Goa Tycoon - JUNE ISSUE 2023

Custom Elements

Empowering Automotive Enthusiasts with Unique Accessories & Informative Content

ConsStruct

A Civil engineering firm which provides engineering solutions based in Goa

The Beach Company

Redefining Water Lifestyle in India

Scissors & Paper

A Journey of Creativity & Passion

Crafting Natural Beauty, One Soap at a Time Anaaya's Handmade

H2 - Health Habits

Revolutionizing Nutrition with Quantified Food

Editorial

Dear Readers,

Welcome to the June issue of our business emagazine, Goa Tycoon.

On our cover this month, we proudly feature the founders of Custom Elements, a remarkable start-up based in Fatorda. The start-up, which began its journey in February 2017, deals in motorcycle gear and also offers customisation services for motorcycle enthusiasts. Their commitment to delivering quality products has earned them a prominent place in the industry.

As we delve deeper into the magazine, we explore the journeys of two amazing homebased enterprises: Anaaya's Handmade and Scissors & Paper. Anaaya's Handmade crafts exquisite handcrafted soaps and beauty products, using natural ingredients that nourish the body and soul, while Scissors & Paper offers a diverse range of handmade products such as personalised cards, photo frames, and event decorations.

This month’s edition also features a story on The Beach Company, a Mumbai-based enterprise (with operations in Panjim) that offers a wide range of swimwear and swimming gear. Furthermore, we shine a spotlight on Consstruct, a civil engineering consulting firm headquartered in Goa.

Specialising in maintenance and construction projects primarily in the United States and Scandinavian countries, Consstruct has become a global name synonymous with expertise and professionalism.

As we continue flipping through the pages of this month’s issue, we come across H2 - Health Habits, a nutritional food delivery startup. With their wide range of healthy and balanced meals tailored to individual fitness goals, H2-Health Habits is making a significant impact on people's well-being. They are empowering individuals to adopt healthy eating habits, proving that good nutrition can be both convenient and delicious. Last but not least, we bring you the story of Aaru Masalas, a home-based enterprise that offers an array of exotic premixes and masalas. The enterprise, which started its journey in 2021, has captured the essence of Goa's vibrant culinary culture, adding a touch of authenticity to kitchens across the region and beyond.

As the azure skies of summer give way to dark clouds and refreshing downpours, Goa transforms into a lush, green paradise during the monsoon season. While Goa's beaches and vibrant nightlife attract tourists all year round, the monsoon season offers a unique experience. The coastal landscape, bathed in rain, assumes a tranquil and serene ambiance, perfect for those seeking solace and rejuvenation. Tourism stakeholders in Goa should capitalise on this and work to promote monsoon tourism, highlighting activities like waterfall treks, river cruises, and Ayurvedic therapies.

Well that's all I have for you from my desk this month. I hope you enjoy reading this month’s edition of Goa Tycoon. Do share it with your friends all across the world. Until next month, cheers!

Jessyl Fernandez Editor

01 Custom Elements

02 Consstruct

03 The Beach Company

04 Scissors & Paper

05 Anaaya’s Handmade

06 H2 - Health Habits

07 Aaru Masalas

Introduction

Goa, the tiniest state on the western coast of India, boasts golden pristine beaches, palmfringed avenues, flavourful food, delicious Portuguese-influenced sweets, and warm, hospitable people. Also known as the Ibiza of India for its partying. A tropical paradise of flora and fauna, from the very famous 'Almi' (mushrooms) endemic to its forests, that grow only on the red mud anthills, to the solar prawns that are fished immediately after the monsoons, Goa is unique. Tourists are also attracted to Goa for its cultural heritage - from the famous old Portuguese churches like Se Cathedral in Old Goa, the 16th Century Safa Masjid in Ponda and Shree Mangesha Temple in Mardol, the legendary Arvalem or Pandava Caves where the Pandavas of the Mahabharat fame lived, to its two unique festivals - Carnival and Shigmo. Goa plays host to many festivals - the International Film Festival of India that promotes cinema, the Serendipity Art Festival, Sunburn Music Festival, The Grape Escapade to name a few. To showcase this varied heritage of culture, art, tradition, food, and people, in 2015 ItsGoa was born. The main aim was to make it the premier portal for all things Goa. We were able to showcase Goa like never before. Soon our blogbased website transcended the virtual space, with the ItsGoa magazine – a sought-after resource for visitors to Goa from countries like Norway, Germany, UK, USA, UAE, etc.

Chief Editor

Jessyl Fernandez

Content Manager

Steve Antao

Sales & Marketing

Donald Fernandez

Graphics & Layout

Shashank Parab

Social Media Manager

Saviola Dias

For advertising queries: 9370502124 / 9209005127

ItsGoa Media Group

Nordic Intent HQ - Floor 3, PDA

Colony, Porvorim, Goa 403521

Email : mail@itsgoa.com

Website: itsgoa.com

Article by: Steve Antao

In the dynamic world of startups, there are those that cater to niche markets, addressing the needs and passions of specific communities. Custom Elements, founded in February 2017 by Arbaaz Sha Muzawer and Wasim Shaikh, is a shining example of such a startup. With a focus on the automotive industry, Custom Elements aims to be the ultimate destination for enthusiasts, providing a wide range of accessories and gear along with valuable content. Let's delve deeper into the journey, products, challenges, and future plans of this innovative venture.

The Birth of Custom Elements

The spark of entrepreneurship ignited within Arbaaz Sha Muzawer, a seasoned professional with a background in computer science, leading him to envision a venture of his own. Seeking a like-minded partner, Arbaaz approached Wasim Shaikh, who brought a wealth of experience in sales and operations, complementing Arbaaz's technological and strategic strengths. Together, they embarked on the journey to create Custom Elements, inspired by their shared passion for the automotive industry.

Team Custom Elements

Sena range of helmets

Products Offered

Custom Elements provides a comprehensive online platform for motorcycle enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of accessories and gear sourced from authorised importers and manufacturers worldwide. By leveraging partnerships with logistics companies, they ensure seamless delivery of products across India. Moreover, Custom Elements distinguishes itself by providing informative content that aids riders in their journey and empowers them to make wellinformed purchasing decisions.

The Founders

Arbaaz Sha Muzawer, armed with a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science and nine years of professional experience, including three years as an SAP CRM Consultant at Maventic Innovative Solutions Private Limited, brings invaluable technical and strategic expertise to Custom Elements. Wasim Shaikh, with an MBA in Marketing and eleven years of experience, including roles as COO of Custom Elements and in sales and business operations at prominent companies like Bosch and ACT Fibernet, contributes his strong sales and operational acumen to the startup's success

The Journey & Evolution

Custom Elements initially began as a platform to connect various stakeholders in the motorcycle market. However, after thorough market research and a course correction, they pivoted their business model to focus on a custom design house for helmets and motorcycles. Despite initial excitement, this endeavour didn't yield the desired results, leading them to eventually shift gears and venture into ecommerce for motorcycling  accessories. This decision proved to be a turning point, capturing the attention of Indian consumers riding motorcycles with engine capacities of 200cc and above.

Public Response

Custom Elements encountered some initial challenges when they started as a helmet design house, as the public perceived their designs to be expensive. However, their transition to e-commerce was met with enthusiasm and appreciation from the motorcycle community. Today, their major clients include Indian consumers passionate about motorcycling and seeking high-quality accessories to enhance their riding experience.

Challenges Faced

Setting up a startup is never without its challenges, but Custom Elements managed to overcome them with determination and resourcefulness. However, they acknowledge the assistance they received from Fiire, a startup incubator based at Fatorda, which offered excellent facilities for their employees and helped them access funding through various schemes. This support played a crucial role in scaling up their operations.

Future Plans

Looking ahead, Custom Elements has ambitious plans to expand its business by entering the car enthusiasts' market. Additionally, they aim to extend their reach beyond national boundaries and explore opportunities in other countries, expanding their customer base and global presence.

Words of Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Arbaaz and Wasim offer a simple yet powerful message to aspiring entrepreneurs in Goa: seize the moment and embark on your entrepreneurial journey without delay. They emphasise that entrepreneurship may be challenging, but it is an incredibly fulfilling and enjoyable experience.

Custom Elements has carved a niche for itself in the automotive industry by providing a one-stop destination for enthusiasts seeking high-quality accessories and gear. With their focus on customer satisfaction, informative content, and plans for expansion into new markets, Custom Elements is poised to continue its growth and deliver exceptional experiences to automotive enthusiasts in India and beyond.

Custom Elements

For customer support, please visit the Custom Elements website at www.customelements.in

Reach out via phone at +91 9066694591 Email: support@customelements.in

For business inquiries, contact info@customelements.in

For career opportunities, email careers@customelements.in

Stay updated with Custom Elements on social media: Instagram: www.instagram.com/customelements/ Facebook: www.facebook.com/customelementsofficial/

Carbonado Modpac Tailbag

Axor DC Series helmets

Article by: Steve Antao

Images by: Consstruct

Consstruct is a civil engineering consulting firm headquartered in Goa, specialising in maintenance and construction projects primarily in the United States and Scandinavian countries in Europe. Their core expertise lies in providing engineering solutions for asphalt and concrete pavement structures. Additionally, they conduct assessments of retail, commercial, and industrial properties owned by their clients. With an impressive annual workload of 6000-8000 projects, Consstruct collaborates with ground teams in the US and Scandinavia, utilising drone technology to capture imagery data of these properties. The collected data is then processed by the Consstruct team in Goa using specialised engineering software. They analyse the structural and non-structural defects, anticipate future issues, and identify underlying failures and defects in both motor-able and nonmotor-able roads within these properties.

Based on their assessments, Consstruct formulates maintenance and reconstruction solutions for their clients, planning for periods of up to ten years. These solutions are meticulously budgeted and systematically organised from start to finish, allowing the execution teams to implement them precisely as instructed by the engineers at Consstruct.

The Journey Of Consstruct

Consstruct commenced its journey in July 2021 as a three-member team closely collaborating with their partner team in the US. Over the course of six to eight months, they refined and streamlined their processes, establishing training programs to onboard graduate engineers within a short period. Their first pilot project lasted until December, during which they focused on building a reliable reputation despite the geographical distance. They successfully delivered 5,000 projects that year, solidifying themselves as a trusted enterprise and subsequently expanding their team from three to five members.

The founders of Consstruct were motivated by the opportunity they identified and tapped into a niche market. They recognised the potential for a monopoly in this field, as no other company was operating at a similar scale. Within two years, Consstruct has grown exponentially, undertaking 10,000 projects and earning the trust of their partner teams in the US. Credibility, system establishment, and finding the right personnel were among the initial challenges faced by the founding team.

Shortlisted Candidates At The Consstruct Placement Drive At DBCE, Goa

Convincing clients of their reliability and commitment to delivering quality services required dedicated effort and hard work. However, Consstruct overcame these challenges, building a name for themselves through their unwavering dedication.

The Consstruct Team

The team at Consstruct comprises the operations manager, project engineers, lead engineers, trainee engineers, and interns. Additionally, they have dedicated teams for sales, marketing, finance, and HR. Newly recruited engineers undergo comprehensive training for two to three months, covering project management and execution courses. Training includes live demonstrations, reading materials, and interactive sessions. The engineers are then divided into individual teams, each handling a project independently.

Consstruct also maintains an internal Quality Control team to ensure the high standard of work delivered by their execution team. Quality is of utmost importance to Consstruct as they aim to establish credibility and reliability with their clients.

They strive to provide accurate and effective solutions, never compromising on their commitment to excellence. Beyond their core focus on pavement engineering, Consstruct also undertakes 3D rendering, photomontage, architectural design, construction, quantity estimation, and structural design projects.

The Company’s USP

What sets Consstruct apart from other civil engineering firms is their commitment to embracing modern technology. By employing an efficient system, they are able to process the captured data for their clients within an hour, a significant improvement compared to the week-long process followed by other companies. This streamlined approach ensures costeffectiveness and optimal resource utilisation.

Consstruct provides white-collar job opportunities for freshers, allowing them to work with cutting-edge technology. Operating exclusively from their office, they offer recent college graduates the chance to tackle multimillion-dollar projects throughout their tenure.

Inteview Session At Consstruct Drive

Speech By Consstruct Operation Manager

Consstruct exposes these engineers to international projects, instilling confidence in them to work independently, devise solutions, and collaborate with prestigious clients. In 2022, Consstruct conducted recruitment drives at engineering colleges in Goa, attracting enthusiastic graduate engineers. They recently completed their second recruitment drive and plan to hire the selected engineers upon their graduation at the end of July this year.

The Work Culture at Consstruct

Apart from work, the team at Consstruct actively engage in social activities such as treks, clean-up drives, team dinners, jam sessions, monsoon treks, festival celebrations, sports events, nature cleanups, and office parties and games. Their office environment is inspired by IT companies, featuring exceptional facilities like a swimming pool, game tables, and bulletin boards.

They also practice the European social tradition of Fika, which involves evening coffee sessions with colleagues to foster camaraderie and facilitate personal connections beyond work.

Future Plans

Looking ahead, Consstruct aims to expand its team further, explore new engineering disciplines such as mechanical and electrical engineering,  and offer comprehensive services worldwide. Their vision encompasses innovation in engineering, providing panoramic services to the civil industry, creating growth opportunities for graduate engineers, and contributing to the environment through green initiatives.

Consstruct Team Picture

Article by: Steve Antao

Images by: The Beach

Introduction

The Beach Company, founded by Harshad Daswani and Pri Shewakramani, is a Mumbai-based based business that aims to revolutionise the way Indians approach water. Established a few years before the pandemic, the company offers lifestyle choices and products to individuals and families, allowing them to enjoy water activities in a fashionable and safe manner. With a diverse range of over 5,000 items, The Beach Company strives to become India's largest beachwear retailer, catering to the growing demand for beachwear and water sport-related products

Vision & Concept

The Beach Company was born out of a simple yet innovative idea—to provide Indians with a wide range of options to spend quality time in and around water. Harshad and Pri recognised the need for fashionforward and functional water lifestyle products in India and set out to bridge this gap. With a focus on offering global offerings to Indian holiday-makers, The Beach Company aims to enhance the water experience for individuals and families while establishing itself as a leading brand in the beachwear market.

Overcoming Challenges & Growth

Like any business, The Beach Company faced several challenges when it just started off. One major lesson that the founders Harshad and Pri learned during their journey was the importance of prioritising supply chain and logistics in a large and diverse country like India. By ensuring a smooth and efficient supply chain, a company can minimise disruptions and deliver products to customers in a timely manner. Additionally, The Beach Company highlights the significance of banking digital creatives, enabling faster and more effective marketing responses.

Dispelling Misconceptions

The Beach Company seeks to dispel the misconception that their products are exclusive to travellers. While swimming was once limited to club memberships, the growth of clubhouses in residential complexes, the rise of holiday villas in destinations like

Goa, and the availability of budget airlines have made beaches, resorts, and pools more accessible to everyone. The Beach Company aims to create awareness that their products cater to a wider audience beyond travel enthusiasts.

Harshad Daswani, Co-Founder, The Beach Company

Pri Shewakramani, Co-Founder, The Beach Company

Sustainable Initiatives

With a commitment to environmental sustainability, The Beach Company actively works with organisations such as HIGG_FEM to develop strategies that reduce their environmental impact. They collaborate with brands to promote the reuse of packaging and find ways to minimise any negative ecological effects. By offering products that demonstrate a reduction in environmental impact, The Beach Company encourages customers to make conscious choices while enjoying their water-related activities.

Future Plans & Collaboration

The Beach Company envisions a strategic collaboration with a global swim company in the online space. This partnership would provide Indian brands represented by The Beach Company with opportunities to showcase their products on a global stage. Additionally, the company plans to expand its product offering to include loungewear and other holiday-specific categories, aiming to become a true challenger to traditional retail formats.

Conclusion

The Beach Company has successfully carved a niche in the Indian market by revolutionising water lifestyle choices and offering a wide range of fashionable and functional products. With a strong focus on supply chain management, sustainability, and future expansion, Harshad Daswani and Pri Shewakramani have positioned The Beach Company as a leader in the beach and holiday industry. Their dedication to providing innovative solutions and catering to the evolving needs of customers sets them apart in this growing sector.

So what are you waiting for guys? Head down to The Beach Company’s online store and check out their amazing range of swimwear, swimming equipment, pool equipment, and lots more.

The Beach Company

Website: https://www.thebeachcompany.in/

Follow The Beach Company on social media Facebook: facebook.com/thebeachcompanyindia Instagram: instagram.com/thebeachcompanyindia

Inflatables & Pool Loungers from The Beach Company with over 150 styles to choose from

Men's board shorts

Scissors & Paper

In 2019, Faye De Souza embarked on a remarkable journey of entrepreneurship, establishing Scissors & Paper, a small business driven by her passion for creativity. With no formal business strategy, investment, or plan, Faye relied on her ingenuity and artistic abilities to transform her vision into reality. Located in Parra, India, Scissors & Paper operates primarily through digital channels, using platforms such as Instagram, WhatsApp, and Facebook for communication and promotion.

Product & Service Offerings

Scissors & Paper started as a craft-based enterprise and soon expanded to include a diverse range of handmade products. Faye's creative endeavours encompass various areas, including macrame, gift hamper boxes, Christmas wreaths, and other unique handcrafted items. From personalised cards and photo frames to intricate table pieces and decorative backdrops, Scissors & Paper caters to individuals seeking one-of-a-kind gifts and event decorations.

Founders' Profile

Faye De Souza, the founder of Scissors & Paper, hails from a background in Mass Communication & Journalism. Although seemingly unrelated, Faye discovered that both her professional expertise and artistic pursuits relied on the power of creativity. Drawing from her experiences in marketing and video production, she honed her skills while working with renowned clients such as Bisleri, The Taj Mahal Palace Mumbai, and Holiday Inn. Currently serving as a Marketing Strategist and Video Production Head for various companies, Faye continues to balance her professional career while nurturing her small business as a solo woman entrepreneur.

Inspiration & Ideation

The spark for Scissors & Paper ignited during Faye's school years when she created unique cards for her friends every summer vacation. Driven by a love for crafting and a desire to share her creativity, Faye decided to establish her own business. With an impulsive leap of faith, she quickly conceived the name 'Scissors & Paper' and began showcasing her existing creations through an Instagram account. Encouragement from friends and family, combined with the support of her social media network, propelled her business forward.

Evil Eye Dreamcatcher and Macrame Dreamcatcher by Scissors & Paper

Scissors & Paper received an overwhelmingly positive response from the public, starting with Faye's family and friends. Word-of-mouth marketing, aided by social media, helped attract attention and generate orders. As the business gained momentum, Faye secured clients from all corners of India, including repeat customers who appreciated her handmade gift hamper boxes, occasion-based decorations, and Christmas wreaths. Scissors & Paper caters to a diverse clientele, with a focus on Goans and nonGoans alike, providing personalised and bulk orders to meet various gifting and decorative needs.

Challenges & Support

Despite the inherent challenges of starting a business, Faye's unwavering passion for her craft and her determination to succeed enabled her to overcome any obstacles. The unwavering support of her family, friends, and social media connections played a crucial role in the early stages, helping her establish a strong foundation for Scissors & Paper.

Future Plans

Looking ahead, Faye has exciting plans for Scissors & Paper. She aims to rebrand the business with a new name, reflecting its growth and evolution. Additionally, she is on the cusp of launching a groundbreaking product that promises to be a game-changer for her enterprise. Faye envisions taking her business online through e-commerce, with a revamped website serving as a platform to showcase her innovative creations and cater to a wider audience.

Final Thoughts

Faye De Souza's entrepreneurial journey with Scissors & Paper exemplifies the power of following one's passion. Her story is a testament to the fact that starting a business based on creativity and dedication can lead to fulfilling endeavours and unexpected success. As Faye continues to touch more hearts through her handcrafted products, she encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to embrace their dreams, take that first step, and let their aspirations become their wings.

For more information about Scissors & Paper, visit:

Website: https://www.scissorspaper.in/  Google: https://g.co/kgs/yzqrft

Instagram: instagram.com/scissors_paper_/  Other business: https://www.instagram.com/ whitepassionevents/

Macrame Lanyard Keychain by Scissors & Paper

Customised Christmas Wreath by Scissors & Paper

Macrame Lanyard Keychain by Scissors & Paper

In a world saturated with chemical-laden beauty products, Anaaya's Handmade stands out as a beacon of purity and authenticity. Founded in 2017 by Divya George Dessai, a passionate nurse turned entrepreneur, Anaaya's Handmade offers a range of handcrafted soaps and beauty products made from certified oils and natural ingredients. What started as a personal experiment has blossomed into a thriving enterprise that prioritises the well-being of its customers. With a commitment to quality and a vision of bringing natural products into every home, Anaaya's Handmade is revolutionising the beauty industry, one bar of soap at a time.

Crafting Natural Artistry

Anaaya's Handmade specialises in curating body, hair, and face products that are free from parabens and other harmful additives. Each product is carefully crafted to address specific skin and hair concerns, catering to individual needs. From soothing soaps to invigorating shampoos, luxurious bath salts to aromatic candles, their product range showcases the beauty of nature's ingredients. Notably, their bestselling donkey milk and camel milk soaps have gained recognition for their exceptional qualities.

The Visionary Founder

Divya George Dessai, the driving force behind Anaaya's Handmade, hails from the picturesque village of Sancoale and brings with her 17 years of nursing experience. Her personal journey into the world of natural remedies began during her pregnancy when she developed allergies to commercially available products. Motivated by the desire to find relief and armed with a curiosity for natural ingredients, Divya discovered the art of soapmaking. Her expertise in herbs and essential oils led her to create a range of products that healed her own skin issues and those of her family and friends. Inspired by their positive feedback, Divya named her venture after her daughter, Anaaya, giving birth to Anaaya's Handmade.

From Humble Beginnings

The early days of Anaaya's Handmade were met with mixed responses. As a pioneering concept, it took time for customers to recognise the benefits of natural skincare. However, Divya's determination and belief in her products led her to showcase them at women entrepreneur exhibitions. It was through these platforms that the brand gained trust and a loyal customer base. Positive word-of-mouth and satisfied customers propelled Anaaya's Handmade forward, cementing its position as a trusted provider of natural beauty products.

Empowering Women, Transforming Lives

Anaaya's Handmade has garnered a diverse customer base, with women struggling with acne and hair fall becoming their major clients. Divya's dedication to creating effective and personalised solutions for their skin and hair concerns has won the hearts of many. The brand also collaborates with guest houses and resorts, supplying customised soaps that elevate the guest experience. Additionally, Anaaya's Handmade offers unique themed soaps and hampers for special occasions, becoming a go-to choice for personalised and thoughtful gifts. Their products are also sold through white-label arrangements across the country, expanding their reach and impact.

Kumkumadi Thailum, an ancient natural oil for face that treats antiageing and pigmentation

Overcoming Challenges

Like any new venture, Anaaya's Handmade faced its fair share of challenges. Balancing the demands of entrepreneurship, family, and a professional career required immense dedication and careful prioritisation. However, Divya's unwavering passion for soap-making and the support of her family proved invaluable. Collaborating with fellow women entrepreneurs and finding support from organisations like Gowomania strengthened her journey. The setback of losing her home to a fire in 2019 brought forth an outpouring of support from the entrepreneurial community, igniting hope and inspiring a fresh start.

The Path Ahead

Looking to the future, Anaaya's Handmade envisions a world where their products find a place in every home. Divya aims to promote the consumption of locally made and natural products, advocating for a shift toward a healthier and more sustainable lifestyle. With a commitment to providing the best quality and an emphasis on authenticity, Anaaya's Handmade continues to innovate and create beauty products that nurture both body and soul.

A Message of Authenticity

Divya's journey with Anaaya's Handmade is an inspiring testament to the power of following one's passion and trusting in one's abilities. Her advice to readers is simple yet profound: Be authentic, prioritise quality, and be the best version of yourself. Through her brand, she encourages everyone to embrace natural beauty and support local businesses.

To explore the world of Anaaya's Handmade and experience the transformative power of natural skincare, follow their journey on Instagram

@anaayashandmade_soaps and Facebook

@Anaaya's Handmade. Embark on a path of self-care and indulge in the nourishing embrace of nature's gifts with Anaaya's Handmade.

Anti-hairfall hair oil

Fruit-themed takeaway soaps

Divya George Dessai, Proprietor, Anaaya's Handmade

Article by: Steve Antao

Images by: H2 - Health Habits

In the pursuit of building a healthy society and promoting nutritious eating habits, H2-Health Habits, a nutritional food delivery startup, has emerged as a frontrunner. Founded in January 2022 in the South Goa village of Curchorem, H2-Health Habits aims to educate people about healthy eating and provide them with quantified nutrition. With a diverse range of products and personalised meal plans, H2-Health Habits has quickly gained popularity and is making a significant impact on people's lives.

The Founders

The brains behind H2-Health Habits are Shalaka

Dinesh Shet Teli and Sneha Kavlekar, both INFS

Certified Nutrition and Fitness Coaches. Shalaka, a biomedical engineer by profession, brings a unique perspective to the startup, while Sneha, a nationallevel silver medalist in powerlifting, possesses indepth knowledge of nutrition and fitness. Inspired by their coach, Ratil Kavlekar, who has transformed numerous clients with proper nutrition and workout plans, Shalaka and Sneha set out to create awareness about "Quantified Food" and help people lead fit and healthy lives.

Early Response & Growth

When H2-Health Habits first began its operations, the response from the public was modest. However, within a short span of time, word spread about the startup's commitment to quality, transparency, and personalised nutrition. As a result, H2-Health Habits experienced exponential growth, surpassing expectations. Starting with just 10 clients in August 2022, the company now serves over 400 clients, delivering 250 meals a day.

Products Offered

H2-Health Habits offers a wide range of healthy and balanced meals tailored to meet the individual fitness goals of their clients. It provides customers the freedom to choose their preferred food, ensuring their dietary preferences are accommodated. Transparency is a core principle at H2, as clients can easily access information about the ingredients used in their meals. Furthermore, the start-up provides customisable meal options, allowing customers to align their nutrition with specific fitness objectives. Every meal is meticulously designed and overseen by certified nutritionists, ensuring optimal nutritional value.

Catering to Special Dietary Needs

Recognising the high prevalence of lifestyle disorders in today's society, H2-Health Habits goes the extra mile to provide special meals for individuals suffering from obesity, diabetes, high uric acid, PCOD/PCOS, thyroid disorders, heart diseases, and other lifestylerelated conditions. By incorporating safe and special ingredients like coconut oil and apple cider vinegar in the meals prepared by them, H2-Health Habits helps customers maintain their body parameters and improve their overall well-being.

Sneha Kavlekar, Co-Founder, H2 Health Habits

Challenges & Support

Running a growing business comes with its fair share of challenges. For H2-Health Habits, one major hurdle has been managing labour and day-to-day operations while scaling up. However, the unwavering support of loyal clients and the invaluable assistance provided by Fiire (Forum for Innovation, Incubation, Research and Entrepreneurship) have been instrumental in overcoming these challenges. The startup has won a lot of accolades ever since it started its journey in 2022.

One among the many feathers in their cap include being crowned runners-up at the Business Diva 2023 event organised by the Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Future Plans & Expansion

Looking ahead, H2-Health Habits has ambitious plans for expansion. The company intends to establish three additional cloud kitchens to cater to a broader customer base in different parts of Goa. Moreover, it aims to develop a dedicated mobile app, expand its network by collaborating with fitness hubs, private corporate offices, institutions, and the healthcare sector. By diversifying its reach and impact, H2-Health Habits aims to serve health to more people while generating employment opportunities for Goan youths.

Conclusion

H2-Health Habits is more than just a food delivery service—it is a catalyst for positive change in people's lives. By focusing on quantified nutrition, personalised meal plans, and an unwavering commitment to health, H2 is reshaping the way people approach food. The founders, Shalaka Dinesh Shet Teli and Sneha Kavlekar, serve as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs, emphasising the importance of perseverance and the willingness to embrace both success and failure on the path to achievement.

Article by: Team ItsGoa

Images:

In the realm of culinary delights, Aaru Masalas has emerged as a rising star, bringing a unique blend of flavours and convenience to kitchens across Goa. Founded in 2021 by Dr. Varsha Vinayak Ganpule, this homegrown enterprise has quickly captured the taste buds and hearts of food enthusiasts with its diverse range of premixes and masalas. Combining the passion for good food and the desire to simplify cooking, Aaru Masalas has become synonymous with authentic taste, health, and quick meals.

A Blend of Flavours & Convenience

Aaru Masalas was born out of Dr. Varsha's quest to understand the nuances of flavour in various recipes. With a deep love for cooking and a keen eye for culinary science, she embarked on a mission to decipher why seemingly identical dishes could taste so distinct. The startup offers a range of 18 premixes and 20 masalas, catering to different palates and preferences, from the northern to southern parts of Goa.

The premixes provide a convenient solution for those leading busy lives. With Aaru Masalas' premixes, cooking becomes a breeze. Just open the packet, mix, cook, and voila! Your desired dish is ready in a matter of minutes. These premixes save time without compromising on taste, allowing individuals to enjoy a wholesome and delicious meal even on their busiest days. Aaru Masalas ensures that all their products are free from preservatives and artificial colours, providing healthy and flavourful options.

Founder's Profile

Dr. Varsha Vinayak Ganpule, the driving force behind Aaru Masalas, hails from Goa and holds a degree in Homeopathy. With her professional expertise and culinary passion, she embarked on a journey to create a range of masalas that would elevate homecooked meals to a new level. Driven by her personal experience of juggling a busy schedule while providing nutritious food to her family, Dr. Varsha wanted to empower other women with the ability to cook quick, healthy, and tasty meals effortlessly.

Early Success & Challenges

The response from the public when Aaru Masalas first emerged was overwhelmingly positive. The flavours and quality of the premixes and masalas resonated with customers, who quickly embraced the brand. However, the challenge lay in educating people about the concept of premixes and the versatility of the masalas. Overcoming these challenges required patience, persistence, and a commitment to delivering exceptional taste and convenience.

A dish prepared using one of the premixes from the Aaru Masala range

Major Clients & Support

Aaru Masalas has found a dedicated customer base among busy individuals seeking healthy, preservativefree meal solutions. Working women, bachelors, and elderly individuals have all embraced the convenience and flavours offered by Aaru Masalas. Furthermore, the support from Dr. Varsha's daughters and the Women Entrepreneurs Business Network (WEBN) played instrumental roles in propelling the enterprise forward.

Future Plans

Dr. Varsha aims to expand the presence of Aaru Masalas Pan-India and explore international markets. Her belief in the magical essence of Indian spices is the  driving force behind her ambition to share the flavours of India with the world.

Words of Advice

Dr. Varsha Ganpule encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to remain steadfast in their faith and commit wholeheartedly to their work. She emphasises the importance of patience, hard work, and focusing on one's strengths. With a smile, she advises individuals to persevere through challenges, for success is often found on the other side of adversity.

Conclusion

Aaru Masalas has carved a niche for itself in the culinary landscape of Goa, offering a delightful combination of flavours, convenience, and healthy cooking. Dr. Varsha's passion for food, backed by her expertise as a homeopath, has resulted in a range of premixes and masalas that bring joy to kitchens and plates alike. As Aaru Masalas continues to grow, its mission to deliver authentic taste and make cooking effortless remains at the core of its endeavours.

Aaru Masala's range of pre-mixes