My story started with a simple thought — I wanted to create something useful and creative at the same time. I have always loved painting and designing, so I decided to blend that passion with a purpose. That’s how I began customizing and painting tote bags based on what people like.
I make hand-painted, customized tote bags. Each bag is designed according to the customer’s preferences, so every piece is unique and has a personal touch.
My inspiration came when I noticed that plastic bags are not available everywhere and many people think that cloth and jute bags look “uncool.” I wanted to change that perspective — to make people enjoy using tote bags by adding creativity, colors and personal designs to them.
My family supported me throughout this journey. They encouraged me to use my free time for something creative and meaningful. My school ST.KABIR HIGH SCHOOL and my teachers had also played a pivotal role in inculcating holistic values and fostering entrepreneurial spirit in students through creativity, risk-taking and innovation by providing resources and support for budding entrepreneurs to turn ideas into ventures.
For me, business means doing something you love that also adds value to others. It’s not just about earning money but about expressing creativity and making people happy with your product.
Creativity helps you earn in your own unique way. When you create something different and personalized, people appreciate it and are willing to pay for it. That’s how creativity can turn into a source of income while still being fun and fulfilling.
My parents and my school have always taught about valuing money because it gives financial independence and helps grow ideas. This business taught me to manage and keep track of all the money.
In the future, I plan to explore new designs, and maybe even start selling online. I want to keep improving my art and inspire more people to choose eco-friendly and stylish options over plastic.
BY ZIL SANGHVI, STD 9 ST. KABIR HIGH SCHOOL NAVRANGPURA
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BEADS, BRAND, BEYOND
SHIMAAZ SAIYED – STD 9
My story started with a simple thought a year ago: what if I could challenge myself and become truly strong and independent? That initial spark led me to launch an Instagram-based online venture “Luxx Gallaries” where I personally make and sell beads bracelets. I got the inspiration for this hands-on work from seeing how others built their own brands, but the real drive came from within myself—the desire to learn business strategy, master content creation and gain independence. While I rely heavily on self-motivation, the biggest encouragement came from my school, family and a few close friends who stood by me, cheering on every new design and post. My school became the catalyst by recognizing a budding designer in me and then turning my journey into a celebration of creativity & courage. School and mentors have always motivated me with their affirmative comments. The school has even given me so many opportunities to express myself and build my confidence level. To me, business isn’t just about making money; it’s a fantastic, real-world classroom where I learn connection, discipline and problem-solving every day. Creativity is the engine that helps me financially; my unique color combinations and the engaging video content I use to attract customers are what transform simple materials into profitable sales. My teachers have helped me learn about fair pricing and how to deal with my customers patiently. As a 9th-grade student, my future plans are to expand my skill set in digital marketing, introduce new product categories like customized items and eventually save up to invest in better production tools, aiming to grow this small idea into a sustainable, independent enterprise.