ITpreneurs 9X9 — an IT event at SGCCI, Surat
ITPRENEURS 9X9
Wednesday, 28 September 2022
It was a refreshing experience attending an exciting event yesterday evening “ITpreneurs 9X9” Season 5 Episode 1 (S5E1) organised by The Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce & Industry at Samruddhi, Nanpura, Surat, under their flagship initiative “Entrepreneurship Lounge”. The programme’s objective was clear: to present success stories of ITpreneurs who have achieved exponential growth in the last 5 years. To my mind, the objective was fully accomplished.
The auditorium was jam-packed mostly with young budding stars, and the event was full of insights, information, and fun. Mr Sanjay Punjabi, a veteran mentor and leader, set the scene with his informal introductory interaction with the audience. The star speakers of the evening were successful IT entrepreneurs. They energetically shared their stories; what problems they faced, what strategies they devised, and what accolades they received.
?Star Guest Speakers
Mr. Alpesh Vaghasiya | Mr. Ganpat Dhameliya | Mr. Kalpesh Kotadiya | Ms. Komal Dholakiya | Ms. Mayuri Ruparel | Ms. Mukti Roy | Mr. Nachiket Patel | Mr. Punit Gajera | Mr. Sailesh Khawani
The programme was ably compered by Dr Rakesh Doshi, a senior IT entrepreneur, and competently moderated by Mr Chetan Patel, a popular trainer in Surat’s IT world.
The post-session high tea (sponsored by Mahek IT Park) gave ample opportunities for networking for budding entrepreneurs.
Just a few points I was able to learn/glean and remember:
- A person who couldn’t read or write properly till std 7 is now running a successful IT company.
- Plan and vision are different.
- Backbenchers at school or college have also done amazingly well once they find a calling.
- Senior professionals/businessmen in IT are and have always been willing to help newcomers and each other. There’s no unhealthy competition.
- Various bodies such as SGCCI are taking an active role in the growth of this sector in Surat.
- Many Surat-based companies have already done remarkable work and business with national and international clients. For instance, National Stock Exchange has been using “Surati” software, I mean it was prepared in Surat. 😉
- One can’t ignore financial information–data, processing, analysis, etc.
- Relationship management is important in this industry.
- Networking is crucial for success in the IT field. Contacts matter!
- When you need help, ASK. There are people out there willing to help.
- If language is a barrier, overcome it. Get trained and get your employees trained.
- More opportunities should be given to female entrepreneurs.
- Travelling is a great teacher.
- Reading, brooding, sharing — universal keys to success.
- Ups and downs are part of a journey. Don’t give up.
- Keep on learning. Adopt, adapt and act as per the need.
I am sure I have missed many points due to my poor memory. Apologies!
The speeches of the SGCCI office bearers Mr Himanshu Bodawala (President) and Mr Ramesh Vaghasia (Vice-president) were to the point and inspiring.
I look forward to attending more such events in Surat.
Best wishes,
Dharmendra
Dr Dharmendra Sheth
Founder, Fluentlingua,
Surat