Almas Jiwani Foundation
Almas Jiwani’s entrepreneurial journey has been an exhilarating odyssey, propelled by an unyielding passion for the world of business. Although she initially set her sights on law school, circumstances led her to a pivotal decision to chart a unique path. This unexpected detour turned out to be a blessing in disguise, uncovering hidden entrepreneurial talents that would define her success.
Amidst unforeseen challenges and shattered dreams, Almas embraced uncertainty with unwavering determination. Through honed salesmanship and persuasive communication, she triumphantly secured prestigious clients like Air Canada, American Express, Sunquest Vacations, and Alitalia. This early triumph marked the commencement of her relentless pursuit of excellence, where she navigated the ever-evolving landscape of business development.
“Embrace uncertainty with determination, for within the road less travelled lies hidden entrepreneurial brilliance.” – Almas Jiwani
Almas’s inspiration to launch her own business emerged from her innate entrepreneurial prowess, acknowledged by corporate leaders during her tenure with the Aga Khan Council for Canada. As a young female entrepreneur, she confronted numerous challenges demanding resilience and adaptability. However, her unwavering determination, personal sacrifices, and hard work paved the way for her to transcend these hurdles. Almas’s journey was a testament that no formidable obstacle could deter her from success.
Presently, Almas’s entrepreneurial endeavors revolve around international ventures, where she is instrumental in introducing and representing multiple companies. Leveraging her extensive global network, she passionately advocates for these companies through her finely honed sales and negotiation skills. Additionally, she actively participates in advisory boards, enhancing her impact on business development.
For Almas, success as an entrepreneur entails achieving personal fulfilment and financial stability. This definition has driven her to battle fears and anxieties while upholding an unrelenting work ethic. Continuous learning, adaptability, and nurturing relationships with clients and stakeholders form the cornerstones of her approach to success.
“Success is a symphony of personal fulfilment and financial stability, orchestrated by hard work, adaptability, and nurturing relationships.”
Almas attributes her triumph to a constellation of qualities: hard work, resilience, self-motivation, adaptability, networking prowess, and passion. Embracing continuous learning, seeking mentorship, and maintaining a positive mindset are integral aspects of her journey. Networking and mentorship, according to Almas, propel entrepreneurs to unprecedented heights. Networking unlocks avenues for learning, collaboration, and connections with potential clients and partners. Almas’s own experiences in networking have led to strategic partnerships and invaluable insights. Mentorship, on the other hand, offers guidance and wisdom from experienced perspectives, strengthening an entrepreneur’s foundation.
Almas’s journey hasn’t been devoid of setbacks. She faced challenges like clients or suppliers filing for bankruptcy. Yet, through diversification, robust relationships, and a positive outlook, she navigated these obstacles, emerging even stronger. Almas believes in the significance of social and environmental initiatives. She actively engages in environmental sustainability, ethical sourcing, community engagement, women’s economic empowerment, and education and youth development to create a positive impact on society. Balancing entrepreneurship and life hasn’t been without its challenges for Almas. She admits to facing fears, anxieties, and even depression. Nevertheless, drawing strength from her two cherished angels, unwavering support system, self-belief, dedication to hard work, positive attitude, and faith have been her guiding principles.
“Entrepreneurship is the canvas where passion, perseverance, and belief shatter gender biases, inspiring others to paint their own paths of success.”
As a female entrepreneur, Almas encountered gender biases and challenges. Instead of being defined by stereotypes, she focused on tangible results and professionalism. Almas advocates for gender equality through various platforms, challenging biases and inspiring other women to pursue their dreams.
“Networking and mentorship are the wings that elevate entrepreneurs to majestic heights, propelling growth through collaboration and wisdom.”
Almas imparts valuable lessons: embracing failure, continuous learning, building a support system, persistence, resilience, customer-centricity, and effective communication.
Almas’s advice for young women considering entrepreneurship is to believe in themselves, embrace their uniqueness, seek mentorship, learn from failures, build networks, and stay persistent. Her journey serves as an example of breaking barriers and inspiring others.
Almas’s future goals encompass global impact, gender equality advocacy, sustainable development, and philanthropy. She aspires to expand her international influence, empower others, and contribute to causes that promote education, healthcare, and economic empowerment. With unwavering dedication, Almas aims to continue inspiring generations of entrepreneurs and making a lasting positive impact on society.
“Resilience transforms setbacks into stepping stones, as diversity in challenges only strengthens the entrepreneurial spirit.”