectors.
My unwavering commitment to hard work and my never-give-up attitude are deeply rooted in my family's values. Growing up, I witnessed firsthand the relentless dedication and determination that my family members exhibited in every aspect of their lives. Whether it was in their careers, personal pursuits, or overcoming challenges, they set a remarkable example.
Have you had any formal training or family business?
No, I have done my Masters in Management and I have learnt from my experiences.
How did you come up with the idea for your business, and what was the process of turning that idea into a reality?
In the midst of a global pandemic that brought uncertainty and economic hardship to countless individuals, I found myself at a crossroads.
With four years of experience in the dynamic field of animation, I had built a career that I was passionate about.
Yet, as I witnessed talented colleagues and friends losing their jobs due to circumstances beyond their control, a profound sense of responsibility stirred within me.
Rather than succumbing to despair, I made a decision that would redefine my purpose.
I realized that my savings could be a lifeline for those who had fallen on hard times.
Inspired by a vision of contributing to the betterment of society, I resolved to use my resources to create opportunities for others.
It was with this intent that I embarked on a journey to establish a venture that would not only provide employment but also foster a sense of hope and renewal.
By channeling my experience and expertise in animation, I aimed to create a platform where talented individuals could find meaningful work, even in the face of adversity.
How have you grown as a leader since starting your company, and what have been some of the key lessons you've learned along the way?
This journey has reinforced the belief that each of us, in our own capacity, can contribute to the betterment of society.
It serves as a testament to the power of empathy and the enduring human spirit.
My experience in the animation field provided the skills, but it was the desire to make a positive impact that fueled this transformation.
In the end, I am reminded that the true measure of success lies not only in personal achievement but in the ability to uplift others in their moments of need.
It is a privilege to have been able to convert my savings into a source of employment, and I remain committed to continuing this mission, knowing that together, we can build a brighter future for all.
Can you tell us about a time when you faced a major setback or failure in your business, and how you overcame it?
As the world began to recover from the challenges of the pandemic, I felt a renewed sense of confidence and purpose.
I believed it was my time to shine, to take the dreams we had collectively envisioned and turn them into reality.
Little did I know that a harsh and unexpected reality awaited me.
The individuals for whom I had stood up and provided livelihood opportunities chose a path of betrayal, driven by short-term financial gains.
It was a painful revelation, a stark contrast to the trust and camaraderie we had once shared.
They seemed to have forgotten the journey we had undertaken together, the countless hours of hard work and dedication that had shaped them into capable individuals. In that moment, it would have been easy to succumb to anger, resentment, or despair. But I chose a different path.
I saw this setback not as a defeat, but as a formidable challenge, an opportunity sent by the universe to test my mettle.
With renewed vigor, I set out on my journey once more.
The setback, instead of deterring me, fueled my passion and drive. I knew that every obstacle was an opportunity to learn, grow, and emerge stronger than ever before.
How do you stay motivated and focused on your goals, especially during challenging times?
As I continue forging ahead, I am reminded that the iron that withstands the most intense heat becomes the strongest.
I am that iron, and I am unbreakable. Betrayal may have shaken me, but it will not define me.
I remain resolute in my pursuit of success, undeterred by the challenges that lie ahead.
My journey continues, and I am more determined than ever to shine, not for anyone else, but for myself and the unwavering spirit that resides within me.
How do you balance your personal life with the demands of running a business?
In a world where the line between work and personal life often blurs, I chose to draw a clear boundary.
I understood that nurturing my well-being and maintaining connections with loved ones were not indulgences but essential components of long-term success.
It wasn't just about finding time; it was about creating the space for balance and harmony in my life.
With a resolute determination and a clear sense of purpose, I embarked on the journey of selecting and prioritizing the most appropriate things.
This deliberate approach allowed me to carve out those invaluable moments of personal time and family closeness amidst the relentless pace of entrepreneurship.
I discovered that when you're truly committed and aligned with your goals, you can indeed find a way to allocate time to yourself, your loved ones, and your passions.
It's not about having more hours in a day; it's about making every hour count.
These moments of respite, these connections, they serve as anchors, providing the strength to endure and the clarity to navigate future challenges.
What are your plans for the future of your business, and how do you see yourself evolving as a founder and leader?
I hold a profound belief that the economic well-being of any society or nation hinges on the individual prosperity and growth of its citizens.
Throughout my journey as an entrepreneur and leader, this belief has evolved into a deep commitment—a commitment to play an integral role in the ongoing saga of fostering economic development.
I recognize that the path to economic excellence lies in the collective efforts of countless small businesses and budding entrepreneurs.
These individuals, with their unique ideas, determination, and drive, are the lifeblood of progress.
It is through their endeavors that economies flourish, job opportunities multiply, and communities thrive.
My role in this endeavor is clear—to extend a helping hand, share knowledge, and provide resources to those on the precipice of realizing their dreams.
I am dedicated to creating an ecosystem where aspiring entrepreneurs have the support, mentorship, and resources needed to transform their visions into thriving enterprises.
If you could go back in time and give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?
If I could go back in time, I'd remind myself that having a good heart and good intentions are essential, but they alone won't ensure a thriving business.
It's crucial to develop a strong mental attitude and be prepared to make tough decisions, even when they may not align with your personal beliefs.
Above all, I'd emphasize the importance of unwavering self-belief, for it is the foundation upon which success is built.
What's the most unconventional thing you've done to grow your business, and what was the result?
I embarked on a journey into the animation industry, defying the conventional wisdom that emphasized the need for significant capital and industry connections.
I set sail into this challenging ocean without the safety net of finances or close business connections.
The journey was arduous, akin to navigating uncharted waters, but through sheer determination and perseverance, I not only swam but also reached the shore of success and my journey continues.
What's the most important lesson you've learned from a failure, and how have you applied it to your business?
In my early years, I neglected to keep track of small daily expenses and prioritized the needs of my employees over business profitability.
This led to significant losses. However, these mistakes served as valuable lessons.
I honed my financial management skills through various institutional and non-institutional means, ultimately breaking free from the cycle of losses. It's a testament to the importance of adaptability and learning from setbacks.
What's the most meaningful compliment or feedback you've ever received from a customer, and why did it resonate with you?
In a world where the path for women to ascend to eminent business positions can be scarce and fraught with challenges, I have been fortunate to receive a heartfelt and resonant compliment.
Many have acknowledged and appreciated my journey as a strong, independent woman with an unyielding attitude.
This compliment is more than just words; it's a recognition of the trials and tribulations faced and conquered, a celebration of the glass ceilings shattered, and a tribute to the relentless spirit that propels me forward.
If you had to choose one thing that makes your company truly unique and sets it apart from the competition, what would it be, and why?
In our workplace, we understand that the most powerful ideas often emerge from the fertile ground of unrestricted imagination.
Therefore, we have consciously chosen not to stifle creativity but to nurture it.
Our employees are not confined by rigid boundaries or discouraged from taking risks.
Instead, they are encouraged to dream big, push boundaries, and bring their boldest ideas to life.
Find Soniya Lamba on Social media:
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/soniya-lamba-96a4b1135/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lighthouze_art_studios
Hope you enjoyed reading Soniya Lamba’s story!
Do write to us if you'd like to share your story with the women community of SOROR - The Sister's Edit.
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( Singapore )