Anupama Vittal, CEO of Bean Bag Factory
It’s difficult for them [the government] to understand that coming from a different culture we bring ideas, products and services that they may not have heard of.
..professionals today are too focused on the career (and that is good), but one must take time out for causes you are passionate about.
Anupama Vittal is an entrepreneur who started her life here inCanadawith $67, shopped at a dollar store in the beginning, however she never gave up on her dreams. Armed with an MBA degree in sales and marketing, Anupama came toCanadaas a new immigrant in 2006.
She manages her time between looking after her business called Bean bag Factory. She is a Festival Director of South Asian Mosaic Festival. She is also part of an art group called Kalaniketan and also volunteers her time at Access Employment.
Here is Generation Next’s Shivani Sharma’s interaction with Anupama Vittal:
Tell us something about your background? How supportive has been your
family?
I was born inSouthern Indiaand lived in different countries. I was very fortunate that my parents were liberal. They believed that women should be independent and educated. When I got my first job, they let me find an apartment and live by myself.
What is your educational background?
I have an MBA degree in sales and marketing.
How did you start your career? Who has been your motivation?
I started in sales and was a very private girl who would get nervous in sales calls. That was the best job as it gives you confidence. But I know that “you must keep trying to give your best and never say you failed. Never give up”.
What were the challenges you faced in Canada?
I came to Canada with just two suitcases. I started my life literally with nothing and had no relatives or friends here. I was looking for a job. I slept on the floor on a mattress, went to dollar store to buy two glasses and plates. I used to wonder what if I don’t get a job. I started my business with just $67. I did get a good job and when I saw my business was growing, I quit my job and start concentrating on business.
Do you think that the government here supports entrepreneurs?
It is in some ways. It’s difficult for them to understand that coming from a different culture we bring ideas, products and services that they may not have heard of. That’s why if there is a good business plan in place and you have your finances in order, it’s is easier to get government support. But if not, it’s a struggle and you are spending a lot of time and money to go to government offices to get your case through.
What more would you like the government to do to support businesses
especially after recession and when the banks are hard on giving capital or
credit lines?
One big step is that a bill has been passed for giving special visas to entrepreneurs coming from overseas. They have finally understood the importance of revenue that’s generated by people coming from abroad, typically fromChinaand South Asian countries. Also, having worked with Access, I get to hear a lot of struggle stories by newcomers.
How do you balance your professional and domestic life and the community
events on top of it?
I often feel if there was a drug to avoid sleep I would take it.
What do you think are challenges faced by young professionals today?
..professionals today are too focused on the career (and that is good), but one must take time out for causes you are passionate about.
What are your company’s goals for the next 5 years?
I definitely want it to become a global brand
Are you a very religious person?
I am more spiritual. I believe in Karma. I believe that we all exist in this world for a reason, make a difference and leave a legacy behind. I always thought of giving back to the community and that’s what I have always been passionate about. It is one of the reasons of my success as an artist, professional and in my business.
What is culture to you?
I think culture is synonymous with ethnicity, but to me it is much deeper. Having been born in India, it amazes me how we have cultures in every state in our country. Imagine the range of culture that the whole of South Asia can bring to the world.
Do you think in Canada, the South Asian community has come together
as one community rather than just being Indians, Pakistanis or
Bangladeshis?
Yes they have to a certain extent, but it’s the tip of the iceberg because if you look at South Asians, we are speaking about eight different countries. I feel if a group of people can come forward from these countries and represent the cultures more strongly, there is a lot more scope.
Do you think Canadian multiculturalism is more of a lip service or do you
think more needs to be done?
I think we have come a long way and there is a lot of support from the government too. I had a conference this morning where a lady said that 20 years ago when she came, it all looked a distant dream. But today let our members of parliament say: see where we were and where we are today.
When did you find out that you have an inclination towards arts?
I’ve always painted and won a competition when I was eight years old. About 10 years ago, we had an arts group here called the Kalaniketan where we used to paint. It revived my passion for arts. Today we promote arts from different parts ofCanada; we want to showcase local talent. I have a little gallery called Artescape where we showcase artwork, collaborate with dancers, musicians and directors. It helps in bringing forward arts, theatre and visual art films.
Why did you get involved in Mosaic festival?
When mosaic happened for the first time in 2006, I had just come to the country. I was missing family and also wanted to do something for the community. It turned out to be a welcoming event and brought together Canadian and South Asian culture together.
Why do you think events like Mosaic are crucial?
It is all about fun, music, family, food and bringing the arts together. Art always connect people. Also..children should not forget their roots in this fast-paced world, and Mosaic helps in that quite well.
Don’t you think that we should promote local talent exclusively at such
events?
Our concentration is 60 to 70 per cent local and 30 per cent foreign. We have several young people reach the international level. It is good to see these people performing on YouTube or different locations. At the same time, if there’s a Bollywood star fromIndia, it adds to the charm of the show.
Is art encouraged enough?
Generally in our community, there is a great appreciation for arts. I have seen the growth of many artists like Vishal Misra, an immigrant who came 12 years ago and had no connections. He slowly built up by selling a painting in a train subway for $50 and today his work is for $2,000 flat.
Are there enough art programs in Mississauga or the Region of Peel?
We have visual arts Mississauga, dance academy, Bharatanatyam and Kathak. In theatre there can be more opportunities created.
Any message for young artists?
Do something that makes you unique.
