Aryan Maniyar is a co-founder of MakemyHome offering a turnkey solution for retail stores and homes, streamlining execution without any complications. His previous startups, Furniar and AGAAva may have faced setbacks but provided invaluable lessons in building a profitable business. As an exchange student at EADA from 2019 to 2020, pursuing the Master in International Management, Aryan talks about gaining crucial insights and experiences that continue to shape his entrepreneurial journey.
You wear multiple hats as a Co-Founder of MakemyHome, Agaava, along with Founder and CEO of FurniAR. What challenges have you faced as an Entrepreneur and how have they contributed to refining your entrepreneurial skills?
Navigating the entrepreneurial landscape in a burgeoning market like India, particularly from a smaller city, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. Juggling roles as a Co-Founder of MakemyHome, Agaava, and the Founder and CEO of FurniAR has been a dynamic journey.
Initially, establishing connections proved to be a hurdle, especially in the aftermath of Agaava, a fashion-led marketplace driven by influencers, which faced setbacks. However, this setback became a stepping stone for growth. The experience prompted a shift in approach, leading to the creation of MakemyHome. Through engaging with various industry stakeholders, I honed my networking skills and learned valuable lessons on scaling a business from ground zero. The journey has been instrumental in refining my entrepreneurial skills, emphasizing adaptability and resilience in the face of challenges.
How did the cultural and academic environment in Barcelona contribute to your personal and professional development? Did it inspire any specific business ideas or approaches?
The immersive learning environment at Eada provided valuable insights. Building friendships with individuals from diverse countries enhanced my understanding of collaborating within culturally distinct teams. This experience directly translated into my startup, where a team composed of individuals from various backgrounds contributed to shaping our workplace culture.
In what ways did the small class size and diverse backgrounds of your classmates affect your learning experience?
Engaging in collaborative case study discussions within our power group fostered innovative thinking. Analyzing and deliberating on these cases with the entire class introduced diverse perspectives and solutions to similar problems, becoming a key takeaway from the experience.
How have these global connections impacted your professional network and career opportunities?
Having friends scattered across the globe gives us a distinct advantage when considering business expansion. It not only grants us a deeper understanding of various markets but also ensures that we have trustworthy individuals we can rely on.
How did the leadership development program at the Residential Training campus in Collbató shape your leadership skills and approach to real-world challenges?
The program enhanced our negotiation skills, and engaging in various activities with the group provided a better grasp of team management and learning from one another.
Soft skills play a crucial role in entrepreneurship. How do you prioritize and leverage soft skills in your leadership roles at MakemyHome, Agaava, and FurniAR?
Soft skills are pivotal in entrepreneurship as they foster effective communication, collaboration, and adaptability. In my leadership roles at MakemyHome, Agaava, and FurniAR, I prioritize these skills by emphasizing open communication, fostering a collaborative work environment, and adapting strategies based on the dynamic nature of the business landscape. Leveraging soft skills enables me to navigate challenges, build strong teams, and drive the success of each venture.
What advice would you give to students considering studying abroad, especially at EADA Business School?
For students considering studying at EADA Business School, my advice is to embrace cultural diversity, actively participate in practical learning experiences, and network extensively with peers and professionals. Take advantage of EADA’s unique location in Barcelona, exploring the city and its vibrant lifestyle. Strive for a balance between academics and personal growth, ensuring a holistic and fulfilling experience while abroad.
