The Most Transformational Leaders Driving Business Growth in Industry-2024, November 2024

1. Vol 11 Issue 02 2024 The Most Transformational Leaders Driving Business Growth in Industry -2024 The Seed to Flower How can Managers Cul?vate Beginners' Minds in the Organiza?on? Curiosity killed Didn’t Kill the Cat! How to Heighten the Curiosity Factor among Employees? Krishna Prasad Nagaraj CEO and Founder The Skill Bridge Guiding the Next Generation of AI Pioneers and Innovators by Building Learning Communities

3. The The Most Most Transformational Leaders Driving Business Growth in -2024 Driving Business Growth in Industry

4. Editor's Note

5. MEET INDIA’S FUTURE INDUSTRIAL TRAJECTORY SHAPERS T he passing times of 2024 reflect an era of swift innovation and evolution across industries, where transformational leaders play a pivotal role in driving business growth. Distinguished not just by their strategic acumen, these leaders stood apart with their ability to navigate complexities, inspire teams, and foster cultures of innovation. This approach reflects a deep commitment to redefining industry standards, ensuring long-term growth, and addressing emerging global challenges. Sustainability and social responsibility are integral to the transformational leaders’ ethos in 2024. They know that there is more than just profits, for true growth includes contributions to the environment and society. They make their organizations responsible corporate citizens by practicing sustainable measures and sponsoring good business ethics. As such, stakeholders can trust them, and loyalty is easily elicited. Finally, these leaders have the ability to maneuver uncertainty. They can address economic volatility and shifts within politics and will navigate through public health crises with speed, decisiveness, and emotional intelligence. Their stability factor ensures that their businesses not only survive but thrive during times of adversity. A defining characteristics of these transformational leaders is their ability to develop a vision. They see beyond the immediate horizon, visualize the potential, and design a future for their organizations. Such leaders can visualize their organizations in a fast-changing landscape and, as a result, can realign their strategies with macroeconomical trends, technological pace, and expectations of changing consumers, thus keeping the organization abreast and on the same footing with the times. ‘The Most Transformational Leaders Driving Business Growth in Industry-2024,’ of CIOLook India are the architects for dynamic and sustainable futures for their respective industries. Their unique mix of vision, innovation, and empathy not only drives business growth but also sets benchmarking standards for leadership in the constantly evolving economy of the global sphere. As we look ahead into the years, the influence will undoubtedly continue to shape the trajectory of the industries. Their focus is equally on collaborative and empowering teams. They accept that business growth results from everyone involved, and to encourage an atmosphere where individuals feel appreciated, motivated, and duly aligned with their institution. By focusing on definite communication, purpose-giving missions, and inclusive decision-making, these leaders grooms teams that's resilient as well as innovative. Innovation is another hallmark of their leadership. They live in an ever-increasingly technological society, hence, emphasizing the optimal integration of digital tools, data analytics, and automation into operations as well as experiences for customers. Such individuals will, therefore challenge the status quo, experiment, and hail failure as a part of learning. This way, organizations led by them are not only oriented to change but are instrumental in shaping it. - Gaurav PR Wankhade Managing Editor

6. CONTENTS Profiles 18 Anika Mittal Nurturing A Generation of Young Learners with Cognito Abacus to Shape the Future of India 26 An Elixir Creator I. G. Kadiwala Offering Nature’s Purest Essence via Shafia Food Company to Make You Healthy 32 Rajat Jain Championing Resilience and Adaptability in the IT Landscape Articles 16 22 Seed to Flower How can Managers Cultivate Beginners' Minds in the Organization? Curiosity killed Didn’t Kill the Cat! THow to Heighten the Curiosity Factor among Employees?

7. 08 Krishna Prasad Guiding the Next Generation of AI Pioneers and Innovators by Building Learning Communities COVER STORY

8. FOLLOW US ON www.twitter.com/ciolookindia www.facebook.com/ciolookindia/ LOOK I N D I A www.ciolookindia.com WE ARE ALSO AVAILABLE ON Abhishek Joshi Editor-in-Chief CONTENT CONTACT US ON Managing Editor: Gaurav PR Wankhade Assisting Editor : Prajakta Zurale Email sales@ciolookindia.com For Subscription www.ciolookindia.com DESIGN Visualizer: Sandeep Tikode Art & Design Director : Rahul Shinde Art & Design Editor : Sarita Bhagat Sr. Graphic Designer : Nagaraj Patil Copyright © 2024 CIOLOOK India, All rights reserved. The content and images used in this magazine should not be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior permission from CIOLOOK India. Reprint rights remain solely with CIOLOOK India. SALES Vice President : Swapnali Vasaikar Asst. Vice President : Tejaswini Whaval Sr. Team Leader : Suraj Gadekar ATL : Reetika Sharma TECHNICAL Technical Head : Prachi Mokashi Technical Specialist: Rajeshwari Avhad Technical Consultant : Tanaji Fartade sales@ciolookindia.com Nov, 2024 SME-SMO Research Analyst : Sager Lahigade SEO Lead : Prashant Rathod Cover Price: Rs.300/-

9. The Most Transformational Leaders Driving Business Growth in Industry -2024 Featuring Company Brief Anika Mittal is the Chief Learning Officer at Cognito Abacus, an abacus based advanced cognitive skill enhancement program designed for children between ages six to 13 years. Anika Mittal, Chief Learning Officer Cognito Abacus Private Limited I. G. Kadiwala is the Founder and CEO of Shafia Food Company, a company that sells nutritious foods, including honey. I. G. Kadiwala, Founder and CEO Shafia Food Company Krishna Prasad Nagaraj also known as KP is from Bangalore, India with 25 years of global leadership and team building experience based out of Singapore. Krishna Prasad Nagaraj, CEO and Founder The Skill Bridge A passionate and driven entrepreneur working for over 15 years in the family business, Nimish is an Executive Director at Parekh Integrated Services Private Limited. Parekh Integrated Services Pvt Ltd (PISPL) Nimish Parekh, Executive Director With over ten years of experience, Rajat Jain is a seasoned leader skilled in managing cross-functional teams to successfully deliver outstanding service to clients worldwide. Rajat Jain, Co-founder and CEO Aadi IT Services

10. Cover Story Krishna Prasad Guiding the Next Generation of AI Pioneers and Innovators by Building Learning Communities I hope to help the next generation of AI pioneers and innovators by building communities where people can learn from one another and grow professionally.

11. Krishna Prasad Nagaraj CEO and Founder The Skill Bridge

12. The Most Transformational Leaders Driving Business Growth in Industry-2024 A n ever-advancing artificial intelligence (AI) has taken over the homo sapiens (wise humans) world by storm. Here are the machines with extraordinary computational capabilities now learning to be smart or even smarter than their creators. However, can they be? Can the creation become bigger than the creator? *First and foremost, he has always been committed to innovation. Whether he was working in operations or spearheading AI-driven initiatives, Krishna’s goal has always been to use technology to solve problems in the real world. Innovation has always been his top priority, whether he’s been leading the launch of a SaaS product at M9 Software or promoting the use of artificial intelligence at Sprinklr. Or will it always be the case, which is now, that some of the most influential leaders in AI, who are shaping the current course of technologies, will maintain their dominance? *Empathy: Krishna says it is vital to grasp the require- ments of stakeholders and customers. As someone who has worked in customer success and achieved substantial retention rates with zero escalations, he knows firsthand how important it is to listen to and address each client's individual needs. Despite its immense capability, AI must constantly prioritize human needs and ethical concerns. “Of course, creators will always hold control and domi- nance over their creation,” says Krishna Prasad Nagaraj, the CEO and Founder of The Skill Bridge most influential leaders in the global AI field. You must believe it if Krishna says so because he has emerged as India's leading AI thought leader in recent times. and one of the Also an Author, Krishna has recently launched a book titled, ‘ The Leadership Feed leadership means and how anybody can achieve it. As an AI transformational thought leader himself, Krishna’s USPs stem from a mix of strategic foresight, voice of the customer, and a desire to bring about real change. These factors have contributed to his current position in the following ways: ,’ explaining what true *Thirdly, a dedication to lifelong learning is essential if one wants to keep up with the ever-changing AI field and its potential uses across industries. Leadership is the Power There is another component to success—the leadership approach. According to Krishna, providing team members with the resources they need to succeed and fuelling innovation is his leadership in a nutshell. “As a leader, I think it's important to foster a culture of creativity and trust my staff to make their own judgments,” he insists. On-tune, he ensures his team members are willing to try new things and take chances by creating a space where they feel appreciated and supported. ~Thinking Forward with an Innovation Focus—Krishna anticipates market shifts and matches AI with company goals. As a leader, his ability to see possibilities and implement successful AI solutions has been an advantage. ~Business Transformation using AI—He has managed 1,300 personnel in numerous places and pushed AI in all the products of his companies so he can make difficult changes. These experiences have increased his operational competence and ability to lead teams through substantial changes for efficiency and innovation. ~Continuous Learning and Flexibility—AI is always evolving, says Krishna. Thus, his design thinking, cognitive behavioural coaching, and strategic execution certifications show his dedication to learning. His agility lets him stay up with technology and provide innovative, well-informed AI in business viewpoints. I oversaw a team of 1,300 people on nine different sites, handling customers for AOL and Yahoo! while I was the Senior Manager of Operations at Verizon. Pillars of Success According to Krishna, Success in the artificial intelligence field hinges on three pillars—innovation, empathy, and continual learning—“and these three things form the basis of my guiding philosophy,” he adds.

14. An insatiable hunger for new ideas and cutting-edge tech propelled me into the artificial intelligence field.

15. Mentorship:Leading the Future of Leadership: Krishna tailors his mentoring style to each mentee because he knows that everyone has their own set of skills, limitations, and professional goals. They are able to overcome obsta- cles, improve their abilities, and reach their career objec- tives with his personalized advice. By taking this track, Krishna has been able to mentor a large number of people, enabling them to climb the corporate ladder and make significant contributions to their companies. encourages his mentees to try out new technology as they come out. In addition to improving efficiency, this method is in sync with client needs, which leads to operational excellence and happy customers. Krishna is dedicated to putting strategies into action and fostering collaboration across functional areas to make sure that these breakthroughs help create a future where technology and innovation drive growth. A Novel Mindset Teaming with Talents Furthermore, Krishna believes that artificial intelligence requires innovation, disruption, and a pleasant user experience, prioritizing operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. He balances it by: The workforce is the cornerstone of any successful endeavour. To foster a culture of growth, skill development, and empowerment among his clients, Krishna takes several steps. By placing an emphasis on personalized tactics that speak to the specific requirements of each client, he cultivates an environment that is conducive to learning, development, and empowerment. Before he can create individualized plans for their training and development, Krishna ensures that he fully understands their organiza- tion's objectives and difficulties. Ensuring that staff are prepared to manage the ever-changing technology world is a key focus of these initiatives, which also include upskilling and the use of artificial intelligence and digital tools to improve skills. Finding a balance between efficiency and customer happiness requires understanding the customer's needs and issues. Krishna prioritizes listening to customers and gathering insights to ensure their innovations fulfil their needs. This focus on the consumer ensures that every technical change improves their experience. He likes an iterative approach to AI. This way, customer feedback is incorporated throughout. To avoid sacrificing user happiness for operational efficiency, customers should be involved early and often in solution improvement. In his work with clients, Krishna assists in the development of resilient, adaptive teams capable of driving long-term success for their companies by incorporating opportunities for continuous learning and promoting an innovative attitude. Finding a balance between short-term and long-term goals: While operational efficiency is crucial to a company's long-term success, consumers' urgent needs must never be ignored, says Krishna. He balances strategic, long-term goals with timely client responses. “In this manner, we can meet current client needs without compro- mising future growth.” Conquering Challenges Being an experienced leader with expertise in leading expansive teams across diverse locations, driving growth, enhancing retention, ensuring exceptional customer experience, and fostering product success. Krishna had his share of challenges. Yet, every time, his resilience and ingenuity triumphed over adversity. He oversaw a team of 1,300 people on nine different sites, handling customers for AOL and Yahoo! while he was the Senior Manager of Operations at Verizon. That experience stands out. The difficulty started when their operations were severely interrupted by an abrupt change in company strategy, which caused operational bottlenecks and increased customer escalations, he recalls. He adds that the AI industry is notoriously fast-changing and volatile. Keeping his operations and client relations flexible prepares Krishna for this. Being adaptable means you can swiftly shift direction to keep things operating smoothly and people satisfied. Embracing Evolution Digitalization and technological advancements are crucial aspects of the modern AI ecosystem, which Krishna shares and embraces by incorporating AI-driven solutions into all areas of operations -from the automation of mundane chores to the use of data analytics for well-informed decision-making. To make sure they're always ahead of the curve, he promotes a culture of constant innovation and In order to avoid a decrease in service quality and client happiness, prompt action was necessary. Krishna utilized

16. The Origin of Victory two-pronged strategy: first, he concentrated on streamlining operations by finding inefficiencies using data analytics. “We drastically cut down on turnaround times by automat- ing common operations and optimizing workflows with AI- driven solutions.” When asked how he can manage so much in such a competent way, Krishna says that it is all thanks to his journey and motivation to enter the then-nascent niche of AI. “An insatiable hunger for new ideas and cutting-edge tech propelled me into the artificial intelligence field.” His experience in product management, supply chain opera- tions, and customer success prepared him well for a career in artificial intelligence. Krishna Co-foundedM9 Software & Services and served as its director of operations until they launched their cloud-based software as a service product. That was the turning point in his career. His second priority was improving communication and team spirit. He had regular check-ins to offer support and solicit input, making sure that everyone felt heard and appreciated because he understood the strain the team was under. Krishna elaborates, “We restored operational stability by re-aligning teams with the new strategy and giving them the autonomy and resources they needed to accomplish their responsibilities effectively.”

17. Use Innovation for a Reason—The capacity to innovate is crucial to your success, and innovation should have a purpose. Find problems in the real world and create AI solutions to solve them. He adds: One of your most valuable assets is your crew. Encourage a spirit of teamwork, creativity, and persever- ance. Give your team members the freedom, responsibility, and resources they need to succeed, and watch them flourish. The strength and motivation of your squad will determine how far you go. By promoting efforts that stress sustainable growth, ethical AI practices, and widespread AI use across industries, I aim to further establish my support and advocacy for AI innovation by 2024. Emphasize Ethical AI – Keep in mind the significance of AI ethics while you construct your company. Your solutions should be open, equitable, and crafted to have a construc- tive influence on society. In the end, you'll stand out from the competition if you build trust through ethical AI techniques. Krishna was compelled to investigate AI's revolutionary possibilities after this event and his subsequent positions leading AI-based initiatives at Yahoo and Sprinklr. Fostering a Tech-Transformed Tomorrow Looking ahead, Krishna divulges, “By promoting efforts that stress sustainable growth, ethical AI practices, and widespread AI use across industries, I aim to further establish my support and advocacy for AI innovation by 2024.” The ambition to use AI to address practical issues and propel company expansion was the impetus for joining this ever-changing environment, says Krishna, the alumni of St. Joseph’s College of Commerce, Bangalore. He felt compelled to go further into AI because of the industry- changing possibilities it offers and the speed with which it is developing. “I have had the privilege of leading and influencing the adoption of AI across multiple enterprises throughout the years, and I have contributed to the creation of creative solutions that have had a direct impact on business outcomes,” he adds. *Expanding AI's Use Across Sectors—He intends to take the lead in paving the way for AI integration in historically neglected areas like education, healthcare, and agriculture. His goal is to help companies improve their efficiency, inclusivity, and productivity by creating and advocating for scalable AI solutions specific to these industries' needs. “Second, we must fight for ethical AI,” he adds. He aims to spearhead India's ethical AI movement in 2024, fighting for open, equitable, and responsible AI research and development. Advising Aspirants Today, when he looks back with satisfaction, it gives him the courage to envision the future and help others to course their success path. Krishna believes that businesses are a way for Indian industry to pace up its economic potential and capacity. Thus, he advises other budding entrepreneurs who aspire to venture into the AI space with encouraging words. Thirdly, fostering the talent of the AI industry's upcoming generation – Mentoring, teaching, and community service are all parts of Krishna’s plan to help shape the AI workforce of the future. He concludes, “I hope to help the next generation of AI pioneers and innovators by building communities where people can learn from one another and grow professionally.” Collaborations with schools, AI incubators, and tech groups will be necessary to promote a mindset of lifelong learning and new ideas. Innovation, customer-centricity, and, most importantly, building and selling products that are super-easy to adopt should be the focal points of each ambitious AI entrepre- neur's efforts.

18. How can Managers Cultivate Beginners' Minds in the Organization? I How Managers Can Encourage a Beginner's Mind? n the dynamically changing business environment, innovativeness and flexibility assume critical importance in the accomplishment of any organisation. One of the best ways that managers can actually induce creative energy and flourish in teams is by encouraging what is referred to as a ‘beginner's mind.’ The term beginner's mind or ‘shoshin’ originates from Zen philosophy and refers to an attitude of approaching things from open, eager, non-judgmental eyes, as if seeing them for the first time. For managers, this would mean instilling this kind of mindset among the employees towards creating more collaborative problem solvers and more dynamic organizational cultures. 1. Cultivate Curiosity : Curiosities should be promoted by an environment and should be designed by managers. Managers must abolish punishing an employee for asking questions so labelled basic. Instead, they must initiate employees in inquiry as well as exploration. Questions, however apparently simple or simple, should never be discouraged. Periodic input or comments from all staff members must be solicited for further openness. 2. Leading with a Beginner's Mind: Why Beginner's Mind Really Matters in the Workplace? Leaders with a beginner's mindset are a positive example for all those around them. When managers clearly show others that they do not have an answer, or are enthusiastic about having to learn something new, they get their team members to act similarly. A growth mindset, or belief in the reality that skills and intelligence can be developed, makes them more accepting of ambiguity and experimentation. A beginner's mind liberates employees from habitual ways of thinking. Employees will be challenged to question assumptions; look at things in a new way; and accept uncertainty-things all critical for the functioning of struggling with complex problems or responding to change. This cannot be done, however, without a beginner's mindset. Employees will just relax back into their old ways, using the same conventional methods, refusing to stray from familiar thought patterns, and dodging new ideas-the very things that will prevent growth and innovation. 3. Allow Failure-Safe Spaces: Fears of failure often prevent creative thoughts and risk- taking. Managers can encourage the mindset of the (16) Nov, 2024 www.ciolookindia.com

19. Seed to Flower beginner by creating a culture in which mistakes are considered learning experiences rather than failures. Celebrate small achievements and constructive analysis of what went wrong if there was a failure, so employees may come closer to work with an open, exploratory attitude. 4. Continued Learning: During times of continuous training, mentorship programs, and cross-department collaboration, these have employees exposed to new ideas and skills. This keeps training as an ongoing process rather than an event and keeps one's teams engaged and open to fresh perspectives on the job. Conclusion It is only by being a beginner that one can fully realize what a manager can achieve with a team. Curiosity growth mindset, safe failure space, and continuous learning, of which similarities are virtually impossible to separate, on the way to an innovative and adaptive organization can be likened to a flower blossoming from its seed. Let development move forward for a real-thriving workplace. (17) Nov, 2024 www.ciolookindia.com

20. By nurturing a genera?on of young learners who are confident, crea?ve, and capable, we can help shape the future of our na?on. Anika Mi?al Chief Learning Officer Cognito Abacus Private Limited (18) Nov, 2024 www.ciolookindia.com

21. The Most Transforma?onal Leaders Driving Business Growth in Industry-2024 Anika Mittal Nurturing a Genera?on of Young Learners with Cognito Abacus to Shape India's Future T he human brain is more complex than a com- puter—it functions as a digital university, where neural learning systems enable the mind’s virtual classrooms to be accessed anywhere, anytime. While some claim that artificial intelligence (AI) will surpass human intelligence, this comparison is flawed. A child, unlike AI, learns quickly and naturally through simple interactions with their environment—without the need for vast datasets processed through deep learning models. Technology: Leveraging technology to enhance operational efficiency and responsiveness. Amity: Fostering trustworthy relationships among students, teachers, parents, franchisees, and the organization. Activity: Regularly hosting competitions and public demonstrations to provide students with real-world exposure. Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ A Lifelong Learning Journey At compassionate Chief Learning Officers like Anika Mittal, children acquire holistic learning experiences. While AI can mimic creativity by generating text, images, videos, and music from existing patterns, children create original inventions, innovations, and breakthroughs. Cognito Abacus Private Limited, under the guidance of Anika’s passion for education and human potential has shaped her career. After becoming a mother, her drive to provide the best for her child deepened her commitment to holistic learning. As she began teaching her son Abacus, a subject she was already passionate about, she realized firsthand the challenges of skill development in today’s ever-evolving education system. Fostering Original Thought Leaders Anika explains, “Launched in 2020, our approach centers on becoming the leading franchisor for abacus centers by offering top-quality course material, a progressive curriculum, comprehensive training, innovative practice tools, and responsive, compassionate franchising services.” This experience ignited her interest in innovation in education, and led her to become the Chief Learning Officer at Cognito Abacus. Her vision is to cultivate a culture of continuous learning and adaptation within the organization and its students. Embracing Change Cognito Abacus is backed by a team of professionals with over 18 years of experience in abacus education. Anika leads with guidance from notable experts in the education field, ensuring that the curriculum evolves in step with global advancements. Anika understands that the marketing landscape and the world of education are constantly evolving. "To stay ahead, we are committed to continuous learning, innovation, and flexibility," she explains. Cognito Abacus focuses on four key pillars to become the preferred choice for students and parents alike: Content Development: Anika and her team prioritize staying aligned with the latest educational trends, updated curricula, and evolving consumer behavior. This helps them remain relevant and responsive to industry shifts. Ÿ Pedagogy: Delivering the best course structure, materials, rigorous training standards, and innovative learning tools to all students. Ÿ (19) Nov, 2024 www.ciolookindia.com

22. Building a Positive Work Culture: Anika is committed to creating an inclusive, collaborative work environment where individual and group achievements are cele- brated. A happy, motivated team is key to long-term success. Ÿ Overcoming Obstacles Cognito Abacus faced significant challenges during the early days of the pandemic. As a fledgling startup, they had to adapt quickly to online education. Through trial and error, they mastered online teaching tools and extended their reach across borders, delivering quality education to students worldwide. Continuous Learning Culture: They promote lifelong learning among educators and franchisees through regular training workshops and refresher courses. This ensures the team remains equipped with the latest knowledge and skills, driving innovation in their offerings. Customer-Centric Approach: Anika emphasizes the importance of regularly gathering feedback from both students and parents. This allows the organization to tailor its services and marketing strategies, ensuring alignment with evolving preferences. Innovative Marketing Strategies: Cognito Abacus hosts events such as competitions and certification exams, offering students real-world exposure while showcasing the program's benefits to potential clients. Strategic Collaborations: Partnerships with schools, education professionals, and community organizations help Cognito Abacus expand its reach and stay con- nected with new trends and ideas in education. Ÿ Reflecting on this journey, Anika shares, “Our swift transition to online learning caught the attention of Microsoft, who featured us in a cover story on their website. We were also invited to speak at their Town Hall, marking a pivotal moment in our growth.” Ÿ Nurturing the Next Generation of Global Citizens Ÿ Anika envisions Cognito Abacus as a trailblazer in educa- tion, empowering young minds with cognitive skills that go beyond academics. “We aim to scale our impact across India while staying true to our core values of innovation, inclusivity, and excellence.” Ÿ Key components of Cognito Abacus’s future vision include: An Empowering Leader Expanding Reach and Accessibility: By leveraging technology and forming strategic partnerships, they aim to make their programs accessible to students across India, particularly in underserved areas. Building a Strong Network of Educators: Growing a network of well-trained educators and franchisees is essential to carrying forward Cognito Abacus’s vision. Fostering Cognitive and Life Skills: Beyond academics, the focus is on equipping students with life skills like problem-solving, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence, preparing them for the complexities of the modern world. Contributing to National Development: Anika believes Cognito Abacus can play a significant role in India’s journey toward becoming a global leader in education and innovation, by nurturing a generation of confident, creative, and capable young learners. Ÿ Anika’s leadership is rooted in empathy, collaboration, and support. She believes in fostering an environment where each team member feels valued and empowered to contribute. Her leadership style includes: Ÿ Empathy and Open Communication: Anika emphasizes understanding her team’s perspectives, challenges, and motivations, fostering a culture of trust and transparency. Empowerment through Autonomy: She encourages her team to take ownership of their work, allowing them the autonomy to make decisions while offering guidance when needed. This approach fuels creativity and innovation. Continuous Development: Anika advocates for continu- ous learning, encouraging her team and franchisees to pursue training opportunities. This investment in growth strengthens both individuals and the organization. Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ (20) Nov, 2024 www.ciolookindia.com

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24. Curiosity killed Didn’t Kill the Cat!

25. How to Heighten the Curiosity Factor among Employees? (23) Nov, 2024 www.ciolookindia.com

26. I 4. Foster Cross-Department Collaboration nnovations are the outcomes of curiosity. Somewhere, at some time, someone had a curiosity to understand and know something, which has led to the emergence of new things. Being curious by nature, human beings are the main source of creations, other than mighty and beautiful natural magics. The business industry is one of such amazing creations of mankind and leading it requires a mastermind. For businesses to achieve success, they need to innovate from time to time. And for that, they need to embed ounces of curiosity among their employees for great ideas. This article explores the ways to heighten the factor of curiosity among employees. Curiosity breeds where the views of different thinkers converge. Interdepartmental collaboration is a great way to expose people to innovation and competition. These teams from different backgrounds with varied levels of expertise are not just able to find creative solutions to problems but do so as they motivate each other to think out of the box. Frequent brainstorming meetings or workshops, even merely informal lunch convening, can build connections by instilling curiosity in other parts of the organization. 5. Celebrate Curiosity-Driven Innovation 1. Safe Environment of Curiosity Celebrating curiosity-driven achievements is a powerful motivator. When the employees are recognized for how they think, how creatively they can go about problem- solving, and, above all, how willing they are to experiment, that will reinforce the value of curiosity in an organization. Recognition can happen through many means: shout-outs at meetings, innovation awards, or even small incentives for the most creative ideas. One of the greatest barriers to workplace curiosity is fear of failure, fear of appearing uninformed, and fear of making mistakes. This can only be overcome by creating a workplace culture where nothing has a penalty attached to it, whether it's curiosity, a query that's raised, something new that is tried or a rule that is broken. This judgment-free environment will always encourage people to explore and take the plunge into the unknown because openness is available for discovery. Then, why it killed the cat? - The Conclusion 2. Create a Culture of Continual Growth and Development Curiosity is a powerful, untapped resource that can transform an organization. By creating an environment in which learning, experimentation, and cross-pollination of ideas thrive, managers can foster a curiosity for work and encourage this perspective. As curiosity is encouraged, so does engagement, productivity, innovation and agility in the workplace. After all, as the saying goes, ‘Curiosity didn't kill the cat—it made it smarter and resourceful,’ and so it might make an organization smarter and more resourceful. Curiosity grows when employees believe they are constantly learning. Managers can foster that curiosity by providing regular learning options-for example, formal training, mentorship programs, or access to new resources. Leaders allow their workers to look at various areas of interest while, at the same time, they acquire new skills. This sets a fire for curiosity while making employees see how their roles feed into a much larger organization. This inspiration towards growth and development will then fuel the desire to learn and keep asking questions. 3. Lead by Example Curious leaders establish an expectation for their team members in this respect. They need to be searching for new ideas, asking helpful questions, and truly interested in learning from each other. When employees observe their leaders embracing the curiosity mindset and are open to exploring unknown territory, they are more likely to emulate them. Curious modelling dissolves many of the hierarchical barriers that facilitate communication and disseminate knowledge between people. (24) Nov, 2024 www.ciolookindia.com

28. I. G. The Most Transformational Leaders Driving Business Growth in Industry-2024. An Elixir Creator – Offering Nature’s Purest Essence via Sha?ia Kadiwala Food Company to Make You Healthy E the norm in the present and future. However, artificial living and foods cannot be alternatives to natural and healthy ones. It is the most important learning or re-learning we had after the post-pandemic wake-up call. veryone agrees that health is the real wealth. To become healthy or to regain health, the only way is to return to nature. Artificial intelligence might be Committed to purity since 2019, Shafia India sources its honey exclusively from the pristine landscapes of Punjab, Haryana, Bihar, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, and Rajasthan. “With each golden drop, you can experience the untouched beauty and rich flavours of nature, preserved just for you,” he says. Reflecting back on his inspirations behind venturing into F&B niche, Mr Kadiwala says that starting up a business needs research, collaboration, and most importantly pursuit of excellence. He shares, “As a researcher we came to know that people are moving to healthy lifestyles now and they need a pure and pious but deliciousness in their foods.” Though, the most challenging thing in today’s hyper-fast era is getting natural, unadulterated, toxic, and chemical- free, fresh foods, even basic ones like honey. Regarded as the elixir for the human body and health, honey has been the foundational ingredient of a healthy Indian diet since time immemorial. A Principled Approach This is why, when I. G. Kadiwala established Shafia Food Company in 2019, the Founder and CEO kept the company's motto simple: ‘Nurturing nature’s essence.’ Founded on the principles of health, ecology, fairness, and care, says Mr Kadiwala, and led by a dedicated team committed to providing nutritious foods worldwide, Shafia India has been revolutionizing the way people experience honey by offering a tantalizing range of floral honey products. So there he thought of opening a business called ‘honey’. “And we don't only provide 'honey' in jars. We provide originality, taste, and health in the same pack,” says Mr Kadiwala, adding that the foundation of business success lies in several key principles: trust in oneself, collaboration with the team, thorough research, seeking expert advice, unwavering commitment to work, and, most importantly, maintaining purity and authenticity in all endeavours. These elements collectively form the bedrock of a thriving business environment where individuals and teams can flourish. Delivering Delightful Nature’s Bounty to You “We are committed to providing our customers with the highest quality honey with delightful flowers that ignite the taste buds,” insists Mr Kadiwala. “Where nature’s purest essence meets unrivalled quality. Embark on a journey with us as we continue our legacy of delivering the finest honey straight from the heart of India,” he adds. Trust in oneself is paramount for any entrepreneur or business leader. It fosters confidence and decisiveness, enabling individuals to navigate challenges and seize opportunities. When leaders believe in their vision and capabilities, they inspire their teams to do the same. (26) Nov, 2024 www.ciolookindia.com

29. Founder and CEO Sha?ia Food Company I. G. Kadiwala

30. This self-assuredness creates a positive feedback loop, where confidence breeds motivation and drives collective success. with industry experts and mentors can provide invaluable insights and guidance, helping leaders avoid common pitfalls and make informed choices. This willingness to seek external perspectives demonstrates humility and a commitment to growth, which can significantly enhance a company's strategic direction. Collaboration with the team is equally essential. In today’s complex business landscape, no one person can possess all the answers or skills required to succeed. “By fostering a collaborative environment, we leverage the diverse strengths and perspectives of our team members.” This synergy not only enhances problem-solving capabilities but also cultivates a sense of belonging and shared purpose, which is vital for employee engagement and retention. Ensuring Excellence in Every Ounce “We also believe that working commitments are crucial for translating vision into reality,” states Mr Kadiwala. A strong work ethic and dedication to achieving goals instil a culture of accountability and perseverance within the organization. When leaders exemplify commitment, it sets a standard for the entire team, fostering an environment where everyone is motivated to contribute their best efforts toward shared objectives. Research plays a critical role in informed decision-making, says Mr Kadiwala. In an era where market dynamics can shift rapidly, staying ahead requires a commitment to continuous learning and adaptation. “By investing time and resources into research, we identify emerging trends, understand customer needs, and anticipate potential challenges,” he adds. This proactive approach positions Shafia India to make strategic decisions that align with its long-term goals. “Also, being pure and organic in business practices resonates deeply with our customers and stakeholders alike.” Authenticity builds trust and loyalty as consumers increasingly seek brands that align with their values. “By prioritizing ethical practices and genuine interactions, we cultivate lasting relationships with our clients, ultimately driving sustainable success,” emphasizes Mr Kadiwala. He further believes that seeking expert advice is another cornerstone of successful business practices. Engaging (28) Nov, 2024 www.ciolookindia.com

31. With a strong presence in 1000+ local stores. India, including Gujarat, The Success Testament Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh, Sha?ia Food This sustainable success can be seen through the awards and accolades that Shafia India has been honoured with: Company distributes honey to • Excellence in Packaging Design by Hospisource 2023. Most Innovative Business of the Year by Brands Council Ratings 2022. Best Emerging Brand Award at Khadhya Khurak Gandhinagar 2022. • • feedback, performance review, etc. All these mini factors play a huge role in making your business successful. Enamoured, Mr Kadiwala says in gratitude, “I'm highly honoured and privileged that people are trusting us and loving our brand.” This is because of innovative solutions, agile methodology, sustainability focus, and a strong network. All in all, it works together. As a leading startup, Mr Kadiwala says there have always been challenges. “One significant challenge we faced during the early stages of this startup was introducing a new business offering numerous health benefits and convincing customers about its purification and health advantages. It wasn't easy to establish ourselves in the market. However, through God's grace and teamwork, we persevered and achieved our goals.” With leadership comes responsibility, and there are key principles that Mr Kadiwala believes are vital for positive outcomes: empowerment and trust, communication, feedback, vision, and work-life balance. All these play major roles in making a business successful, like a skyscraper. Furthermore, he says the startup ecosystem in India is full of potential. There are lots of challenges you have to face without failing and the commitment to giving your best and pure honey. Shafia India never compromises on identifying the real problem, building a strong team, and Embracing agility. Focusing on customer feedback has made Shafia India a successful business. “We keep in mind that ideas and teamwork will do best when they come together. And that's what Shafia India does.” Inculcating Techno-Logic The essence of a startup lies in innovation, disruptions, and enhancing the end-user experience. According to Mr Kadiwala, striking a balance between operational efficiency and customer satisfaction is crucial, especially in this innovative world. Technology integration and cross- functional collaboration allow teams to work together for the best development. The Shafia India’s Global Presence Today, with a strong presence in India, including Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh, Shafia Food Company distributes honey to 1000+ local stores. “Our production capacity meets demand, and we also export honey to Qatar, Bhutan, Canada, and England, thus further strengthening our robust global footprint,” says Mr Kadiwala. He furthers, “Integrating digitalization and technological advancements into our core functioning is essential for staying competitive in today's startup ecosystem. We work with digital transformation strategy, collaboration tools, sustainability practices, and, importantly, continuous learning and development.” Looking ahead, he shares their plans: “We keep realistic goals, and when it's Shafia India, diversity and inclusion are at the top of the list. We create initiatives aimed at fostering inclusivity within the startup ecosystem.” Building a strong community of entrepreneurs and collaborative projects encourages peer-to-peer learning and focus. A Trailblazing Team He also believes that the workforce is the cornerstone of their success. Thus, a culture of growth and skill development is essential for business success and customer satisfaction. If your customer is satisfied with your work and brand, kudos!!! It's your win. Continued learning opportunities, mentorship, career development, regular For more information, please call +91 9979550421 or email: imdadali@shafiaindia.com. (29) Nov, 2024 www.ciolookindia.com

32. Success is the progressive realization of a worthy goal or ideal. - Earl Nightingale

34. Championing Resilience and Adaptability in the IT Landscape O Rajat Jain, the Co-founder and CEO of recognized the potential of digitalization and made it his mission to fast-forward the industry into a future brimming with innovation. Leading with Innovation, Empathy, and a Legacy of Impact nce upon a time, in the bustling world of technology, where change was the only constant, a visionary leader emerged to accelerate progress. Aadi IT Services , Rajat began his journey into the IT ecosystem driven by a deep curiosity for technology and a passion for solving real- world problems. From a young age, he was captivated by how technology could streamline tasks, enhance efficiency, and unlock new possibilities. His fascination grew as he witnessed IT’s transformative power in improving productivity across industries. Drawn by the dynamic, ever- evolving nature of the field, he set out to be part of an industry where continuous innovation shapes solutions that make a meaningful impact on people’s lives. Adhering to this mission, currently Aadi IT Services is qualified under three standards, including • ISO 9001:2015: Quality Management. • ISO/IEC 27001:2022: Information Security Management, and • CMMI Maturity Level 3: Process Improvement. With a keen eye for talent, Rajat built a diverse team that brought unique skills and perspectives to the table. He fostered an environment where collaboration thrived, ensuring that every voice was heard. As they tackled challenges together, the team's enthusiasm and creativity blossomed, propelling their projects to new heights. At Aadi IT Services, our vision has always been to create an organization that not only excels in delivering cutting-edge IT solutions but also fosters long-term relationships by deeply understanding client needs. His relentless pursuit of excellence and proactive communication transformed challenges into opportunities, ultimately leading to successful outcomes that delighted clients and sparked joy in his heart. In a world where technology continues to evolve, he remains a driving force, shaping a brighter, more connected future for all. Nov, 2024 (32) www.ciolookindia.com

35. Rajat Jain Co-founder and CEO Aadi IT Services (33) Nov, 2024 www.ciolookindia.com

36. The Most Transformational Leaders Driving Business Growth in Industry-2024 This desire to innovate and realization of IT’s potential as a business enabler led Rajat to establish Aadi IT Services. His vision was to create an organization that excels in delivering cutting-edge IT solutions and fosters long-term relationships by deeply understanding client needs. For him, the journey has been fueled by a passion for lifelong learning and the fulfilment that comes from seeing the tangible impact his team’s work has on businesses. At the heart of his leadership philosophy lies the belief in value creation and innovation through empathy. His approach emphasizes understanding client challenges thoroughly and developing customized solutions that empower businesses to achieve their goals. Adaptability has been a cornerstone of Aadi IT Services, ensuring the company remains ahead of industry trends and embraces emerging technologies to drive growth and transformation. Rajat is equally committed to empowering his team, fostering a culture of trust, and encouraging innovation through calculated risk-taking. He believes that the success of his people directly contributes to the success of the organization. Integrity and trust are the foundation of every relationship he nurtures—whether with clients, partners, or employees. For him, true success lies not only in financial achievements but also in the legacy of trust, respect, and positive impact that Aadi IT Services continues to build. IT Services as a leader in digital transformation, helping clients drive growth and embrace the future. Leading Aadi IT Services with Innovation Rajat’s approach to leadership revolves around empowerment, collaboration, and trust. For him, great leadership is not about dictating but about fostering an environment where people feel valued and inspired to take ownership of their work. He encourages open communication and ensures every team member’s voice is heard, creating a culture where innovation thrives. Rajat believes that giving individuals the freedom to experiment and space to grow drives productivity and sparks creativity. Rajat has led the company to distinguish itself in the industry by focusing on a few key Unique Selling Propositions (USPs). At the core of Aadi’s philosophy is a client-centric approach—the belief that one-size-fits-all solutions don’t work. Instead, the company tailors its services to meet the specific needs of each client, ensuring that technology solutions align with their business goals. This personalized approach has allowed Aadi IT Services to build long-term relationships based on trust, mutual growth, and measurable results. Building a diverse and complementary team is also a priority for him. He emphasizes the importance of bringing together talents with varied backgrounds, skills, and perspectives, knowing that such diversity fosters innovation. Under his leadership, Aadi IT Services is committed to continuous learning and professional growth, providing employees with opportunities to enhance their skills and unlock their potential. His belief in investing in people has cultivated a passionate, cohesive team that works toward shared goals with purpose and enthusiasm. Another cornerstone of Aadi IT Services’ success is its focus on innovation and adaptability. In an ever-changing IT landscape, Rajat has ensured the company stays ahead by embracing emerging technologies such as cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and data analytics. By integrating these cutting-edge solutions, Aadi empowers clients to remain competitive, achieve operational excellence, and navigate change effectively. This combination of technical expertise and a deep understanding of business challenges has positioned Aadi Nov, 2024 (34) www.ciolookindia.com

37. Driving Digital Transformation and Innovation Navigating Challenges and Inspiring Innovation Rajat has built the company around a clear vision: achieving future transformation through a balance between operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. Under his leadership, Aadi IT Services has prioritized process optimization and technological innovation, ensuring that services are delivered swiftly and precisely. By integrating automation, agile methodologies, and efficient project management into internal operations, the company maintains high standards of efficiency while remaining flexible to evolving client needs. One of the most defining moments for Aadi IT Services came during the early days of the pandemic. The sudden shift to remote work posed significant challenges not only for the company’s internal operations but also for its clients, many of whom faced major disruptions. Rajat saw this crisis as an opportunity to demonstrate the company’s resilience, adaptability, and ingenuity. In response to the unprecedented situation, he led the team in quickly pivoting operations. Aadi IT Services developed and implemented cloud-based solutions that enabled clients to transition seamlessly to remote work, ensuring business continuity. Simultaneously, the company adapted its workflows to maintain efficiency while working remotely. The team’s ability to stay focused, collaborative, and innovative under pressure stood out, as they not only guided clients through the turbulence but also enhanced operational capabilities by delivering more flexible and scalable solutions. This experience reinforced the strength of the company’s commitment to adding value, even in the most challenging circumstances. He believes that customer satisfaction is equally critical to long-term success. Aadi IT Services places a strong emphasis on close collaboration with clients throughout every project. The company goes beyond meeting expectations by providing tailored, user-friendly, and scalable solutions. With a focus on proactive communication and regular feedback loops, Rajat ensures that any challenges are addressed promptly and that client needs are seamlessly integrated into the final delivery. This approach enables Aadi IT Services to not only achieve transformational results but also ensure that clients are satisfied with both the process and the outcome. For aspiring entrepreneurs venturing into the IT space, Rajat offers some practical advice. First, he emphasizes the importance of solving real problems. While the IT industry presents endless possibilities, he believes success comes from identifying specific pain points businesses face and creating solutions that offer tangible value. Rather than chasing trends, entrepreneurs should find a niche that aligns with their expertise and passion, focusing on differentiated outcomes that set them apart in a competitive landscape. Embracing digitalization and technological advancements as key drivers of growth, Aadi IT Services continuously integrates the latest technologies—such as cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and big data analytics—into its operations. These innovations enhance the company’s agility and efficiency while enabling it to deliver cutting-edge solutions. As a trusted technology partner to leading companies in the automobile and electronics industries, Aadi IT Services empowers its clients to stay competitive in a rapidly changing ecosystem. He also underscores the significance of adaptability, continuous learning, and networking. With the ever- evolving nature of the IT industry, he encourages a mindset of curiosity, urging entrepreneurs to stay updated on new technologies and disruptions. Being ready to pivot when needed is essential. He also highlights the importance of building a strong, diverse team that complements one’s own skills and fosters collaboration. Networking with industry peers, clients, and potential partners is critical, as it opens doors to new opportunities and valuable insights. Rajat’s vision is centred on building future-ready, scalable, and flexible solutions that promote innovation. The company works closely with businesses to align technological offerings with long-term goals, helping clients navigate the complexities of the digital era. From developing robust IT infrastructures to automating workflows and leveraging data for actionable insights, Aadi IT Services plays a pivotal role in driving digital transformation. In this way, Rajat ensures that Aadi IT Services is not only adopting digitalization but actively shaping a forward-thinking, tech-driven future. For Rajat, taking calculated risks and establishing trust through long-term value creation are equally essential. With the right mindset, collaborative spirit, and a relentless focus on innovation, he believes entrepreneurs can carve out their place in this dynamic and fast-moving industry. (35) Nov, 2024 www.ciolookindia.com

39. Leadership indispensable to each other. learning and are

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