YESummit Session III emphasizes that core values are essential for sustainable business growth. Entrepreneurs are encouraged to lead with purpose, stay true to their values, and adapt to change while keeping their vision in focus. The session offers guidance on building long-term success through patience, resilience, and meaningful impact. Soumyashree Mohanty summarizes the key insights. The session was moderated by Mr. M N Sanyal (CEO of YouthAid Foundation) and Dr. V Harshitha Moulya (Assistant Professor at CHRIST University’s Kengeri Campus)
Prof. Michael Oyenuga (Assistant Dean, International Relations, Woxsen University, Telangana) emphasizes that leaders must embody core values themselves and ensure these values are internalized by their team members. Mr. Raj Reddy (Chairman, Metamorphyst) highlights the importance of staying clear about the purpose behind one’s venture and resisting short-term temptations. Dr. Saji Varghese (Associate Professor, Department of English and Cultural Studies, CHRIST University, Bangalore) encourages grassroots entrepreneurs to focus on showcasing the social impact of their work rather than competing on price. Mr. Sahil Suman (Lead, Communications, Telangana State Innovation Cell, ITE&C Department, Government of Telangana) urges mentors to understand and respect the value systems of grassroots entrepreneurs.
The Power of Core Values
This session provides critical insights into how entrepreneurs can expand their ventures without compromising foundational principles. The central message is clear: values form the identity of an organization. They guide decision-making, shape behavior, and define what the business stands for. These values must be embedded from the very inception of the enterprise. Far from being abstract ideals, they serve as strategic anchors—building trust, shaping culture, and ensuring long-term sustainability.
Embedding Values in Leadership and Teams
The session outlines several key strategies for preserving values during growth. First, values must be demonstrated by leadership. They should be instilled from the top, with leaders exemplifying the beliefs and conduct they expect across the organization. If leaders do not model these values, it becomes challenging for teams to uphold them. Second, recruitment must prioritize alignment with organizational values. Hiring individuals who resonate with the mission and culture enhances cohesion and performance. Third, open and consistent internal communication is essential. A shared understanding of the organization’s vision, mission, and values fosters collective purpose and unity.
Evolving with Technology While Staying Rooted
Adaptability is identified as a crucial factor in scaling effectively. In an age of rapid technological advancement, entrepreneurs must leverage technology and data to streamline operations and expand their reach. However, innovation must never come at the cost of the organization’s core values and mission. Periodic reflection is necessary—organizations benefit from assessing their journey and setting future goals over a 5–10 year horizon. This strategic foresight supports intentional growth aligned with their foundational principles.
Understanding the Grassroots Context
The session places special emphasis on the experience of grassroots entrepreneurs. Their values are often shaped by lived realities and community-specific challenges. Support for such entrepreneurs must begin with a deep understanding of their social and cultural context. Mentors are urged to respect these value systems and recognize that effective solutions must be rooted in local needs. Empathy and contextual awareness become essential to fostering sustainable and inclusive growth.
Pricing with Purpose and Storytelling
A critical aspect of growth lies in communicating the unique value of a product or service. Pricing should reflect the authenticity, labour, and cultural significance embedded in the offering. Entrepreneurs are encouraged to go beyond transactional selling and embrace storytelling. Narratives about impact, tradition, or transformation not only strengthen brand identity but also deepen consumer connection and loyalty.
Passion and Perseverance Matter
Entrepreneurial success is ultimately driven by passion and purpose. While financial results are important, they should not overshadow the deeper mission of solving real-world challenges. The session emphasizes perseverance as a core quality. Staying grounded in values and resisting short-term gains allows for meaningful, long-lasting impact.
Building Culture and Alignment in Teams
Organizational culture plays a significant role in enabling sustainable growth. Teams thrive when there is alignment on values, mutual respect, and a shared sense of purpose. Every team member should understand and embody the organization’s ethos. When alignment is lacking, it may become necessary to reconsider team composition to maintain integrity. Simultaneously, leaders bear the responsibility of cultivating this culture by mentoring, guiding, and reinforcing the collective mission. The organization’s goals must always take precedence over individual ambitions.
Patience and Hard Work Are Keys
Entrepreneurs must evaluate the financial viability of their business carefully and maintain patience throughout its evolution. Confidence in the product and its quality is crucial. Success may take time. Entrepreneurs should avoid rushing, as it can be counterproductive. However, with dedication, hard work, and persistence, sustainable success can be achieved.
Gratitude, Mentorship, and Lasting Impact
The session concludes by emphasizing the role of gratitude and mentorship. Entrepreneurs are encouraged to acknowledge those who contribute to their journey and, in turn, uplift others. Success is rarely a solitary achievement. By supporting peers, creating opportunities, and contributing to a nurturing ecosystem, entrepreneurs can scale their ventures while generating lasting impact. True entrepreneurship lies in building something enduring—driven by purpose, grounded in values, and committed to service.
