Category: Leaders

THE INVINCIBLE ENTREPRENEUR

From India’s richest woman to the leading lady in style, Nita Ambani breaks to turtle conservationists’ perception of Indians towards woman power play. She has proved that more than any sophisticated ornament; it is the beautiful soul that keeps the charming personality gleaming not known to many, from couple of months, Reliance Foundation, named after her husband Mukesh Ambani’s Reliance Industries, chaired by the ever-smiling Nita Ambani has been generously donating in major U.S. museums seeking to mount shows with ties to her homeland.

Soaring high with performance and fulfilling promises to make India a better place for everyone, Mrs. Ambani runs the largest CSR initiatives of the country called the Reliance Foundation. As she says, at Reliance Foundation, the vision is to build an inclusive India by pioneering a holistic model to address the nation’s multifaceted development challenges, and contribute to its collective aspirations.

The focal point is the commitment to enhance the quality of life of people from marginalised and vulnerable communities, by empowering them and catalysing change through innovative and sustainable solutions. Their steadfast endeavour is to create replicable and scalable models of development through an integrated approach in the true Reliance spirit of maximising societal value for all, and making it a movement.

SOWING THE SEEDS OF KINDNESS

Mrs. Ambani is a familiar name when we count on people who are steering steering initiatives in the area of education, sports, health and art and culture. She has been involved in promoting multiple sports in the country with focus on developing talent through a number of large-scale grassroots initiatives. The grassroots programmes that she has initiated have reached out to over 3 million children in multiple sports.

Under her guidance, the Reliance Foundation has launched the “Health for All” initiative through a community outreach programme for the underprivileged within five kilometres of its hospitals. Her eye for details has transformed the working style of many at the organization. It is this attention to detail that also reflects in the relationships Mrs. Ambani builds, both at work and with friends. “She has a way to make you part of the Reliance family. She will ask about children. She would know if a child has an illness. I don’t know how she does it. But she has a way of figuring out. There are too many instances where she overwhelms you,” says a former employee.

Led by Mrs. Ambani, Reliance Foundation was set up in 2010 to provide impetus to various philanthropic initiatives of RIL. The efforts of the group have already touched the lives of more than seven million people across India, in more than 10,500 villages and urban locations. The Foundation has a comprehensive development approach. Its prime objective is to create and support meaningful activities through innovative institutions to address some of India’s most pressing developmental challenges. The Foundation lays significant emphasis on leveraging technology for developmental solutions. Following its model of direct engagement, the Foundation directly reaches out to the affected communities through trained professionals.

THE PLUNGE IN DIVERSITY

Over the years, Reliance Foundation’s initiatives have continued to evolve, while remaining responsive to the ever-changing needs of society. The Foundation is currently focusing on creating change in areas of Rural Transformation, Health, and Education, Sports for Development, Disaster Response, Arts, Culture & Heritage and Urban Renewal.
To maximize its reach and improve outcomes, Reliance Foundation has also established strategic partnerships with organizations that have the technical expertise and experience to undertake various programmes in the identified focus areas of operation.

Hailing from a Gujarati Family, Mrs. Ambani both music and classical dance is close to her heart. Her mother was a well-known Gujarati Folk Dancer and started to teach dance to Nita when she was just eight year old. Nita also started to show immense interest in dancing. She became quite famous for her skills in Bharatnatyam. It was this fondness for classical dance that captivated the heart of Ambani’s. Nita Ambani also used to perform Bharatnatyam at various stages throughout Gujarat. In one of her many performances, the Ambanis, specifically Dhirubhai and Kokilaben Ambani, who were at a cultural show, saw Nita dancing. They were so impressed with scintillating performances of Nita. She was not only dancing perfectly, but they also noticed an amazing beauty coupled with Indian tradition in her. Rest as they is history.

Social commentator, columnist Suhel Seth has always maintained that she is a “born Ambani”. “She is India’s first lady. He further added that Mrs. ambani carved an identity that doesn’t take away from that legacy. After she addressed at FICCI, a number of young girls went up to her asking for autographs. One of them said, ‘Nita ma’am, you’re our role model and inspiration for all of us’,” recalls Seth. At one time Parmeshwar Godrej was the face of Indian society but now Nita has displaces her. Seth feels, “It’ll be unfair to compare her with anyone. Nita has a much superior edge laced with sobriety and soberness. She has contributed in so many spheres – be it the school or her cricket team.

LEADING FROM THE FRONT

In the very famous words of Mrs. Ambani, “Between my past, the present and the future, there is one common factor: Relationship and Trust. This is the foundation of our growth”, she has never disappointed any of the task driven under her guidance to be able to carve a niche out of it. Following a recent series of events, Mrs. Ambani Nita Ambani, founder-chairperson of Reliance Foundation, has been elected as an independent candidate to be a member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC). The election for membership, which officials say is a mere formality, is scheduled at the 129th IOC Session at Rio de Janeiro between August 2 and August 4. As per the selection process, Mrs. Ambani, will continue to serve as a member of the IOC until she reaches 70 years of age.

IOC President Thomas Bach, announcing the eight candidates at a press conference in Lausanne, said: “This is a very outstanding group of personalities that are experts in their respective fields.”

Nita Ambani was among the eight Indian leaders who featured in Asia’s 50 Power Businesswomen 2016 list, released by Forbes earlier this year. A trained Indian classical dancer, she also looks after the Dhirubhai Ambani International School, the HN Reliance Foundation Hospital and played a key role in designing the residential part of the RIL
Township at Jamnagar in Gujarat.

A DOSE OF PANACHE

When it comes to living a luxurious lifestyle, Mrs. Ambani is second to none. Her love of crimson and has been often seen attending important occasions in variations of crimson colored Sarees. Her Gujarati background reflects in the designs as well as draping style of the saree. One of her favorite Indian designer is Abu Jani – Sandeep Khosla who churns out stunning Indian attires for her in succession.

Known for her opulent yet traditional styling, Mrs. Ambani’s wardrobe comprises of big jhumkas, heavy pendants and chunky bangles to subtle and sleek designs.
The aura of appeal and power which Mrs. Ambani reflects is par excellence. Her popularity has grown tremendously over the past couple of years which has also felicitated her with the honour of being the cover face of many international magazines like Femina, People, Verve (along with husband Mukesh Ambani), L’Officiel’s etc. Amongst the entire very special cover shoot for Hello was done with her daughter, where she shared the space with the gen next.

Mother Nita Ambani never disappoints her children, despite managing multiple tasks at a given time; she never fails to be a doting mother to her three extremely talented children. From being the driving force behind Anant Ambani’s drastic transformation while dealing with medical conditions to standing rock solid behind while Akash established his firm steps in the telecommunications business with Reliance Jio, she has been the source of inspiration to her family since forever.

SPEARHEADING THE NEXTT ERA

A Business tycoon, a humanitarian and a scholar, Mr. Arun Agarwal’s personality has all the elements that make him an exceptional leader. Embarked on the way to a rising success chart, this CEO of Nextt, the largest bedding company in North America is marking touchstones in the Indian Home Textiles Industry in the United States

Success is a multidimensional achievement. One cannot define it in terms of one or two parameters; rather it is a part of a bigger framework which comprises of million little threads that weave into an exceptionally beautiful phase of accomplishments. Taking little sturdy steps and enriching his life with valuable experiences, the Chief Executive Officer of Dallabased Nextt, Mr. Arun Agarwal is also intertwining his extraordinary abilities with innovative ideas to arrive on a prolific destination. From his teenager days, Mr. Arun Agarwal aspired to become a magnate and lead his firm towards the pinnacle of success. That was the reason he entered the textiles market with his innovative ideas and excellent leadership skills.

THE ENCOURAGING ASPIRATIONS

“No dream is too big. Keep a good head on your shoulders and pursue it. There is fine line between self-confidence and arrogance, make sure to define that line.” Keeping true to his words, Arun Agarwal decided to give life to his dreams by establishing Alok International eight years ago. A U.S. subsidiary of India-based Alok Industry Ltd., the firm has more than 20 brands which occupy a renowned position in the home textile market.

Today, as the Chief Executive Officer of Nextt, the front-end marketing arm for Alok Industries, Mr. Arun Agarwal is guiding the Indian home textiles sector on an international platform. Mr. Arun Agarwal has more than Fifteen years of experience in the industry which helped him in understanding the ways of business world. These valuable times that he has spent in the textiles field proves to be one of the most significant parts of his eminent personality.

Possessing an impressive educational background, Mr. Arun Agarwal acquired prestigious degrees to enhance and refine his abilities. After receiving a Bachelor’s Degree in Science from Maharajas College in Jaipur, he went on for his further studies from the Institute of Management Technology where he got an MBA degree. At that time, Mr. Arun got a job as the youngest regional manager of JVC Onida for eastern region. Under the leadership of Mr. Sonu Mirchandani, he created a history in color television industry of India. However, his desire of acquiring more knowledge took him to the University of New Hampshire for the study of computer information systems and he achieved another Master’s degree as well International Business from Harvard University in Boston. The years that he spent in his colleges has a very special place in his heart for they evolved him into a dignified scholar who had a keen zest to bring a tremendous change in the field of entrepreneurship. From being a Secretary of Maharajas College student union to the President of Graduate Student Association of New Hampshire College, Mr. Arun’s personality always had the glimpses of a great leader.

A DETERMINED PURSUIT

It was under his leadership that Nextt has been able to achieve whooping revenue of more than $500 million. The company is a leading manufacturer of products such as home textiles, garments, apparel fabrics and polyester yarns. The firm also unveiled a 17,000 square feet flagship showroom on Madison Avenue in Manhattan. Today, his company creates masterpieces of comfort and luxury in its headquarters at Dallas for some of the internationally renowned retailers such as Dillard’s, JC Penney, Target, Kohl’s, and Wal-Mart, and brands that include Trina Turk, Iman, Kathy Ireland, Jessica McClintock, and Ellen Tracy.

Mr. Arun Agarwal believes that uniqueness is like a stepping stone if one wants to excel in his pursuit. He wants to do things that stand aloof among the prevailing industry ideas. That is why he formed a team of young and enthusiastic minds who can adapt with the ever-changing scenario of the business world. He does not think that in order to do business one should follow any rulebook. Rather, they should follow a simple ideology of delivering excellence to the customers. He remarks, “Selling is as simple as being honest and winning credibility that you will do what you say”.

In a short time span, Mr. Arun Agarwal helped the firm in securing a “dominant proportion of private label”. It was due to his efforts that the company established various collaborations with the international brands. “In such a short time our reputation as a company is incredible in the retail

world,” confirms Mr. Arun Agarwal with a gleam of happiness in his eyes. “With the ecosystems we’ve created, we feel we are far ahead of the competition. But we need to keep evolving” he added.

For Mr. Arun Agarwal, the quality of services and products matters the most. It is never about prices but the durability that enhances the customers’ trust in any establishment or brand. During his early schooling in Jaipur, he did door to door market research for IMRB, which gave him some deep customer insights which still helps him in shaping his company’s future. According to Mr. Arun Agarwal he is not just “selling a sheet, but selling a solution”. He thinks that towels and sheet is basic commodity. “It’s more about the functionality. If you can combine fashion with function, it’s a winning combination.” he stated in an interview. Accentuating innovation in the company’s products, a technology of wrinkle-free sheet was introduced that created a benchmark in the industry. This sustainable technology has the ability to produce sheets that has cotton on the inside and polyester on its top which can fit the mattress of every size.

INITIATING A NEW PHASE

Mr. Arun Agarwal is the first Indian American to be appointed to Product Development and Small Business Incubator (PDSBI) Board in Texas. The board provides financial aid “for the development, production and commercialization of new or improved products and to foster the growth of small businesses” in the state. This achievement gave him a new perception towards the propensities of innovative ideas.

Impressed with the youth of India, Mr. Arun Agarwal feels that the pace at which the new generation of the country is moving ahead with their groundbreaking ideas, they can become one of the world’s best leaders that has the potential to set a new trend in the industry. He has a belief that if one gets a little help from the state then there is no doubt that his/her “ideas can turn into a big commercial success”.

Having a belief in the “Make In India” initiative taken by the Government of India to forge business growth in the country, Mr. Arun Agarwal thinks that this strategy can fuel the economic growth of the country to a great extent as it will give firm reasons to the international companies to invest in Indian establishments.

Mr. Arun Agarwal has a firm belief in business relationship. According to him, an honest approach and sincere commitments can make these associations fruitful for both the parties. Talking about his future vision for Nextt, Mr. Arun Agarwal hopes to utilize their exceptional infrastructure to subsidize the developing business models and trends. He also wishes to use his “knowledge of India to promote some products which are core to Indian economy” as well.

Even though Mr. Arun Agarwal is living away from India, his love and respect for the country is clearly visible in his constant efforts. As a proud Indian, he speaks to his daughter Anya about how lucky he feels, “We are the most fortunate people in the world. Connected to two of the best countries on earth– India and USA.”

THE COMPASSIONATE PERSPECTIVE

Apart from being a successful tycoon, Mr. Arun Agarwal is also an altruistic person. He engages himself in various CSR activities not only on a local level but on global platform too. Among these activities and initiatives, DIFFA and Chetna are radical steps taken by him through his company. The former initiative works towards the awareness and treatment of AIDS while Chetna helps the victims of domestic violence. For making a contribution towards the empowerment of women, Mr. Arun Agarwal also supports Living Dreams Foundation situated in Delhi. He also helped in the establishment of the largest Mahatma Gandhi Memorial in Dallas and also helped the Bhutanese refugee kids in DFW area.

This Founding father of Nextt is also an active participates in diverse organizations. For instance, he is one of the board members of various organizations such as Gift for Life, US-India Chamber of Commerce DFW, Indian American Friendship Council, and Dallas Regional Chamber of Commerce. In 2015, Mr. Arun Agarwal also received NRI Entrepreneur of the Year award. Apart from that he also won awards such as “Outstanding Entrepreneur Award”, “Minority Business Leader Award” and “Entrepreneur of the Year Award”. Due to his perseverance and creativity, Mr. Arun Agarwal is laying the groundwork for his future success and also inspires the people around him to achieve big in their lives. His confidence in his self flashes through his words, “A good idea, with proper support and execution always succeeds”. This NRI entrepreneur is making headway with the help of the plans that he has designed for being one of the front-runners of the industry.

Before Evelyn Mungai opened the first school of design in Nairobi, there was no such industry as fashion design in East Africa, and so of course there were no fashion designers. She took it upon herself to train thousands of young people across the continent. Under her expert guidance, some went on to start their own businesses in this lucrative field, while others were employed in the related textile and graphic and interior design sectors.

GLOBAL APPEAL

Her graduates span the globe, grateful for the foundation they received at the college. Because of her hard work and dedication, the name Evelyn College of Design has come to be associated with quality. In 1981, she was invited to join the prestigious Africa Business Round-Table (ABR), the high-profile continent-wide private sector body of the African Development Bank. She was its first woman member.

She has also been closely associated with the establishment and promotion of the Corporate Council for Africa and the Global Coalition for Africa, two influential US-based bodies that bring the American and African private sectors closer together. She later served as a board member of the Africa Project Development Facility of IFC, the private sector development arm of the World Bank.

VARIED INTERESTS

For many years, she published Presence Magazine, which provided a platform for strengthening and promoting women. She also published Kenya Women Reflections, a book about Kenyan women active in the struggle for independence.

She has several other business interests, including in property development, and at one time was Founder Chairman of Faida Biashara, a private-sector-driven micro-finance company that empowered small-scale business people.

She is also the member of the International Advisory Panel of the World Islamic Economic Forum representing Africa in this prestigious and influential global body that promotes business between Islamic countries and between them and the rest of the world.

She is a past Chairman of the Kenya chapter of Transparency International, and serves as a Trustee of the President’s Award Scheme. She was a founder board member of the Nairobi Central Business District Association, and also of the Kenya chapter of Safety on the Roads International.

SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY AND AWARDS

As the first woman member of the Rotary Club of Nairobi, she launched initiatives in the fields of education, agriculture, health, infrastructure and income generation, and provided for a home for 50 AIDS orphans.

Above all Evelyn Mungai has been a leading champion of women economic empowerment, in Kenya and all around Africa. Her mission as the Founder President of the All African Businesswomen’s Association (AABA), is to facilitate networking and personal development among senior women in the private sector.

Finally, she lives and promotes the best of traditional African values, in terms of respect for the family, awareness of cultural heritage, and integrity.
In 1993, she was awarded the Lincoln University President’s Award for excellence in business and finance. President Kibaki honoured her with the national award of the Order of the Grand Warrior (OGW).

AN ECLECTIC PERSONAGE

Emerging from the lanes of a small town in Madhya Pradesh to be counted among world’s most influential and prominent leaders, the journey of CP Gurnani can leave anyone awe-inspired. A fascination towards technology and the zest to transform the Indian IT sector has underlined his way to zenith of success the life of CP Gurnani has been a saga of innumerous transitions. However, with an unyielding fortitude, he not only scaled every challenge victoriously, but also acquired profound wisdom through each one of them. Even if things happened at a frenetic pace, he concentrated on collecting worthy memories and experiences, and moved on with an unceasing passion. In fact, challenging circumstances ignited in him the verve to achieve the unattained efficaciously. For a boy who had no idea of what a computer was till his late teens and for a professional without a business administration degree, leading a multinational conglomerate through a pivotal transformational journey alone wasn’t easy. But, he pulled it through in a grand manner!

The story of this sedulous gentleman is an epitome which signifies that no dream is far from reality if one is hard working and determined towards achieving one’s goals.

THE ITINERANT LIFE

Born in the fatherland of Central Reserve Police Force- Neemuch, Madhya Pradesh, CP Gurnani’s childhood was spent in various cities of Rajasthan like Chittorgarh, Kota, Jodhpur and Jaipur due to multiple transfers his father’s job at Central Bureau of Narcotics offered.

Before moving to a new place his father would always tell him, “You’re going to a new city, to a new neighborhood, and to a new school. The city does not need you, the neighborhood does not need you, and the school does not need you. But you need all of them. The initiative belongs to you and nobody owes you anything.” These words of his father developed in him an understanding towards the fact that nothing is static in this world and change is inevitable. Thus, he eloquently matched his pace with the flow and made each city a new platform to fill his journal of memories with elaborate learning experiences. He developed strong friendships and unbreakable bonds during this phase of life and they remain with him till today. “Despite all these transfers, my kindergarten, school and college friends joined me to celebrate my daughter’s wedding. These are my proudest moments and they don’t get you an award,” he remarks.

This itinerancy is still an inseparable part of his lifestyle as he spends the major portion of the year travelling within the country and overseas for business dealings. He aims to benefit not just the business with these voyages but keeps on grooming his personal self as well. His devotion towards work keeps him going; his father’s words constantly keeping his soul inspired. A look back at the passage of his own life gives him the spirit to move ahead. He likes to turn the pages of his life one at a time while making sure that each page is scribbled with extraordinary tales that can become inspiration for generations to come.

ATTAINING THE SKILLS

A visit to his cousin’s place in Mumbai kindled in CP (as he is fondly called) an unfathomable passion towards technology. The unique macrocosm of computers sparked in him a keen fascination towards machines. And he envisioned a future for himself in the world of technology.

He graduated from the National Institute of Technology, Rourkela with a degree in Chemical Engineering. Though choosing this major was not a very easy decision for him as the ocean of options available created a dilemma, today he is content and proud of this choice. “Engineering trains a student in the art of compromise and optimization between pure science and real world applications. My study and work at NITR has enhanced my skills in analysis and building solutions,” he remarks.

His days at NITR hold a very special place in his heart. He reminisces of the place as a rollercoaster of challenges and cheers. Though he was not a university topper but was a very active and keen student. He was also involved in extra-curricular activities and was a part of college hockey team as well as the AV club. He also actively participated in discussions and debates. On the suggestion of his friend he joined Rotaract- the youth wing of Rotary Club, Rourkela as well.

Being a highly skilled entrepreneur himself, he reckons that NITR gave him unforeseen opportunities to challenge and reinvent himself. He attributes his industrial skills to the training he got at his college.

FILLING TREASURES OF EXPERIENCE

CP had worked with several renowned companies handling diverse responsibilities before joining Tech Mahindra in 2004. His professional journey started in 1975 as a chemical engineer at JK Synthetics in Kota. He soon shifted to design engineering and later was picked up as a management trainee by Lloyd Insulations. He had been a very diligent employee and gave his best at each work place. But his heart’s calling was continuously telling him that he had to effectuate something more valuable.

His next destination was Fenner India Ltd. Talking about his decision to join Fenner, Mr. Gurnani reminisces, “The company also gave you a car—a Fiat. Being a middle-class guy, it was a big dream. So I joined Fenner.” But CP Gurnani soon comprehended that his ultimate aim was not merely pecuniary. His undying passion towards IT and computers pushed him to forge ahead and he told his supervisor that he couldn’t see a future in that kind of job, “I told him that I am a person who likes people and that technology excites me, and I think I can create something meaningful. I was around 27 and my boss was convinced that I was on the right track.”

It was around 1986 and the computers had recently become a reality. Despite being untrained in computers, his zeal towards technology made him join Hindustan Computers Limited. His tenure at HCL proved out to be the stepping stone for the immense success he enjoys today.

EMERGING WINNER
CP led Tech Mahindra through a series of surprises and challenges. With his immaculate guidance, he not only managed to keep the legacy of the name ‘Mahindra’ alive and thriving, but his indefatigable efforts and management skills also led the company on an unprecedented path of glory. His strong leadership qualities are conspicuous in the exceptional performance of the company at the domestic and global platforms every passing year.

CP likes to speak through his actions; and his entrepreneurial expertise doesn’t need a testimony. Faced with the challenge of reviving Satyam Computer Services Limited – he was the foremost choice to revive the firm when Mahindra acquired it in 2009 – he didn’t prove anyone wrong; he just worked and silently achieved the impossible. He not only inspired the entire world by resuscitating an impaired company and the reputation of India, but also regained the trust of customers and employees. Sleepless nights and determined resolve to right the wrongs proved to be part of his business duties, while he adamantly revitalized the business. His passion to work tirelessly to attain the trust of his employees is unmatched in the industry.

A CONSIDERATE LEADER

“If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more, and become more- you are a leader.” This quote of John Quincy Adams comprehensively sums up the administrative tenor of CP Gurnani. He is ever-eager to instil a sense of responsibility and leadership in each of his employees. Speaking about his leadership he says that he considers his style as parenting. He believes in nurturing the hidden talents of every single employee. He acts like the turbocharger of the team with an uncanny skill of assessing intrinsic ability of every individual.

He doesn’t believe in leading by command but by acting and setting examples in the system. He possesses an electrifying aura, and has the ability to pulsate the atmosphere with his motivating words. He attracts the approbation of every single person he meets and that is the reason he is loved by everyone around him. This is the reason that he has built a strong team of loyal friends, colleagues, and clients over the years.

UNDYING SPIRIT

CP’s life is certainly an inspiration for many generations to come. His style of working – be it leading a team, getting things done, nurturing his employees, or simply innovating new styles of management for the growth of organization and employees – is admired and followed by other contemporary leaders.

His uninterrupted piquancy has given him a chance to lead and assist NASSCOM in catalyzing the growth of Indian technology and services industry as its Chairman. He wants to make India the tech-centre of the world, and will use this opportunity to the fullest to achieve this dream. Further, he has been chosen to assist the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh regarding IT matters of the state.

CP looks at his future as one filled up with many more exciting adventures and opportunities that will help him grow more as a person. His aspirations are well-reflected in his quote, “My objective is to be a relevant global player, but if I don’t take advantage of the growing economy of India, growing youth of India, and if I don’t actually present solutions here, I don’t think the world is going to wait for me.”

Rizwan Sajan arrived in Dubai in 1991 with nothing in his pockets but a dream in his eyes. The only positive thing he could cling to was his first-hand experience in the building materials industry. He didn’t have money, but had a heart of gold!

He was 28 years old then, and had been working for more than a decade with his uncle in Kuwait. He had lost his father at the age of 16 and had made his way up from the streets. He had started feeling settled in the business with his uncle, when suddenly the Gulf War started and things got so bad that he had to leave Kuwait and his job.

The decision to leave Kuwait and go to Dubai wasn’t easy; however, he had to survive and take care of his family. When he arrived in Dubai, he looked up to the sky and promised to himself that he would work, work and work until he builds a future for himself and his family in this land of dreams and opportunities.

… and the journey started.

LAND OF DESTRUCTION VS. LAND OF OPPORTUNITIES

In the year 1991, when most people were glued to their TVs watching Scud missiles devastating Kuwait during the infamous Gulf War, the citizens and traders of Kuwait were actually living the horror of being in the midst of the destruction. Two names relevant here are Jacob Moses and Rizwan Sajan.

Before 1990, they didn’t even know who Saddam Hussein was, but in 1991 Rizwan Sajan had to leave his home, family and job in Kuwait because of him. For many that would have been a dead end. But Sajan was determined to do good in life, and came to Dubai. In Dubai, he worked for a hardware store initially where he earned AED 1,500 per month. Gradually, the situation in Kuwait started getting back to normal and as the word got out that he was in Dubai, his former business associates started calling him to place orders for building materials.

He recalls all good things about his uncle Moses and how he taught him to do business and survive, “My business ethics are largely due to the influence of my uncle Jacob Moses who taught me that 2+2=5.”

After about 10 months in Dubai, he thought of using his savings and his know-how of the building materials industry and went about starting his own company, Danube. He started as a small shop in Deira and his first employee was Mrs. Sameera Sajan, his wife. Today, Danube is present in over 50 locations in 9 countries with employee strength of over 2,500.
25 years after he came to Dubai in 1991, he is considered as one of the persons who literally helped in building Dubai. The growth was mutual and he has already created a close to 3 billion dollar company.

THE FORCE CALLED RIZWAN SAJAN

Creating relationships and bonds is not easy, especially if it is not your own country. However, like everything else, he has created a strong network and his ability to sell building material is unparalleled.

He has established the UAE’s largest building materials company – Danube Building Materials FZCO. Currently, he is the Founder & Chairman of Danube Group that comprises Danube Building Materials, Danube Home, Danube Properties, Milano, DanubeDirect.com, Danube Systems, Alucopanel, Cha Cha Chai, Xti and Tudors. He has grown his empire brick-by-brick from one office to more than 50 branches with a global reach into the UAE, KSA, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain, India, China and Africa.

It is said that it is very easy in Dubai for people to become super-rich. However, people see only the wealth and fail to see the blood and sweat that goes in the making of the wealth. Sajan kept on taking different risks and turns when others believed in going steady to grow.

He has established different businesses at different times – brokerage business, timber, Buildmart (now called Danube Home), etc. and has created astounding success in all of them.

Being a highly self-assured personality, he states, “I feel proud when I share that all my business units are doing well, in spite of tough market conditions. My team is confident to close the year on a high; however, I have a few words of advice for them: stay cautious in your approach and make informed decisions and don’t act in haste.”

He is excited about the upcoming Expo 2020 in Dubai. “The biggest opportunity will be supplying building materials to major projects in the region; especially, Expo 2020, which is less than 4 years away and we are expecting almost 25 million people visiting Dubai within a span of 6 months.”

DANUBE IN THE DESERTS OF THE UAE

Hailing from the State of Gujarat in India, Sajan’s choice of the name Danube may seem strange to others; however when he started, a lot of his materials used to come through Europe via the river Danube. The river itself is believed to be the life blood of Europe and a source of nourishment. “That’s what I wanted my brand to be: a source of pride, growth and nourishment for me and every single person who invested in me.” So, Danube arrived in the deserts of the UAE, and the nourishment proved to be mutual.

He feels that he has been successful in creating an excellent journey for himself by the grace of God, and because the rulers of Dubai, over the years, have sustained a conducive work environment. The fact remains that any business would thrive here, if only passion and hard work are the main ingredients in it.

He remarks, “The leadership of the UAE have always believed and delivered on their promises to people since 1970s. The ‘never-heard-before’, innovative and best ideas see the day of light in this great nation, time and again. I have been a witness to the futuristic leadership for long now and these great leaders have made sure that no matter what, people, businesses and economy must thrive. Happiness, brotherhood and integrity have always been on the forefront to support the UAE’s march to become the most advanced country. The world history beckons the leaders of the UAE.”

THE MAN AND HIS FAMILY

On asking who is Rizwan Sajan as a person, he was straightforward, “I am a loving husband, a loving father, an astute businessman, a billionaire and I appreciate all my roles because I happen to be Rizwan Sajan of Danube under destiny’s hands. It was the support of almighty, family, friends, business associates, Government of Dubai and my roots – which can be traced back to India.”

He describes his typical day as, “My passion is work which I don’t take for granted, so a typical day would start with a half-an-hour swimming session followed by breakfast with family, and by 10:00 AM I am in office. My day-to-day activities would include discussing the innovative ideas with various teams, though once finalised, the ground work and other decisions would be passed on to the respective team leads.”

His family is his world and his small world comprises his wife Sameera and son Adel. He is nowhere near the retirement age; however, has helped Adel grow into a responsible gentleman and a smart businessman already.

When he thinks or talks of his wife, Sameera, his eyes shine and show great admiration for her. “Sameera played and continues to play an important part in my business. She has supported me through the bad times and applauded through the good ones. She has always given me the freedom to give 100% of my focus to the business. She has tackled all domestic issues with utmost ease throughout our married life.”

He lovingly talks about Adel, “I have been a businessman for most part of my life. Now I see the second generation of Sajan family playing a bigger role in managing the business and taking Danube to greater heights. As far as my role is concerned, I will still be at the helm of the affairs, guiding the young generation.

“Adel started quite young and I remember, during his early days, I would put him in various tasks and departments at Danube during his summer breaks. His first assignment was working in the warehouse with the blue-collar workers and from there on he worked in almost every department until he turned 19. That was the time he was given a real responsibility – starting the chandelier division in the Danube Buildmart (now Danube Home), which had just begun operations. By the time he graduated, he had good knowledge and experience in marketing, logistics, buying and all things retail. Our retail division was kicking off and that’s when Adel took the reins of our retail divisions.”

Adel Sajan is no stranger to success; he has grown up as the scion of the Danube Group, the region’s largest building materials company. He continues, “With his maiden venture, Danube Home, already going from strength to strength, Adel is poised to take over from me and I have no doubts even as a businessman about his capabilities.

BRAND LEGACY OF DANUBE

He chose Sunil Gavaskar, Juhi Chawla and Shilpa Shetty as the brand ambassadors of Danube, because like Danube they too are regarded as greats in their respective fields, given their brand legacy and trust which are also Danube’s traits.

Obviously, it works both ways. “The brand ambassadors we have would have never come on board with us, had they not been convinced of our dedication and quality. It goes without saying that these associations invariably result in visibility, bonding and reach-out of the highest level.”

WELCOME HOME

Danube had successfully floated the idea of home-ownership two years ago. The idea grew and matured as a record number of customers joined the sustainable and affordable housing bandwagon. “Danube is known for quality, and once again there would be no exceptions as quality reigns supreme on all accounts in our latest launch: Glamz.”

The unwavering customer trust in the brand for over two decades has established Danube’s projects as the preferred choice across geographies, which is why each project stands 100% sold-out because of its immense popularity, which prompts sales to close within weeks of their respective launches.

Now, Danube’s first project – Dreamz – is well on schedule for delivery, whereas other projects – Glitz 1, Glitz 2, Glitz 3 and Starz are all 4–5 months ahead of schedule. So he adds, “We are hopeful that Glamz would be no different.”

Danube has established itself as an innovative organization, be it venturing into varied sectors, bringing in new products or reaching out to customers – directly/indirectly. Hence, the brand promise is innovation. As a matter of fact he says, “It doesn’t matter what is the size or scale of the project, if the right intent is there, then Danube will adapt it to serve its customers better.”

THE HUMAN FACTOR

He had a humble beginning and now he is counted among the richest in the UAE and the world. He puts it simply, “I believe my background helps me stay grounded.”
He is also successful because people who join him stick with him. He shares, “Relationships are for life, that’s what I have always believed in. And while you are at it, make sure all you do is work, work and work, as there are no shortcuts to success. I find the right people and invest in them followed by trust – and their empowerment – to do the job perfectly.”

He also believes in training his employees well. “The objective is to formally create the opportunity of continuous learning for team members, thus leading to improved organizational and individual effectiveness which proves beneficial for the team members as well as the organization in the long run.”

Now that he has almost unlimited wealth, he doesn’t flaunt it. He has a humble disposition. He believes in living to the fullest rather than living for profit.

He has won numerous awards including the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Business Award and the Dubai Quality Award. Recently, he was on the cover of Forbes Middle East magazine’s May edition and retained the number twelve ranking in the “Top 100 Indian Leaders in the UAE” List.

He is also involved in philanthropic activities helping people who are currently in need of a support. He feels that it is the duty of every human being to help people and give back to the society in his/her own capacity.

Since the time Danube was established, he has been promoting community initiatives. In 2012, the company designed its own social initiative called the Danube Welfare Centre (DWC) to address the challenges faced by the blue-collared individuals in the UAE. The Welfare Centre aims to provide formal training and assistance to the trainees and helps them meet the demands of the labour market. The Welfare Centre offers a 3-day training program to a batch of 15–20 participants from diverse nationalities free of cost. He explains further, “We train them on communication skills, personality development, interview skills, building self-confidence and developing positive attitude.”

One of Danube’s most popular initiatives involves holding a lucky draw amongst blue-collared workers, whereby the company sends two employees on “Hajj” and other four for “Umrah” each year.

Additionally, to lift up the spirits of the labourers working in the region, Danube serves Iftaar to more than 60,000 labourers every year during the month of Ramadan.

Sunil Kumar Agarwal is one of the promoter directors of Kamdhenu Ispat Ltd. He is a man of many abilities. He is a skilled engineer, an astute leader, a capable administrator and a true team man, who is taking the company to new heights of success and glory

Endowed with a superlative marketing flair, Sunil Kumar Agarwal has been the force behind the strong and efficient pan-India marketing network of Kamdhenu brand. With his keen understanding of the market dynamics, he has been charting the growth of the company within the Indian steel sector.

Just after completing his B.E. (Chemical) from H.B.T.I., Kanpur, Sunil Kumar Agarwal started a legendary story of continuous success. An entrepreneur to the core, Sunil Kumar Agarwal has gained a rich expertise in the production and commerce, involving steel industry for over 35 years.

Sunil Kumar Agarwal has been among the chief initiators behind Kamdhenu’s foray into steel verticals such as TMT Bars, Structural steel and wirebond. He has mobilized the performing steel products manufacturing units across the country to join Kamdhenu and gain better market foothold in the steel sector.

Conceptualizing and implementing the franchisee model for the exponential growth of Kamdhenu brand is the masterstroke of Sunil Kumar Agarwal. He has been the brain behind the strategy of franchisee alliance with the competent companies in the regional steel market and overseeing the company’s Expansion Division. He has contributed significantly in identifying companies and units involved in the manufacturing of TMT Bars, Structural Steel, Binding Wires, colour-coated sheets and plywood. His vision, right decisions and relentless effort helped the company to gain more than 60 Franchisee Partners in the process and emerge as a major player of Indian Steel Sector.

Firming up the franchisee models, he has guided the company through impending challenges and hascapitalized on the opportunities on the way. His high adaptability to the changing domestic scenario and a keen understanding about the market trends has helped the company stand stronger.

He led the way towards upgradation of the plants within units to make each of them viable for manufacturing of international-quality steel products. Dedicated to innovations and latest technology, Sunil Kumar Agarwal believes in better processes for increased production based on improved parameters.

Sunil Kumar Agarwal is the brain behind the strategy of franchisee alliance with the competent companies in the regional steel market and overseeing the company’s Expansion Division

It is the result of Sunil Kumar Agarwal’s continuous hard work, dedication and his ever search for new ideas to make Kamdhenu a major brand in the steel technology that today Kamdhenu is known not only for high quality TMT bars and other products, but it has also engaged in producing innovative products under his guidance and encouragement. He has the mark of a leader who doesn’t follow the beaten track, but carves out a new path for himself and makes people believe in forging new avenues under the confidence of his leadership. Sunil Kumar Agarwal has definitely given Kamdhenu a new direction to become the leading light in its own field in the country.

Pearl of UAE

The Al Ghurair family is quite famous in the UAE since the early days of the 20th century, as family members, mainly Ahmad Al Ghurair and his son Saif, were involved in pearl diving and its trading. With the gradual accumulation of capital, the Al Ghurair Group was established by Ahmad Al Ghurair in 1960 as a family business. His five sons – Saif, Abdulla, Majid, Marwan and Jomaa – helped him manage the family business.

Around that period, the Rulers of Dubai, the Al Maktoum family, had started creating the Dubai as we know it today, and the leading business families of Dubai assisted the ruler in the country’s economic growth and development – the role the Al Ghurair family played in the development was commendable.

Strong Foundation

Abdulla Al Ghurair’s efforts to make sure that the family ran all its businesses jointly with understanding and stayed together are highly respectful. He spearheaded the family group to establish a number of businesses that proved to be visionary, are instrumental in creating UAE’s strong financial presence in the global economy, and are a boon for the locals. In 1967, Abdulla Al Ghurair, son of Ahmad Al Ghurair, founded the Bank of Oman (it was named Mashreq Bank in 1994), which is today one of the foremost financial institutions of UAE, and is consistently growing to nearby regions such as Kuwait, Egypt, Bahrain and Qatar. Abdulla Al Ghurair and family have led it with immense commitment to first make it UAE’s largest private bank by 1980s, and then bring it to a level where currently its performance is counted as one of the highest among all financial institutions in the UAE.

Two Complementary Groups

The 1990s saw an amicable split between brothers Abdulla Al Ghurair and Saif Ahmad Al Ghurair, and two distinctive yet complementary groups emerged: Al Ghurair Investment (also known as Abdulla Al Ghurair Group) and the Al Ghurair Group (also known as Saif Al Ghurair Group). Abdulla bin Ahmad Al Ghurair is the Chairman of the Al Ghurair Investment and takes care of the finance, construction and food verticals of the family business.

With an experience and business roots of about 50 years as a support, Abdulla Al Ghurair has created a name for himself and his family, which some consider synonymous to the UAE. He worked hard to build a reputation and a string of successful ventures without compromising on the values and commitment, which are the cornerstone of any business establishment. The aura of stability and dynamism he projects was chosen to be represented in the logo of the Group – a diamond square – incorporating the resilience and quality of diamonds, the focus indicated by a square shape, and unity of purpose represented by the merged shape of a square and a diamond.

It’s not only the rich heritage, but also pioneering ideas, innovative approach to business and products, and eventually excellence, commitment, responsibility and trust, which are associated with Abdulla Al Ghurair’s various businesses.

Born in 1944 and a Chartered Accountant from the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England & Wales (ICAEW), Mr. Deepak Parekh is at the financial helm of India Inc. In 1978 Mr. Parekh joined India’s premier housing finance company HDFC Ltd. as Deputy General Manager and then went on to become its Chairman in 1993.

ACCELERATING GROWTH

HDFC’s growth in stature and strength since its inception (1977), has been achieved by a steadfast focus on sound values such as integrity, transparency and professionalism, and underpinned by a basic belief of trust by the Indian middleclass.

Mr. Deepak Parekh, has not only preserved the ethos of the company, but has also strengthened it with time. His astute business acumen and farsightedness has not only made HDFC the leader in Mortgages, but also transformed it into a financial conglomerate with presence in Banking, Asset Management, Life Insurance, General Insurance, Real Estate Venture Fund and Education finance.

In 1970, Mr. Parekh began his career with Ernst & Ernst Management Consultancy Services in New York. Thereafter he worked with Grindlays Bank and Chase Manhattan Bank for about three years each prior to joining HDFC in 1978.

LEADING FROM THE FRONT

Besides HDFC Group Companies, Mr. Parekh is on the board of several leading corporations across diverse sectors. He is the Nonexecutive Chairman in India of BAE Systems India (Services) Pvt Ltd, Glaxo Smithkline Pharmaceuticals and Siemens. He is also on the boards of Fairfax India Holdings Corporation, Indian Hotels Company Ltd, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd, Network18 Media and Investments ltd and international boards of DP World – UAE and Vedanta Resources Plc.. He is also on the Advisory Board of several Indian corporate and MNC’s. In addition to being known for his vociferous views seeking standardization and transparency in the real estate sector, Mr. Parekh is dubbed as the unofficial crisis consultant of the Government.

KEEPING IT CLEAN

Taking care of such important positions in life, he never forgets to ensure that neither he nor the people he meets ever forget the importance of clean business. And values or culture are not developed overnight. It’s a painstaking process and Parekh ensures that neither he nor the people he is associated with ever forget the importance of correctness. It is one of the prime reasons that he has the habit of gifting miniature yellow signboards to colleagues and business associates. The little yellow signboard has compliance written on it, with a sketch of a slippery slope below it. Parekh has made clean business not only a cornerstone of how the HDFC group is run, but also embodies that spirit in his dealings with others in the world of business and politics.

It’s perhaps for this that young professionals often turn to him for advice when they have a doubt. Every week, he devotes time for young guns that often pick his brains on a variety of subjects. His ability to rise above narrow interests and passion for doing the right thing has drawn even the government and policy makers to his doorstep. Over the years, he has emerged as the crisis manager for the government, even on subjects that have nothing to do with finance.

The Fortune Spinner

When Anil Dhirubhai Ambani inherited business from his father in 2002, he was quite confident of turning it into a billion dollar conglomerate. An avid marathoner, Anil Ambani has paced his career too well. For Reliance Anil Dhirubhai Ambani Group (ADAG), being a giant in the Indian conglomerate sector with an impressive presence in power, communications, infrastructure and capital funds across India was not enough. And Anil Amnbani was well-versed with this reality. Anil took on the management of the Reliance Group as the Chief Executive Officer.
At present, the Reliance Anil Dhirubhai Ambani Group is amongst India’s top 5 business houses and has the world’s largest Shareholder/Investor base of over 13 million.

Over the past couple of decades, Anil Ambani has transformed Reliance ADAG from being restricted to a single sector to being the leading business conglomerate in India. The group has assets in excess of Rs. 2,60,000 crore (USD 43 billion); annual revenues of the order of Rs. 56,000 crore (USD 9 billion); net worth of over Rs. 98,000 crore (USD 16 billion); and over 1,00,000 employees.

He currently chairs the Anil Dhirubhai Ambani Group, with an estimated net revenue exceeding USD 12.5 billion. Anil took Reliance to great heights and today the group is a prominent name in several industries. He was also elected to be an independent Member of the Rajya Sabha in the year 2004. One of his many successful ventures has been the business acquisition of Adlabs, a dominant name in the entertainment sector.

He is the man who positioned Reliance at an approximate worth of USD 2 billion from the overseas financial markets. Not only is he an eminent personality in the corporate world, but is also popular amongst the youth, as he is fondly called a youth icon by many budding entrepreneurs across the world.

“Super brands” are not easy to make, and sometimes take generations to create. Ashok Kajaria—through relentless and indefatigable efforts, unwavering dedication for quality, and an enthusiasm for innovation—made Kajaria Ceramics a Super Brand in less than 3 decades. Kajaria Ceramics is internationally renowned today due to Ashok Kajaria’s unparalleled experience in the field—he keeps track of every relevant movement in the industry and uses it to his advantage. In the last 30 years, his strategic understanding of the market, production and the brands in the Ceramics industry has made Kajaria Ceramics a colossal brand.

Ashok Kajaria has reached new heights of production, meeting the national and international demands, through a three-pronged strategy: expanding the domestic production capacity, tie-ups with other facilities, and acquisitions. Strategic planning for further acquisitions is ongoing with a target for a greater hold in the domestic market, and eventually greater production capacity. In FY 2014–15, Kajaria Ceramics crossed a turnover of $370 million, and they are aiming for 18–20% topline growth in FY 2015–16. In three years, March 2013 to March 2016, Kajaria is projecting a turnover of almost $470 million plus and for that the company needs capex of approximately $66-70 million. Ashok Kajaria’s vision and leadership provision has made all this possible, and the future promising!

Ashok Kajaria’s leadership factors include 30 years of experience in the Ceramics industry, evolving into a deep understanding of the ins and outs of the market; intelligently utilising acquisitions to create a high market value; outperforming competitors by maintaining quality throughout; and displaying a rare level of vision and zeal for innovation that others in the industry are yet to match.