About Me
What inspired you to pursue a career in your industry?
My grandparents were farmers in Tamil Eelam, and their values shaped my perspective on sustainability. Growing up, I learned that sustainability means coexisting with nature and caring for the community, rather than focusing on individual gain or large-scale solutions. This viewpoint inspired me to pursue a career in this space.
How did you overcome the biggest challenge you faced in building your business/advancing your career?
The biggest challenge we faced and overcame at Yannai was finding our organic cotton supplier. Our search spanned four continents and took over a year of research. We needed a supplier with the right certifications, strong sustainable farming practices, excellent communication, shared values, local community support, and full traceability. There were moments when we doubted we would ever find such a supplier, but our perseverance ultimately led us to the right partner.
How do you stay motivated and focused on your goals?
Talking to other founders and people who have built something is a big source of motivation for me. There’s also a big gap in the market for clearly communicated, transparent, ethical, and sustainable clothing. It’s something I’ve struggled to find myself, so it inspires us at Yannai to create a solution that fills that space.
“Talking to other founders and people who have built something is a big source of motivation for me.”
What advice would you give to young professionals starting out in their careers or entrepreneurial endeavors?
Be consistent, and to be transparent, it's something we're still working on at Yannai. Progress looks different for everyone, so do your best to enjoy the process. As you stay consistent, exciting things will start to happen.
How do you handle setbacks or failures in business?
Expect problems—there’s no way to succeed without facing setbacks and failures. Recognize that they will happen, and be proactive in addressing them. Each setback is an opportunity to learn, find solutions, and strengthen your organization for the future. Having a great co-founder like Nero also makes navigating these challenges much easier.
What do you think makes a great leader?
A great leader knows when to lean on others for support and guidance. It’s important to ask for help when you need it and rely on your team. Being empathetic and considering both your team’s and customers’ perspectives is also key.
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