At BrilliantRead Media, it is our constant endeavour to bring meaningful and powerful stories from India and around the world to empower and motivate our growing community. As part of this, we invited Rishabh Sharma for an exclusive interview with us. Rishabh is an Entrepreneur and Founder & CEO of RARS Impressive Learning Private Limited. Let’s learn more about his incredible journey, background and advice for our growing community!
Excerpts from our exclusive interview with Rishabh:
Could you please talk us through your background and your journey?
My journey has been anything but conventional, marked by challenges, resilience, and an unyielding drive to turn adversity into opportunity. Life tested me in my early years, labelling me a “troublemaker” as a child, a term that perhaps stemmed more from my unyielding spirit than any real defiance.
At just two years old, I underwent radiation therapy, an experience that left an indelible mark on my outlook toward life. Growing up, I faced the kind of obstacles that might deter many, but for me, they became the fuel to push harder, dream bigger, and build something meaningful.
Among these challenges, one of the most gruelling periods of my life was in the early 2000s when I battled a significant health deficiency. It required daily injections for two years—a physically and emotionally draining ordeal. The financial burden was immense, as the injections were incredibly costly at the time, placing a strain on my family.
Yet, this phase taught me invaluable lessons about enduring pain, managing adversity, and finding strength even in the darkest times. Looking back, it wasn’t just the injections but the resolve to push through every obstacle that defined those years and shaped the person I am today.
Despite these hurdles, I pursued my education with determination, earning a BBA in Management from 2005 to 2009. This experience provided me with a strong foundation in business principles and management strategies, fueling my interest in creating value through impactful initiatives. Later, in 2015, I completed a Master’s in Luxury Brand Management, which refined my understanding of branding, consumer insights, and delivering exceptional experiences—skills that continue to influence my professional endeavors.
Shifting cities during my formative years uprooted any sense of stability, while academic struggles culminated in expulsion from school due to poor grades. It was a moment that could have easily defined my trajectory, but instead, it became the turning point. Enrolling in the National Open School (NOS) alongside children with special needs was an experience that profoundly shaped my character.
Surrounded by peers who demonstrated extraordinary resilience and kindness despite their own challenges, I learned that strength is not about the absence of difficulty but the grace with which we confront it. Their stories inspired me, and through sheer determination, I not only excelled at NOS but re-entered the mainstream CBSE education system, a testament to the power of perseverance.
The challenges didn’t end there. College brought with it the harsh realities of ragging and isolation, testing my mental and emotional fortitude. Yet, in those moments of solitude, I discovered an inner strength that would become my anchor in the years to come.
Stepping into the corporate world wasn’t any easier. I faced numerous job rejections, each one a blow to my confidence but also a lesson in resilience. Every “No” only strengthened my resolve to prove that I had something unique to offer.
Fast forward to today, I now bring over 11 years of diverse professional experience spanning sales, marketing, operations, customer relationship management, coordination, and communication. It’s a journey that has taken me across varied industries such as sports event management, public relations, automotive sales, and expatriate relocation.
Each role, no matter how different, added a new layer of depth to my understanding of people, businesses, and the art of delivering value. These experiences weren’t just jobs; they were classrooms where I learned how to connect with people, solve complex problems, and adapt to the ever-changing dynamics of the professional world.
My time in sports event management taught me the importance of meticulous planning and coordination under high-pressure situations. Working in public relations honed my ability to craft compelling narratives and manage reputations with precision.
Automotive sales introduced me to the art of negotiation and customer engagement, while expatriate relocation opened my eyes to the complexities of managing cross-cultural interactions and providing exceptional service to clients navigating major life transitions in the real estate world. These varied experiences enriched my skill set and gave me a 360-degree view of what it means to truly serve customers and build lasting relationships.
This diverse professional background eventually led me to found ACHIEVIT, a platform dedicated to providing transformative learning and development solutions for students, adults, employees, and corporates.
ACHIEVIT is more than a business—it’s the embodiment of my journey, a manifestation of the lessons learned through my own struggles and triumphs. Having experienced firsthand the challenges of personal growth and professional development, I wanted to create a space where others could find the guidance, tools, and support they need to unlock their potential.
Through ACHIEVIT, my team and I work tirelessly to design programs that cater to the unique needs of our clients, whether they are students seeking clarity and confidence, professionals aiming to advance their careers, or organizations looking to empower their workforce.
Our mission is not just to teach skills but to inspire transformation, fostering growth that goes beyond the classroom or boardroom. We believe in equipping individuals with the mindset and capabilities to thrive in an ever-evolving world.
What sets ACHIEVIT apart is not just our focus on learning and development but the ethos that drives everything we do. For me, character, values, authenticity, transparency, and ethics are non-negotiable. These principles are woven into the fabric of our organization, guiding how we interact with clients, collaborate as a team, and contribute to the communities we serve. It’s this commitment to integrity that has earned us the trust and loyalty of our clientele, a trust we work hard to honour every single day.
Looking back, I realize that every setback, every rejection, and every obstacle was preparing me for this journey. The early struggles taught me empathy; the professional challenges sharpened my skills and adaptability; and the moments of doubt fueled my determination to create something impactful. ACHIEVIT is not just a business—it’s a reflection of my belief that growth is a lifelong journey, one that requires courage, resilience, and a willingness to embrace change.
Today, I stand as a testament to the power of perseverance. From being the child who struggled to fit into traditional moulds to leading a platform that empowers others to break through their own limitations, my journey has come full circle. While the path hasn’t been easy, it has been profoundly rewarding. Every experience, whether good or bad, has shaped who I am and reinforced my belief that true success lies in lifting others as we climb.
As I continue to lead ACHIEVIT, my vision remains steadfast: to build a legacy of empowerment, where individuals and organizations alike are inspired to achieve their fullest potential. The journey is far from over, and I am excited for the road ahead, knowing that every challenge is simply another opportunity to grow, learn, and make a difference.
‘ACHIEVIT’ is such a unique name; talk us through more about it, please. Our audience would also love to know what kind of problem you are solving?
The name ACHIEVIT reflects the spirit of achievement, growth, and relentless determination. It was born out of the idea that every individual and organization has untapped potential waiting to be unlocked. Our mission is to address the critical gaps in education and professional growth by designing innovative, customized solutions.
For students and young professionals, we offer skill-building programs that are aligned with modern industry demands, helping them stay competitive in an ever-evolving job market. For companies, we deliver curated learning experiences that enhance employee productivity, foster leadership, and build resilient teams.
At its core, ACHIEVIT is about making learning relevant and engaging, moving beyond outdated methods to create impactful, transformative experiences. By focusing on both personal and professional development, we aim to empower individuals to achieve their goals and help businesses thrive in a competitive landscape. Ultimately, we are solving the problem of bridging the gap between traditional education and real-world skills, ensuring growth for all.
Despite the challenges, what keeps you going when things get tough?
What keeps me going during tough times is a deep sense of purpose and the belief that every challenge is an opportunity to grow. The vision behind ACHIEVIT—to empower individuals and organizations—reminds me why I started this journey.
Each small success, whether it’s a student gaining confidence or a corporate team transforming through our programs, serves as a powerful motivator. I’ve learned that resilience, combined with a focus on creating meaningful impact, makes even the hardest days worthwhile.
What are the three most important lessons you have learned in your life?
Resilience is key: Life will knock you down, but getting right back up defines your character.
Compassion matters: My time with differently abled peers taught me the value of empathy and understanding till date.
Adaptability is power: From changing cities to facing rejections, adapting to circumstances has been crucial for my growth.
In your opinion what are the keys to success?
Success, to me, is a harmonious blend of character traits and actionable strategies. It rests on 15 essential pillars that provide a robust foundation for personal and professional growth.
Here are the seven core pillars I believe in, which defines the essence of success:
> Persistence: The journey to success is rarely smooth. Persistence is the ability to endure setbacks, learn from failures and push forward with determination. It defines true resilience and separates those who succeed from those who give up. Challenges test your resolve and persistence ensures you stay the course.
> Continuous Learning: The world is constantly evolving and staying curious is essential. Continuous learning helps you adapt, innovate and grow. Whether it’s acquiring new skills, exploring fresh ideas or learning from mistakes, this pillar keeps you relevant and competitive in a fast-changing world.
> Confidence: Believing in your abilities builds the foundation of success. Confidence empowers you to take risks, make decisions and present your ideas convincingly. It inspires others to trust you and fuels your ability to achieve ambitious goals.
> Authenticity: Staying true to your values creates meaningful connections. Authenticity ensures your actions align with your principles, earning the respect and trust of others. In a world full of facades, being genuine is a valuable asset that fosters deeper relationships.
> Transparency: Open communication and honesty are the cornerstones of credibility. Whether in personal relationships or professional settings, transparency builds trust and ensures you operate with integrity.
> Hard Work: Consistent effort is the foundation of any achievement. Diligence helps you master skills, deliver results and overcome barriers. While talent is valuable, hard work ensures its full potential is realized.
> Smart Work: Working strategically is just as important as working hard. Smart work involves prioritizing tasks, managing time effectively and using resources efficiently to maximize output.
> Detail-Oriented: Paying attention to the finer points ensures accuracy and excellence in everything you do. It minimizes errors, builds credibility and enhances the quality of outcomes. Professionally, it reflects the commitment, personally, it shows care and thoughtfulness. This approach leads to better decision-making and stronger trust in your abilities.
> Ethical and Disciplined: Upholding ethical standards fosters trust and long-term success. Discipline ensures consistency in your efforts, helping you stay on track toward your goals. Together, they form the backbone of integrity, aligning your actions with values. This combination strengthens relationships and ensures you remain dependable.
> Being a Problem Solver: Success requires the ability to identify, analyze and resolve challenges effectively. A problem solver approaches obstacles with a positive mindset, turning them into opportunities for growth. This skill fosters innovation, adaptability, and resilience. It also builds confidence in your capacity to handle complex situations.
> Analytical Thinking: involves breaking down complex issues into manageable parts and identifying patterns or solutions. It helps in making informed decisions based on logic and evidence. This trait enhances strategic planning and risk management. Whether personal or professional, it ensures clarity and precision in your actions.
> Determination: is the inner drive that keeps you moving forward, even when faced with setbacks. It reflects resilience, grit and an unwavering commitment to your goals. This quality turns challenges into stepping stones and ensures consistent progress. Determination inspires others and reinforces a mindset of achievement.
> Innovative Thinker: Creativity and innovation open doors to unique opportunities and solutions. An innovative thinker embraces change, experiments with new ideas and challenges the status quo. This trait leads to breakthroughs that set you apart in competitive environments. It keeps you agile, adaptive and future-focused.
> Staying Focused: Focus is the ability to concentrate on your goals without being distracted by external noise. It helps prioritize tasks, maintain productivity and deliver results effectively. Staying focused requires discipline and a clear vision of what you aim to achieve. It is the foundation of sustained progress and success.
> Networking and Collaboration: are the critical pillars of success that amplify visibility and credibility. Building meaningful connections with like-minded individuals and professionals expands your access to opportunities, resources and knowledge. Collaboration fosters innovation, as diverse perspectives come together to solve problems creatively and efficiently. Networking boosts your visibility, positioning you as a thought leader and someone actively engaged in your field. It opens doors to mentorship, partnerships and learning opportunities that might otherwise remain inaccessible. Additionally, strong networks enhance your credibility, when respected peers and industry leaders recognize your work, it bolsters your reputation. A collaborative mindset also creates an ecosystem of mutual growth, where you can share expertise, build trust and achieve shared goals. In essence, networking and collaboration are powerful tools to navigate challenges, stay informed, and accelerate success by leveraging collective strengths and insights.
What advice would you give students and young professionals who want to have a successful career?
Investing in yourself is the cornerstone of a successful career, so prioritize continuous learning and personal growth. Stay curious and keep exploring as the world is evolving rapidly and those who adapt and upskill consistently stay ahead. Focus on building a versatile skill set that is both relevant to today’s demands which is future-proof for tomorrow’s opportunities.
Always remember, failure is not the end of the road at all, it is an essential part of the journey to success. Embracing challenges are the stepping stones for growth, for they shape your resilience and ability to navigate complexities. Always stay true to your values and maintain integrity in your work, as it builds trust and respect over time.
Think big, but start small to lay a strong foundation for achieving your dreams. Celebrate small wins because they matter as much as big milestones because they fuel your motivation and remind you of your progress. Success doesn’t happen overnight, it’s a marathon, not a sprint.
By pacing yourself and remaining consistent, you build sustainable momentum. Stay open to learning from mentors, peers and even failures, as each experience contributes to your growth. Focus on setting realistic goals and taking one step at a time while keeping your long-term vision in sight.
Always keep your curiosity alive, as it leads to innovation and opens doors to unexpected opportunities. Above all, maintain a positive attitude without politics at work, having healthy competition and believing in your ability to create a meaningful impact, no matter how small the start may seem.
Last but not least, what about your journey makes it satisfying/exciting?
My journey has been a tapestry woven with trials, triumphs and transformation. What makes it deeply satisfying is how it has shaped me and the impact it allows me to create in the world. The essence of my story lies not in the challenges I faced but in how I chose to rise above them, grow through them and use them as tools for building something meaningful.
From early struggles in childhood to navigating the complexities of adulthood, every setback became an opportunity to evolve. Challenges taught me resilience and failures instilled humility. Each step of the way, I discovered an inner strength I didn’t know I possessed in my earlier years.
This journey of self-discovery and self-mastery has been incredibly empowering. I have learned the value of positivity, the strength of independence, and the joy of appreciating others, a combination that has fueled my energy and drive.
What excites me most about this journey is the power of transformation—both my own and the transformations I have witnessed in others. My life experiences have not only shaped my perspective but also inspired me to create meaningful change.
These challenges became the foundation of ACHIEVIT, my mission to help individuals and organizations unlock their potential. Watching lives transform through this mission is the most fulfilling part of my work. Whether it’s a student finding the confidence to believe in themselves, a professional breaking free from self-imposed barriers or a team coming together to create something remarkable, each story reinforces the purpose of my journey.
A crucial part of my transformation was joining BNI | Business Network International, a networking platform for Business owners and Entrepreneurs that has enriched my journey in remarkable ways. It provided me with a space to connect with like-minded individuals who share similar values and aspirations.
Through BNI, I have not only grown my network but also built meaningful relationships based on trust and mutual respect. The platform has been a constant source of learning, allowing me to exchange ideas, gain fresh perspectives and refine my approach to both personal and professional challenges.
BNI has shown me the power of collaboration and community. It is more than a networking group, it is a place where genuine connections are forged and sustained. The mutual encouragement and accountability I have experienced through this network have significantly boosted my confidence and vision for ACHIEVIT. Being a part of BNI has reinforced my belief in the transformative power of connections, not just for business growth but for personal evolution as well. It has been a cornerstone in my journey, helping me grow as a person while getting better each day.
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