Inspiring Conversations 3 (Highlights) with Sussanne Roshan. Interviewed by Agnelorajesh Athaide

Summary

In this inspiring interview, the founder of Charcoal Project discusses her passion for design and architecture, which led her to create a store that tells a story through experiences rather than just selling products. She emphasizes the importance of teamwork, learning from mistakes, and collaboration as keys to her entrepreneurial success. With a vision to expand into real estate, she aims to leave her mark on every space she touches, bringing her unique design philosophy to life.

Takeaways

• 🎨 The Charcoal Project represents the transformation of ordinary spaces into something special and exciting, inspired by the potential of charcoal to change when ignited.
• 💡 Entrepreneurship is driven by passion and the ability to visualize one's goals, with the belief that everyone has an entrepreneurial spirit within them.
• 🚀 Starting a business involves learning from mistakes and understanding the importance of administration and operations alongside creativity.
• 👥 Teamwork is essential, with the need to hire good people who are open to change and growth, fostering a collaborative company culture.
• 🌐 Collaboration is key to growth, and it's beneficial to work with others outside the organization to bring new perspectives and ideas.
• 🏫 The impact of education, particularly in design and a supportive environment, can greatly influence one's development and success.
• 🌟 An open and curious mind is crucial for continuous learning and improvement, regardless of one's qualifications or experience.
• 📚 Learning can come from various sources such as books, travel, exhibitions, and meeting with renowned architects.
• 💼 Competition should be viewed as an opportunity for learning and collaboration rather than a threat, with the belief that the market is large enough for everyone.
• 🌍 The vision for the Charcoal Project is to expand into real estate and leave a mark on the environment by bringing a unique experience to every project.

Q & A

What inspired the name 'Charcoal Project'?

The name 'Charcoal Project' was inspired by the speaker's childhood fascination with art and architecture. Charcoal is seen as something ordinary and unexciting until it is ignited, which then becomes special. This represents the transformation that the speaker aims to achieve with each project, bringing life and excitement to spaces that were previously dull.

How does the speaker define entrepreneurship?

The speaker defines entrepreneurship as passion. They believe that if you love what you do and can visualize your goals, nothing can stop you from achieving them. They also emphasize that everyone has an entrepreneur within them and the key is to find and nurture that spirit.

What was the speaker's approach to starting a business?

The speaker started her business without a structured plan or rules. She learned from every mistake and saw them as opportunities for growth. She focused on hiring good people with open minds who were willing to grow and adapt.

Why is teamwork important to the speaker?

The speaker believes in teamwork 100%, stating that no single person can do it all. She emphasizes the importance of having a well-structured organization where each person excels in their role and collaborates effectively.

How does the speaker view growth for her business?

The speaker views growth as a combination of expanding the organization and collaborating with others. She believes in maintaining a balance between internal growth and external partnerships to bring in new ideas and perspectives.

What criteria does the speaker use for collaborations?

The speaker looks for collaborations that can bring a new language to her designs and set her apart from others. She values uniqueness and is willing to invest in collaborations that, although potentially more expensive, can provide a competitive edge.

How did the speaker's education in California influence her?

The speaker's education in California was instrumental in activating her design brain. She was taught that there is no wrong design, which encouraged her to be creative and think differently.

What is the speaker's approach to continuous learning?

The speaker believes in maintaining an open and curious mind, similar to that of a child, to continuously learn. She emphasizes the importance of being open to criticism and growth, regardless of one's qualifications or experience.

What are the speaker's methods for learning and staying inspired?

The speaker learns from meeting new people, traveling, visiting exhibitions, and studying architecture and art. She believes that travel expands the mind and helps in understanding different design choices.

How does the speaker view competition?

The speaker does not see competition as a game to be won. Instead, she believes in collaboration and learning from competitors. She views the world as having enough space for everyone to succeed and grow together.

What is the speaker's long-term vision for Charcoal Project?

The speaker's long-term vision is for Charcoal Project to expand into real estate and create unique, differentiated experiences with each project. She aspires to leave her mark on spaces around the world by 'charcoaling' them with her passion.

What is the speaker's advice on dealing with setbacks?

The speaker advises viewing setbacks as learning opportunities. She emphasizes the importance of not getting disheartened and using challenges as motivation to improve and grow.