Think multifaceted and talented and you can count a few people on a single hand. But the new tides bring in a bunch of young, zealous creatives and entrepreneurs that defy perceptions and limitations. The latest generation, especially, is keen on taking up novel challenges, dominating markets and revolutionizing industries. And one such young entrepreneur is this week’s TC46 self-starter – Kanvika Nayar. She’s an actor, entrepreneur, manages a charitable education project and a commercial jewellery brand.
In conversation with TC46, Kanvika, a 23-year-old young, multi-talented entrepreneur shares her journey of inspiring people of her age. Here, she talks about owning several skills and talents, the start to her multiple projects and how exploring similar brands can be the research you need.
1. What is your educational and professional background? Tell us more about your journey as an actor, graphic designer, freelancer and entrepreneur.
During my school and college days, I was always seen out of class participating in various competitions and school activities. I was always a creative and fun child. I studied the IB Diploma programme in 12th Standard from JPIS Jaipur and went to ISDI Parsons Mumbai to study Fashion Communication. Alongside, I hold a degree in Sociology and practice in Tarot Card Reading. I am a trained dancer and student of Shiamak Davar. With the thought of pushing this skill forward and because of the flow of life, I landed in the world of acting. I am not a trained actor but I feel a dancer always has an inner actor. During my college years, I divided my day for several projects like – attending college, going for an audition, completing my homework, internship and my start up jewellery brand. Life was a bit hectic but more fun as I was doing what I love and making the most of everything.
2. What can you tell us about your charitable project in the education field?
People say that teaching is a tough job! For me, it was pleasurable. Opening Namah was a great experience for me. Teaching little kids and seniors taught me some key elements of parenting as well. I feel I was learning more than my students. A mini school after school was exciting for my students as well.
3. What prompted you to start Erka?
Firstly, I would like to mention that it’s a combination of my grandfather’s name and mine – surindERKAnvika. I always wanted to start a business with both our names. I am a jewellery lover but I felt that most women think the bigger the jewellery, the better it looks. The motto of my brand is to offer light and comfortable fashion that’s wearable and stylish at the same time.
4. Did you always know you wanted to work in this space?
No! Never! I actually wanted to become a pilot and for that, I really struggled hard with physics in school. If you go through my degrees and diplomas, it has nothing to do with what I am doing today. More than education, I feel observation and experience and, most importantly, people teach you real life and business.
Today I stand proud as an actor, spiritual card reader, graphic designer and a jewellery business owner and I have no degree for any of these. But life teaches you what you don’t expect so I am really proud of what I am doing and always will be.
5. What was your first work milestone and how did you get there?
Well, I don’t feel great today about my first milestone but back then I did feel huge gratitude towards it. It was the day I got my first break on TV. Also, the day I got my very first Erka order. Yes! That was something that brought a big smile to my face.
6. How long did it take you to monetise your venture? What was the turning point?
I was running my venture during my college so it took me some time to settle. The turning point for me was when I took more actions and not just plans.
Erka’s collection of curated jewellery is up for sale on Red Dot Shop here, TC46’s e-commerce marketplace for everything local!
7. Are there any online/offline courses you would recommend for starting a jewellery brand?
It’s great if you take up courses but explore jewellery brands first. Experience their branding from how they showcase their products to colours to language, how they sell, you will learn a lot.
8. What are some investments (monetary or otherwise) one should be ready to make when entering the jewellery space?
Money, that’s the first priority. Time is key as well, jewellery design and manufacturing along with photoshoots take a lot of time. Keep in mind that your emotions will be affected because it’s natural. And the last part is your energy, walking through markets is no easy task.
Think you’re a Self-Starter or know someone who is? Drop us an email to be featured on The Channel 46 at partnerships@anvilmedia.in.
About Self-Starters
We spotlight inspiring women who are entrepreneurs or have skill-based passion projects and are willing to share knowledge, advice and tips about getting started in the space. Each Self-Starter’s story will be highlighted in a prime slot on the Homepage for a whole week, after which their story will appear under the ‘Work’ category on The Channel 46.
