Last Thursdays, which is a joint effort of Entrepreneurs for Nepal, E4N and Samriddhhi, The Prosperity Foundation, is a networking event that invites a successful entrepreneur as the chief spokesperson every last Thursday of the month.[break]
In a light and very interactive style, Hajuri spoke of her initial days and the journey that led her to becoming the proprietor of the pickle company that produces 49 different varieties of achar.
“It’s been 17 years now,” she shared. Hajuri’s journey began with a training she received from WEAN Cooperative along with 24 other women. The training was intended at helping housewives to marketing their homemade products.
After the completion of the course, she began work with two other friends who had also participated in the training. “I began from my kitchen,” she smiled. It took her three whole years to be able to step out of her kitchen and establish a production center.
Even then, for her, the going was nowhere near easy. She faced rejection and humiliation along the way. These hindrances, however, never shook the determination of this lady.
“I’ve come across many instances when people have made discriminatory remarks simply because I’m a woman,” she said. These very instances, she claimed, made her stronger and worked like an inspiration for her to do better. “Even at the VAT registration office, the officer was reluctant to help me with my paperwork,” she said, adding, “I was a female in a man’s world, and that too with a small business of pickles.”
Hajuri, who started her business with a mere sum Rs 10,000, is now the proud owner of the largest packaged pickle industry in the country.
Republica caught up with Hajuri for an interview. Excerpts:
How did the idea of pickles occur to you?
After the (WEAN) training was over, all of us decided to venture into our own business. We also decided that no two of us do the same business. Pickle was on my part because I had shown particular interest in it even during the training, as I personally believe no Nepali meal is complete without a pinch of pickle.
Who are your largest customers?
Although people might get the idea that my customers consist of only housewives, it’s not true. My pickles are fast becoming gifts people take and send to their relatives abroad. Also, the meat pickles that my company produces are a favorite with youngsters.
What would you mention as your biggest achievement from the business?
I’ve received quite a few recognitions and awards, including the Laxmi Women Entrepreneur Award and Outstanding Woman Awards from the Management Association of Nepal (MAN). I, however, consider my customers’ satisfaction the greatest award.
Tell us about your success formula?
There are two most essential points to keep in mind for every entrepreneur. The first is honesty. When I say honesty, I not only mean being clear about your accounts but your work. For me, using quality products to fill in the best taste in every bottle is being honest. The second is the bond you share with your employees. After all, they are the ones who are doing the actual work, and bringing out the best in them is your skill.
What do you have to say to the youth of today?
The youth of today are blessed with opportunities we couldn’t even think of. From education to lifestyle, things are so easy and accessible. Doing business has become so much easier due to technology. Youngsters need to take advantage of this instead of complaining about minor problems that arise. Please understand that political instability should never bring you down. Instead, it should inspire you to work harder in whichever field you may be engaged. Also, no work is big or small: dedication and honesty will always lead you to success.
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