UnitedWay Hyderabad is fostering inclusivity and providing opportunities for young entrepreneurs and has been instrumental in shaping Arshit Ingale’s transformative journey. Their support has created platforms for countless LGBTQIA+ individuals striving to break barriers. Pritesh Kamble, Unit Head with CYDA writes about the journey of Arshit Ingale.
The Unheard Voices of LGBTQIA+ Youth
In a world where dreams often clash with societal norms, LGBTQIA+ youth frequently find themselves navigating a maze of challenges. From facing discrimination to battling stereotypes, the path to success is rarely straightforward. Yet, through hardships, countless young individuals rise, proving that strength knows no bounds. Among these trailblazers is Arshit Ingale, a trans man from Jalgaon, whose entrepreneurial journey is not just a story of business success but a reflection of the unwavering spirit of the LGBTQIA+ community.
A Dream Born in the Heart of Jalgaon
At just 22, Arshit’s ambition burned brighter than most. Growing up in Jalgaon, he harbored dreams of becoming a business owner since his school days. Being a B.Com graduate, Arshit was not just aiming for a career; he was sculpting a vision for his future. But finding the right industry to pursue was a journey in itself. After much contemplation, Arshit found his calling in banana chip manufacturing, driven by his love for food, appreciation for local flavors, and the growing demand for healthy snacks. However, the journey was far from easy. He faced challenges in mastering food production, from sourcing quality raw materials to maintaining product consistency. Financial constraints made setting up even a small-scale unit daunting, and the lack of mentorship added to his struggles with business strategies and marketing. Skepticism from potential buyers and the looming fear of failure made each hurdle feel overwhelming, yet his determination kept him going.
The Journey of Identity and Aspirations
Arshit’s journey was not just about starting a business; it was about navigating the complexities of his identity. Coming out as a trans man was a significant step, but it also introduced new layers of challenge. Most of his friends were unaware of his transition, adding a layer of isolation to his entrepreneurial pursuits. Arshit sought mentorship, he encountered reluctance from established business owners. Some even tried to discourage him, their words filled with bias, gradually diminishing his self-belief. The invisible barrier of discrimination was as challenging, as the financial hurdles he faced.
Trapped in a Cycle of Financial Challenges
One of Arshit’s biggest obstacles was securing funding. The classic entrepreneurial challenge loomed over him—investors wanted proof of success before providing support, but success was impossible without initial capital. Professional mentorship was expensive, and the lack of financial backing made it hard to determine the practicality of his business idea. Arshit’s savings dwindled, and his earlier jobs, which brought in Rs.30,000/- monthly, could not sustain him amongst the rising costs of setting up his business.
A Beacon of Hope
Introduced to CYDA through a friend, Arshit found more than just financial assistance; he discovered a community that believed in him. Through CYDA’s business training program, Arshit was equipped with the tools to navigate the entrepreneurial landscape. He learnt about diverse business models, strategic planning, and the art of networking with fellow entrepreneurs. The program was not just about theory—it provided practical insights into customer interactions, sales tactic,s and resource allocation. The turning point came when CYDA granted Arshit Rs.10,000/-. He used the grant to conduct market research, develop his business plan, and set up a stall for his products.
From Setbacks to Stepping Stones
Despite these strides, each milestone was met with new challenges, from navigating the complexities of market dynamics to facing unexpected financial hurdles. Arshit often found himself juggling multiple responsibilities and working long hours. Additionally, the pressure to maintain a steady income while investing time and resources into his business created a constant strain, making it difficult to balance personal well-being with entrepreneurial ambitions. Buyers were hesitant to trust a new vendor, preferring established relationships. Investors remained skeptical, and the financial strain was overwhelming.
The feedback was invaluable, helping him refine his products and business approach. Slowly but surely, Arshit began to build a customer base, breaking the cycle of financial instability.
Achievements Beyond Numbers
Today, Arshit’s banana chip manufacturing business is in its early stages, while his current earnings are minimal. His journey is not just about entrepreneurship; it is about breaking stereotypes, challenging expectations, and showcasing the resilience of LGBTQIA+ youth. Today, he is earning over Rs.30K. Arshit believes that society often underestimates the potential of LGBTQIA+ entrepreneurs. It challenges biases and highlights the importance of inclusive support systems like CYDA, which empowers young entrepreneurs to thrive despite the odds.
