“Hi, I’m ITI. My journey has been shaped by a deep passion for advocacy, a drive to challenge stereotypes, and a commitment to uplifting those around me. It has been a path of learning and beautiful moments of connection. Here is a glimpse into my story and the experiences that have shaped me.”
My story begins in Patna, Bihar, a city that shaped me with its beautiful blend of discipline and community. Growing up, my life was a mix of busy early mornings and structured routines, thanks to my father’s disciplined Army career. Each day started with the dawn and ended with the calm of early nights. Sports, especially basketball, played an important role in my childhood. I pursued it with zeal, even reaching the junior state level. But beyond the court and classroom, what truly set me apart was my deep-seated passion for making a difference.
As a child, I was an active member of “Tarumitra,” an environmental protection organization. My evenings were spent teaching underprivileged children in a local school. These early experiences instilled in me the values of empathy and community service, a few principles that have guided me throughout my life.
After completing my studies in Fashion Management at NIFT, I set on a corporate journey that spanned nearly a decade. I was fortunate to work with renowned companies like Arvind, Nike, and Apple. My time in the retail industry was fulfilling, but the entrepreneurial bug bit me hard. Despite the comfort of a high-paying job, I felt a calling to do more.
So, I took a leap of faith and founded Thinkhall Training and Consultancy. My vision was clear: to bridge the gap between education and industry needs. The retail sector, a major employer in India, was suffering from a shortage of skilled professionals. Thinkhall aimed to address this by providing top-notch training and creating job opportunities for the youth.
On a personal level, my passions have evolved over the years. I have embraced a healthier lifestyle, focusing on regular exercise and a balanced diet. But my true passion lies in supporting women’s financial independence. I believe that when women are empowered economically, it not only fuels economic growth but also advances other important goals like environmental protection, safer workplaces, and the elimination of unemployment.
Another important philosophy I follow is simple: “Learn, earn, and burn.” I believe that continuous learning is beyond important for living a fulfilling life. I strive to absorb knowledge from every detail and interaction, maintaining a minimalistic and sustainable lifestyle. This approach keeps me grounded and helps me appreciate the present moment.
One thing I wish more people understood about me is my straightforwardness. I value honesty and meaningful conversations. I avoid small talk and shallow discussions, preferring to engage in deep, genuine conversations. My focus is on growth and learning, and I seek out relationships and discussions that align with these values.
If I could speak to my younger self, I would offer words of encouragement and gratitude. I would thank her for making the right choices and learning from mistakes. I’d urge her to continue taking risks and embracing mistakes as valuable learning experiences. The path to success is paved with perseverance by heart.
One of my most fulfilling achievements is the creation of the Red Dot Initiative. During the pandemic, I realized the urgent need to support domestic violence victims. The Red Dot Initiative allows victims to secretly signal for help using a red dot on their palm. This simple yet powerful symbol has helped rescue countless individuals and provide them with the support they need.
I’d say, my journey has not been without its challenges. Early on, I faced skepticism when leaving a high-paying job to start my own venture. The retail sector’s need for skilled professionals was evident, but building Thinkhall from scratch was no easy feat. The pandemic brought additional hurdles, but we adapted quickly, embracing online training and eventually securing our growth path.
Looking back, I am proud of many milestones. From transitioning from corporate life to entrepreneurship, to supporting domestic violence survivors and empowering women, I hold each achievement close to my heart. My current focus is on enhancing Thinkhall Academy as a premier skill development center. I aim to redefine success not just by financial metrics but by the number of lives impacted.
As I look to the future, my aspirations are rooted in continuing to support and uplift others. I hope to leave behind a legacy of empowerment and positive change. I’d say, my journey is a witness to the power of following one’s passion and the impact it can have on both personal and professional life.
Iti’s story has been one of growth, learning, and a strong commitment to making a difference. Over the years, her efforts have been recognized in various ways. She was honored with the “Social Leader of the Year 2019” award by Indian Business Women and featured in the Levi’s global campaign “I Shape My World” alongside other global changemakers. She has also been named one of ETHR’s 40 Under 40 Emerging Leaders in 2023.
Through her journey, we hope to inspire individuals to pursue their dreams, embrace challenges, and make a meaningful impact in the world, one step at a time.
Founder – Thinkhall Training and Consultancy
