A journey from struggle to success stands as proof of the incredible support provided by United Way Hyderabad’s initiatives. With their help, individuals like Suchitra gained not only the necessary tools and resources to succeed but also the confidence to overcome societal challenges. Pritesh Kamble, Unit Head of Inclusion Unit at CYDA, demonstrates visionary leadership in championing these efforts, opening doors for empowerment and inspiring LGBTQIA+ community to believe in their potential and strive for success.
Independence, success and happiness are not privileges tied to gender, but basic human rights that everyone, regardless of their identity, deserves to claim.
My journey is a powerful story of empowerment, showing that despite society’s attempts to define me, I have the strength to rewrite my own story – Says Suchitra
Born in Chakan, Maharashtra, into a humble family, Suchitra Salve faced a relentless storm of societal prejudice from the very beginning. Her gender identity, questioned and mocked from a young age, became a battleground where the world tried to impose rigid norms on her, constantly reminding her that she did not fit in. She overcame the harsh whispers, the strict barriers, and the society that tried to hide her true self. Each day, with every challenge, she carved a space for her identity—a space that was hers, and hers alone.
Overcoming Societal Barriers
Growing up as a transgender individual, Suchitra faced immense challenges. Job rejections became routine, as employers refused to see beyond her gender identity. People viewed her community with doubt, believing that they could not succeed or contribute in the same way as others. This judgment was a heavy burden to carry, and it made her feel invisible and underestimated. But despite all the rejection and discrimination, Suchitra refused to give up. She was determined to prove to the world that her worth was not defined by her gender identity. She knew she had the ability to succeed and was determined to show everyone that transgender individuals could thrive just like anyone else.
When she decided to pursue a career in the beauty industry and open a parlor, the criticism grew stronger. A local political leader even mocked her, claiming she would never succeed. But Suchitra remained strong, and his words did not break her. Instead, they made her more determined. She knew her passion and talent were stronger than any prejudice.
A New Beginning
Despite the overwhelming negativity and doubt surrounding her, Suchitra took a bold step forward and started her own business. In the beginning, she faced constant financial struggles, working with rented machines and minimal resources. Every day felt like a battle, as she barely earned Rs.1500/- per month—almost half of which went towards paying rent. Each setback only pushed her to fight harder, driven by the dream of proving that she was capable, no matter the odds stacked against her.
However, her breakthrough came when friends introduced her to CYDA through Rutuja Dehugaonkar. Through CYDA’s business training programs, she gained valuable insights in business planning, marketing strategies, and scalability. These lessons gave her the confidence to structure and grow her business. With a Rs.10,000/- grant from CYDA, she invested in essential equipments, cutting rental costs and stabilizing her income. Her earnings grew to Rs.6000/- to Rs.7000/- per month.
Key Takeaways:
- Business Planning: The training taught Suchitra how to create a clear, structured business plan. She learnt how to set realistic goals, allocate resources efficiently, and track her progress. This helped her stay focused on her long-term vision.
- Marketing Strategies: Suchitra discovered the importance of reaching her target audience through effective marketing. She learnt how to use social media and word-of-mouth to promote her parlor and attract more clients. Understanding her customer base allowed her to modify her services to meet their needs.
- Scalability: One of the most important lessons was how to scale her business. She learnt how to gradually expand her services, improve the quality of her offerings, and reinvest profits to grow. This knowledge gave her the confidence to plan for the future and take calculated risks.
- Financial Management: The training emphasized budgeting, managing expenses, and increasing profitability. Suchitra learnt how to track her income and expenditures carefully, helping her stabilize her earnings and invest in the right tools for growth.
- Confidence & Decision-Making: The business training boosted her confidence. She learnt how to make informed decisions, face challenges and embrace opportunities for growth without fear of failure.
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A Moment of Triumph
Suchitra’s victory at YESummit program, Christ College, Bengaluru was a monumental milestone in her journey as an entrepreneur and a powerful reflection of her unwavering commitment and determination. Standing tall against a diverse group of talented LGBTQIA+ entrepreneurs, she showcased her innovative business ideas and also her deep passion for creating change within the community. She confidently presented her make up and nail art studio during the YESummit.
Sindu Make-Up & Nail Art Studio
Sindu Make-Up & Nail Art Studio specializes in affordable, professional nail art, particularly for short, uneven nails. Offering services at Rs.800/-, well below Rs.1500/- market rate, it caters to young women and working professionals. The studio promotes confidence through personalized designs and encourages inclusivity, welcoming both women and the LGBTQIA+ community.
Unique techniques, a home-service model, and a focus on self-expression set the studio apart. It also supports transgender entrepreneurs, empowering women and driving social change. With word-of-mouth and promotions, the studio aims for 40%-50% growth in the first year, with plans for a dedicated Nail Art Studio.
Securing 1st prize in this prestigious business pitching competition was a significant achievement, marking the culmination of hard work, sleepless nights and unwavering belief in her ability to make an impact. Her victory marked the success of her business and also symbolized the strength and determination of the LGBTQIA+ community—showing the world that diversity in business can fuel creativity, growth and success.
Beyond the 1st prize, this victory earned Suchitra the distinguished honour of representing the LGBTQIA+ community in Bengaluru. It’s a responsibility she approaches with pride, fully aware of the doors her success will open for others in her community. This moment of success is just the beginning for Suchitra—her journey is destined to inspire, to lead, and to leave a legacy of courage, innovation, and community empowerment.
Suchitra’s story is not just about financial success; it is a fight for equality, dignity and acceptance. She urges society to embrace transgender individuals as equals, providing them with the same opportunities to work, learn, and grow. Lessons from CYDA played a crucial role in shaping Suchitra’s mindset and business strategy, leading her to where she is today.
🌈 “We, too, have dreams. We have the ability, the passion, and the determination to succeed. All we ask is acceptance and a fair chance.” – Reflects Suchitra
💪✨ From rejection to recognition, from struggle to success—Suchitra is a name the world will remember.
