If one were to ask my friends to describe me they would describe me as a very pleasant, diverse, active and intelligent woman. I think one of my distinguishing characteristics is the diversity of experiences I possess.

I was a versatile student and was motivated to take on the world of men. I equipped myself with a degree to this effect. I was a woman and I realized I was more a mother than a professional. I gave up a lucrative career for 15 years and devoted myself to bringing up two young boys. They were MY priority. I daresay it has been an enriching experience. Being a home maker and managing two kids requires creativity, innovation and strategic planning… No less than a “so called “ professional organization. I was never idle and was always involved with part time projects, projects that never interfered with my motherhood.

My dream to use my education and professional training became a personal challenge. I always believed in myself and I set up BusinesSpace with my Dad. I took nervous first steps, holding my dad’s hands! I ventured into the world of business. Not exposed to the worldly machinations of the corporate culture I made many mistakes. They were stepping stones to setting up my own venture, OPUS! I am a survivor and have learnt the way by looking ahead and teaching myself the DO’s and DON’T’s of running an enterprise effectively. I have learnt to manage people & money, to administer, to compete, to dig my heels in and hang in there. The Army has a saying: “Train as you fight and you will fight as you train.” I try to apply this philosophy to my work.

I have a pro-active approach and an initiative to execute a project to completion. I am a woman with a passion for doing things well. Personal satisfaction is my mantra and while monetary rewards are of practical importance, true job satisfaction springs from the opportunity to grow and learn within an industry. I enjoy acquiring new skills and information, which help me to adapt to the fast-changing world, as well as pique my interest in innovation

I believe that this unique blend of experiences has made me a woman with an original point of view. This blend has given me a broader perspective and a good understanding of life and a goal to aim for. More than what I have studied in school and college, it has been these experiences that have shaped the person that I am today.

The “power of education”! In today’s world of shrinking boundaries and proliferation of knowledge it has become increasingly necessary to enhance one’s skill sets to acquire a competitve edge. I have always believed in striving to become the best and training at one of the best institutes would give wings to my belief. I did a diploma at IIM(K) as it was always a dream to go there.

I enjoyed the challenge of enquiry and discussion, even though I found that the academics were not really relevant to the real world. HR issues could never be resolved with a textbook approach. The financial ratios were applicable perhaps to large scale enterprises. The teachers were exemplary and the stint there was uplifting. A memorable experience!

P S: COVID 19 threw up a new challenge. Some of us got together to feed hungry people in a group Another life’s mission. www.opusfoundation.org

NOW

Many moons down the line I had started a textile store QISSAA. I shop, design, match, execute. Textiles, saris, knick knacks of the Indian diaspora.

Vibha Mitra, I the sutradhar! A woman who was taught to fashion a career out of academics and managed to achieve the merits. My heart however has remained with the Arts! Literature, philosophy. Colours. Textures and designs   fascinated me as did Indian myths and traditions. I loved soaking in art – paintings, textiles, nature, people, stories. When my son took over the test prep I had started the natural transition was to let go.  I took the plunge and indulged in a spree of handloom buying, creating and Qissaa was born. An eclectic lifestyle store. I have always striven to do things hatke and when Paramita, a very dear  friend introduced me to the possibilities of curating meaningful stories in this space I was hooked. I always loved and lived with passion and a burning desire to make a difference, leave some imprints behind. I hope this Qissaa can unfold many colourful moments for our collective consciousness in this journey of life!

Unfortunately the store closed down and I am indulging in Odds and Ends of my great love