“If opportunity doesn’t knock, build a door.”

Growing up as the youngest of three siblings, I’ve always had an independent spirit. I had a strong desire to explore and discover new things, but being part of a South Asian household, my parents often cautioned that I was too young. With limited financial resources due to my parents’ divorce and the added responsibility of caring for my older sister, who has severe autism, I had to make the most of what I had. Surprisingly, it worked for a while. More importantly, this journey instilled a sense of confidence in me. I nurtured a dream, and I eventually convinced my parents to allow me to pursue it. Their constant advice to keep trying, even in the face of initial failures, echoed in my mind when I expressed my desire to start my own business.When they expressed concerns about the possibility of failure, I reminded them that failure is merely a stepping stone on the path to success. My response left them speechless but incredibly proud of my determination. After all, I firmly believe that without taking risks, we can’t reap the rewards.

As they voiced their worries about the potential for failure, I reassured them that setbacks are simply part of the journey toward success. My reply left them without words but filled with a profound sense of pride in my unwavering resolve. Ultimately, I hold the belief that without embracing risks, we cannot attain the corresponding rewards.

The journey began with my COVID-inspired baking project, initiated during that unforgettable, unspoken-of summer, in collaboration with my friend Kirsten. We named it “Quarantine Confections.” My primary goals were to lift people’s spirits, occupy my time productively, and contribute to the community. Remarkably, I was just 14 years old at the time, but as you can witness in the video below, my passion for baking had ignited even earlier.