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Riding The Waves Of Entrepreneurship: How To Navigate The Highs And Lows Of Your Journey!

There will be days when you keep your hand on your head and not have things figured out. These days can be frustrating, overwhelming, and draining, leaving us feeling stuck and helpless. These feelings aren’t unusual in your entrepreneurial journey. 

During these times, it’s important to remember that it’s okay not to have all the answers. It’s only natural to have doubts, fears, and uncertainties, and it’s essential to acknowledge and accept these feelings rather than push them aside.

One way that helps me cope with hard days is to practice the pause and reflect on what’s causing any stress and confusion. 

Sometimes, the problem lies in trying to do too much, or we’re not approaching the situation in the right way. Other times, it may be that we’re facing a challenge that we’re not equipped to handle alone.

In these situations, it’s helpful to reach out to others for support and guidance. Having someone to talk to can provide a fresh perspective and help us gain clarity and insight.

Author-Sharika Mubarack

[aqcellor]

Beyond Earnings And Opportunities: Why Collaboration Is The Path To Sustainable Growth!

Competition is healthy, however, collaboration is priceless!

Collaboration is the process of working together with others to achieve a common goal. In contrast, competition is the act of striving to achieve a goal by outperforming others. While competition can have its place in certain contexts, collaboration is often a more powerful and effective approach in many situations. 

I have realized that most others do not realize how far one can go when you network and share strengths. Most professionals do not want to share information with peers or others, simply believing that sharing knowledge or hacks with others will limit them from their own earnings or opportunities. 

However, little do they realize that every person is unique. A person’s strengths are unique, their capabilities are different. From a spiritual perspective, we are taught that what is meant for you will always reach you and sustenance isn’t in your control. 

Therefore, when there is an opportunity to share synergy, do jump at it. Alone you may walk fast, together you walk far!

Author-Sharika Mubarack

[aqcellor]

The Entrepreneur’s Mindset: Embracing Creativity, Curiosity, And Adaptability!

Be like water’ says Bruce Lee! This came up at our goal-setting session at Aqcellor yesterday. As entrepreneurs, we can’t be fixated on specific ideas or mindsets. It needs to adapt to challenges or changing circumstances. Creativity and curiosity are the core of entrepreneurship. 

This is true even in life. Our life circumstances will never remain static. It will change. Therefore, our thoughts, like water, need to be flexible enough to flow through cracks, and dents and grow through it all. If we remain stubborn on certain mindsets, we will never be able to adapt and grow. 

Therefore, be formless like water, adapting your shape into any vessel you are poured into. Adapt through any circumstance in life and never underestimate the power of being like water, because water can crash as much as it can flow!

Author-Sharika Mubarack

[aqcellor]

The Power Of Mentorship In Aqcellor’s World!

There are many ways of learning about business, industry, and entrepreneurship but none can be as effective as learning through mentorship.

When you interact with a mentor you draw on his or her real-life experience, including the failures and disappointments encountered along the way, all of which are as important as the final success achieved.

A mentor is a role model, someone we look up to as exemplary in the way they conduct themselves in business. The ideal mentor will inculcate the right values and morals, which again, cannot be sourced through textbook learning.

Aqcellor places great importance on the role of mentorship in its Entrepreneurship Program. A mentor can address a budding entrepreneur’s questions and concerns from a lived-experience perspective. A mentor is in a position to allay the fears and doubts of a young businessperson who is perhaps on the verge of giving up. The mentor has usually been there too.

Believe in Yourself

Seven years ago, serial entrepreneur, respected educator, innovator, and mentor Heminda Jayaweera told a student of his, “Don’t believe the speculations of others. Prove whether your idea is working or not and determine everything from your results.” Those words of advice led Dineth Egodage and his team to start Sprintylab, a failed venture, followed by Ceyentra Technologies, today a highly successful tech company.

Dineth met Heminda again after seven years, when Heminda was invited to speak on the topic ‘Innovation Mindset’ at Aqcellor in May. It was a proud moment when the student, now CEO, was able to tell his mentor that Ceyentra has multiplied its revenue 10x within five years. “We still we have a lot to learn from him,” says Dineth. “He is one of the best mentors, who changed our entrepreneurial journey.”

Mentorship is About Giving Back

Take Chartered Accountant Anandan (Arni) Arnold, Partner at BBK Partnership, who after 36-plus years in the UK remains passionate about giving back to Sri Lanka. One of the many youths who left the island in 1983, not just for his personal safety but for education, it was assumed he would take to medicine like his older brother, already a doctor in the UK.

Amusingly, he recalled how soon after his arrival in the UK, he asked his brother why he hadn’t returned home over the weekend. The doctor replied he had been working on shift. Arni cheekily replied, “Well then being a doctor won’t work for me, I have to play cricket!”

He ended up in the field of Accountancy and never for a moment forgot his Jaffna roots. Through the decades Arni has remained steadfastly connected to the motherland. In June this year he escorted a team of 20 second-generation British-Sri Lankan graduates in their first year of employment, together with some undergraduates on a tour of the east and north of the island. Amongst them they possess various skills including IT, cutting edge AI knowledge, medical, social sciences and more. Starting in the east in Batticaloa, then proceeding to Jaffna via Trinco, Vavuniya, and Kilinochchi, over the course of two weeks, the travelers have visited many orphanages, special needs children’s schools and hospitals.

They’ve offered sports, music, and educational gifts along the way. However, it’s safe to say that beyond the tangibles, it’s the memories of the motivational chats, the mentoring and the friendship shared with the children in orphanages that will remain in the hearts of both the givers and the receivers.

For Arni, whether it’s being out in the field, giving back to rural folk while providing an enriching experience to British youth who may otherwise never experience their ancestral homeland, or offering accountancy services and mentorship to other Sri Lankan startups, the genuine giving spirit he possesses places him among that exceptional breed of the diaspora Sri Lanka is fortunate to acknowledge globally.

Mentorship is a Beautiful Thing

The beauty of mentorship is that it is a ‘service’ that (usually) comes free of charge with no strings attached. The mentor is typically a senior person within their industry, often retired and always deeply committed to nurturing new talent, improving the prospects of underprivileged communities, and giving back in general for all the blessings that have come their way.

Mentors are not bound by social strata because they themselves have in many cases risen from poverty or difficult circumstances to conquer all obstacles in their way. They embody the term, ‘self-made’. A true mentor is a friend for life, someone who will always be in your corner cheering you on.

Author-Ajita Kadirgamar

[aqcellor]

Building A Successful Startup: Aqcellor On The Importance Of Incubation Programs!

Building a startup is an exhilarating yet challenging journey. Entrepreneurs face numerous hurdles and uncertainties along the way, from conceptualizing a viable business idea to navigating the complexities of the market. However, with the right support and guidance, startups can thrive and reach their full potential. This is where incubation programs play a crucial role, and Aqcellor, with its comprehensive range of services, stands out as a valuable partner for startups across various industries.

One of the key pillars of Aqcellor’s incubation programs is mentoring. As highlighted by Sahan Wickramasinghe, Product Manager at Ceyentra Technologies, the program offers invaluable knowledge that can be applied both personally and in business processes. Through experienced mentors, participants gain insights into industry best practices, receive guidance on strategic decision-making, and benefit from the wisdom of seasoned entrepreneurs. This mentorship fosters growth and helps entrepreneurs navigate the challenges they encounter during the seed, idea, and growth stages of their businesses.

Networking is another critical aspect of Aqcellor’s incubation programs. As Aqeedah Hakim Sheriffdeen, the founder of Bake it Yourself and STUDIOBIY, testifies, the program provides a platform for participants to connect with a community of like-minded individuals. By interacting with fellow entrepreneurs and industry professionals, startups can build valuable relationships, forge partnerships, and gain exposure to diverse perspectives. Networking opportunities offered by Aqcellor empower entrepreneurs to expand their horizons and explore new possibilities for collaboration and growth.

In addition to mentoring and networking, Aqcellor’s incubation programs provide comprehensive business guidance. Tharika Keragala Arachchi, the founder of chemical-free personal care products The Empress, expresses gratitude for the fruitful and easy-to-understand sessions on goals and objectives. This exemplifies Aqcellor’s commitment to equipping entrepreneurs with the necessary knowledge and tools to develop effective business strategies. Through workshops, seminars, and one-on-one consultations, startups receive guidance on various aspects such as marketing, finance, operations, and scaling their businesses sustainably.

Aqcellor goes beyond theoretical knowledge by organizing events and programs that facilitate experiential learning. Funtronics, represented by student entrepreneurs Imaad Ifthikar and Riyas Renuzard, acknowledges the value of engaging with a community that possesses more experience and knowledge. By participating in these events, startups can learn from real-world case studies, share their own experiences, and gain practical insights that are crucial for success. Aqcellor’s emphasis on creating a supportive and collaborative environment fosters a culture of continuous learning and growth.

The testimonials of participants highlight Aqcellor’s ability to cater to startups from diverse industries. From technology and manufacturing to personal care products and even student-led ventures, Aqcellor’s incubation programs are designed to address the specific needs and pain points of each industry. Whether it’s guiding a product manager in a tech startup, reinvigorating an existing business affected by the pandemic, or empowering young entrepreneurs, Aqcellor’s expertise spans a wide range of sectors.

In conclusion, building a startup requires more than just a brilliant idea; it necessitates a strong support system and access to valuable resources. Aqcellor’s incubation programs offer a holistic approach to startup development, encompassing mentoring, networking, business guidance, and experiential learning. By leveraging the expertise and support provided by Aqcellor, startups can navigate the various stages of their journey with clarity, resilience, and confidence. 

As Zaynab Zafran, founder of The Bee’s Canvas, an online art education platform aptly summarizes, Aqcellor’s program has been extremely helpful both personally and in terms of business, providing a new perspective on goals and achievable milestones.

So, if you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or a startup in need of guidance, Aqcellor is your ideal partner to embark on a successful entrepreneurial journey. With our proven track record and dedication to fostering growth, Aqcellor’s incubation programs can turn your startup dreams into reality.

Author-Celina Caren

[aqcellor]

The Power Of Mentorship In Aqcellor’s World!

There are many ways of learning about business, industry, and entrepreneurship but none can be as effective as learning through mentorship.

When you interact with a mentor you draw on his or her real-life experience, including the failures and disappointments encountered along the way, all of which are as important as the final success achieved.

A mentor is a role model, someone we look up to as exemplary in the way they conduct themselves in business. The ideal mentor will inculcate the right values and morals, which again, cannot be sourced through textbook learning.

Aqcellor places great importance on the role of mentorship in its Entrepreneurship Program. A mentor can address a budding entrepreneur’s questions and concerns from a lived-experience perspective. A mentor is in a position to allay the fears and doubts of a young businessperson who is perhaps on the verge of giving up. The mentor has usually been there too.

Believe in Yourself

Seven years ago, serial entrepreneur, respected educator, innovator, and mentor Heminda Jayaweera told a student of his, “Don’t believe the speculations of others. Prove whether your idea is working or not and determine everything from your results.” Those words of advice led Dineth Egodage and his team to start Sprintylab, a failed venture, followed by Ceyentra Technologies, today a highly successful tech company.

Dineth met Heminda again after seven years, when Heminda was invited to speak on the topic ‘Innovation Mindset’ at Aqcellor in May. It was a proud moment when the student, now CEO, was able to tell his mentor that Ceyentra has multiplied its revenue 10x within five years. “We still we have a lot to learn from him,” says Dineth. “He is one of the best mentors, who changed our entrepreneurial journey.”

Mentorship is About Giving Back

Take Chartered Accountant Anandan (Arni) Arnold, Partner at BBK Partnership, who after 36-plus years in the UK remains passionate about giving back to Sri Lanka. One of the many youths who left the island in 1983, not just for his personal safety but for education, it was assumed he would take to medicine like his older brother, already a doctor in the UK.

Amusingly, he recalled how soon after his arrival in the UK, he asked his brother why he hadn’t returned home over the weekend. The doctor replied he had been working on shift. Arni cheekily replied, “Well then being a doctor won’t work for me, I have to play cricket!”

He ended up in the field of Accountancy and never for a moment forgot his Jaffna roots. Through the decades Arni has remained steadfastly connected to the motherland. In June this year he escorted a team of 20 second-generation British-Sri Lankan graduates in their first year of employment, together with some undergraduates on a tour of the east and north of the island. Amongst them they possess various skills including IT, cutting edge AI knowledge, medical, social sciences and more. Starting in the east in Batticaloa, then proceeding to Jaffna via Trinco, Vavuniya, and Kilinochchi, over the course of two weeks, the travelers have visited many orphanages, special needs children’s schools and hospitals.

They’ve offered sports, music, and educational gifts along the way. However, it’s safe to say that beyond the tangibles, it’s the memories of the motivational chats, the mentoring and the friendship shared with the children in orphanages that will remain in the hearts of both the givers and the receivers.

For Arni, whether it’s being out in the field, giving back to rural folk while providing an enriching experience to British youth who may otherwise never experience their ancestral homeland, or offering accountancy services and mentorship to other Sri Lankan startups, the genuine giving spirit he possesses places him among that exceptional breed of the diaspora Sri Lanka is fortunate to acknowledge globally.

Mentorship is a Beautiful Thing

The beauty of mentorship is that it is a ‘service’ that (usually) comes free of charge with no strings attached. The mentor is typically a senior person within their industry, often retired and always deeply committed to nurturing new talent, improving the prospects of underprivileged communities, and giving back in general for all the blessings that have come their way.

Mentors are not bound by social strata because they themselves have in many cases risen from poverty or difficult circumstances to conquer all obstacles in their way. They embody the term, ‘self-made’. A true mentor is a friend for life, someone who will always be in your corner cheering you on.

[aqcellor]

Riding The Waves Of Entrepreneurship: How To Navigate The Highs And Lows Of Your Journey!

There will be days when you keep your hand on your head and not have things figured out. These days can be frustrating, overwhelming, and draining, leaving us feeling stuck and helpless. These feelings aren’t unusual in your entrepreneurial journey. 

During these times, it’s important to remember that it’s okay not to have all the answers. It’s only natural to have doubts, fears, and uncertainties, and it’s essential to acknowledge and accept these feelings rather than push them aside.

One way that helps me cope with hard days is to practice the pause and reflect on what’s causing any stress and confusion. 

Sometimes, the problem lies in trying to do too much, or we’re not approaching the situation in the right way. Other times, it may be that we’re facing a challenge that we’re not equipped to handle alone.

In these situations, it’s helpful to reach out to others for support and guidance. Having someone to talk to can provide a fresh perspective and help us gain clarity and insight.

[aqcellor]

Beyond Earnings And Opportunities: Why Collaboration Is The Path To Sustainable Growth!

Competition is healthy, however, collaboration is priceless!

Collaboration is the process of working together with others to achieve a common goal. In contrast, competition is the act of striving to achieve a goal by outperforming others. While competition can have its place in certain contexts, collaboration is often a more powerful and effective approach in many situations. 

I have realized that most others do not realize how far one can go when one network and share strengths. Most professionals do not want to share information with peers or others, simply believing that sharing knowledge or hacks with others will limit them from their own earnings or opportunities. 

However, little do they realize that every person is unique. A person’s strengths are unique, their capabilities are different. From a spiritual perspective, we are taught that what is meant for you will always reach you and sustenance isn’t in your control. 

Therefore, when there is an opportunity to share synergy, do jump at it. Alone you may walk fast, together you walk far!

[aqcellor]

The Entrepreneur’s Mindset: Embracing Creativity, Curiosity, And Adaptability

Be like water’ says Bruce Lee! This came up at our goal-setting session at Aqcellor yesterday. As entrepreneurs, we can’t be fixated on specific ideas or mindsets. It needs to adapt to challenges or changing circumstances. Creativity and curiosity are the core of entrepreneurship. This is true even in life. Our life circumstances will never remain static. It will change. Therefore, our thoughts, like water, need to be flexible enough to flow through cracks, and dents and grow through it all. If we remain stubborn on certain mindsets, we will never be able to adapt and grow. Therefore, be formless like water, adapting your shape into any vessel you are poured into. Adapt through any circumstance in life and never underestimate the power of being like water, because water can crash as much as it can flow!