HOW FAILURE FUELLED NINA LEKHI TO BUILD A FLOURISHING BRAND, BAGGIT

Entrepreneurial journey of Nina Lekhi, Founder, Baggit was nothing short of extraordinary. As a young woman, she faced setbacks in her academic pursuits, finding herself forced to take a year off from college. But Nina was not one to be deterred by challenges. Determined to prove her worth, she embarked on a journey fueled by resilience and ambition. As she continues to shape the future of entrepreneurship, Nina’s journey serves as a beacon of hope for generations to come.

- Beny Sachdeva

What do you think helped you the most to become a successful entrepreneur?

I am an accidental entrepreneur who took refuge in making and selling handbags when I failed in my first year of college and forced to sit out a year. I had a burning desire to prove to myself and others around me that I am not a failure and I can accomplish things in life. The rest is history.

Could you share some key milestones or turning points in your journey as a woman leader.

I started selling my bags in exhibitions and got noticed. There were lucrative offers to supply to retail chains under their branding which I refused. Then I had big breaks with Regal shoes; Shoppers' Stop etc under Baggit branding. I also invested in brand building by opening exclusive stores, even though the initial 2/3 stores were loss-making till such time I perfected my retail concept. When we started franchising the retail concept, I knew we had become a brand.

What unique challenges have you faced as a female entrepreneur in franchising or entrepreneurial industry and how have you overcome them?