Pooja Dhingra and Palak Shah have both carved their unique paths to success, asserting themselves in fields where few dared to tread. Their stories exemplify the power of vision, determination, and a willingness to push boundaries. They are both part of the coveted Forbes India under 30 alumni, a testament to their achievements and influence.
"It was never just about the macarons; it was about proving that a dream can reshape an entire industry," shares Pooja Dhingra, the founder of Le15 Patisserie, brought a taste of Paris to Mumbai with her macarons, an idea that took root during her time in France. She broke away from the conventional path when she left law school to pursue her love for desserts. She defied societal norms of following a 'safer' career path, choosing to enter a bold industry often considered unconventional for women. After realizing that India lacked the delicacies she had come to love abroad, she set out to change that, overcoming the challenges posed by local ingredients and climate.
Her success didn’t come overnight; it took years of innovation, blending international techniques with local elements. Today, Dhingra is a pioneer in the Indian patisserie industry, growing her business with passion and precision, and setting the standard for aspiring entrepreneurs. Ms Dhingra proved that innovation and persistence can overcome obstacles.
"For me, it was about honoring tradition while simultaneously evolving it for the modern world," remarks Palak Shah, who stepped into her family’s traditional textile business but redefined its direction with her brand Ekaya. Shah challenged the conventional role women were expected to play, turning her vision into a thriving business that merged heritage with modernity.
Rather than simply continuing the legacy, she transformed it by bringing Indian handloom into the global fashion space. Her vision allowed her to step beyond expectations, facilitating collaborations with leading designers and creating contemporary collections that made heritage textiles relevant in modern wardrobes. Her outfit has managed to deliver output that is both timeless and modern in equal measure.
Both women have not only achieved success but have also created spaces where others can thrive. They defied convention, trusted their instincts, and followed their passions, proving that perseverance and innovation are the keys to longevity in competitive industries. While their paths were different, the driving force behind their success was the same: an unwavering belief in their ability to shape their future.
Their journeys reflect a shared belief that success comes from doing what is right for oneself, regardless of convention. L'Oréal Paris, along with Forbes India, celebrates the journey of these enterprising women. As they continue to grow their ventures, they remind us that no matter what choices we make, we are worth it.
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