At BrilliantRead Media, we always strive to bring meaningful and powerful stories from India and around the world to empower and motivate our growing community. As part of this endeavour, we invited Utsav Kamboj for an exclusive interview with us. She is an Entrepreneur, Leader, Architect, Coach, Educator, Urban Designer, Content Creator, Consultant, Influencer and Change Enabler. She is the Founder and CEO at Archea. Let’s learn more about her incredible journey, her background, and her advice for our growing community!
Excerpts from our exclusive interview with Utsav:
We are aware of your contribution to the ecosystem, talk us through your background and your journey as a women entrepreneur, please;
I am an Architect and urban Designer by profession wearing lots of hats otherwise – Architect and partner at Upscale Architects & Educator at Archea. With the intent to create a space that truly belongs, we try to leave the same impact on our clients lives through our designs at Upscale Headquarters.
Spatial design has always left an indelible mark on me since I can remember. After completing my bachelor’s degree in Architecture, I found my passion gravitating towards urban large-scale designs. This led me to pursue a Master’s in Urban Design and Planning, where I honed my skills and gained a deeper understanding of the field.
During my internships, I noticed a significant gap between what was being taught in architecture schools and the actual practices within the industry.
This lack of alignment sparked a desire within me to bridge this gap and make education more relevant and connected to real-world applications.
It all began with a simple website domain, a platform to share my insights and experiences. And this was the birth of Archea.”
From that point forward, I realized that empowering others with knowledge and insights was my true calling. I embarked on my journey as a woman entrepreneur, determined to fill the void I had identified.
Over time, this vision evolved into a comprehensive platform that educates and fosters a strong community of like-minded individuals striving for excellence in architecture and interior design.
In an industry where gender norms can sometimes present challenges, I was determined to break through those barriers and carve my path as an entrepreneur.
What attracts you towards entrepreneurship instead of a corporate career?
I was drawn to entrepreneurship due to a strong desire to initiate something from the ground up, to create a venture that’s uniquely my own. The idea of crafting my own path and having a hand in shaping the future of design is what truly resonated with me.
Being part of nurturing the next generation of designers is incredibly fulfilling. While many may not see the sleepless nights, relentless perseverance, and untiring effort that go into every step, the journey is a gratifying one.”
The evolution of my venture, starting with a simple website and growing into a thriving community of over 100k+ aspiring designers through workshops, courses, offline events, brings immense joy and the reassurance that the dedication is absolutely worth it.
‘Archea’ 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?
Archea was my vision, born from the fusion of Architecture and Idea. I wanted a name that resonates with architects and interior designers. It’s a personal commitment to create a nurturing space for architects, to support and guide them on their journey, so they never feel alone.
What does your company specialize in?
Archea, an e-learning platform, specializes in shaping the designers of tomorrow through a comprehensive and practical approach. We bring industry experts as mentors to provide practical insights, addressing the gap between theoretical teachings and real-world applications.
Bridging the divide between on-site realities and traditional classroom instruction is the key focus.”
Additionally, we emphasize emerging technologies like the Metaverse, offering foundational training that opens up fresh career avenues for architects and interior designers, going beyond the conventional realm of design practice.
Moreover, I organize offline business meetups, enabling designers to connect, learn, and grow collectively. Networking and community engagement are vital in the design industry, and these meetups play a significant role in facilitating these connections. All in all, I aspire to empower the designers of tomorrow, one course at a time.
What are some of the strategies that you believe have helped you grow as a person?
Perseverance has been a cornerstone for my personal growth. No matter the challenges, I’ve developed the resilience to rise above and continue growing.
Practicing gratitude has been transformative. It’s not merely an emotion; it’s a way of life. And once I started being grateful for the good things and bad, big things and small, my successes and my failures, I was constantly blissful and detached from the tangible world.
Lastly, cultivating a strong mindset has been pivotal. Once I set my mind on a goal, I ensure it is accomplished with unwavering determination.
In your opinion, what are the keys to success?
Success, from my perspective, is built upon a few fundamental principles:
> Recognizing and playing to your strengths, even if it takes time to fully develop them. Find what you excel at and let it guide your journey.
> Have clarity in your aspirations and niche. Know where you want to go and specialize in areas that align with your passions. Put your best foot forward.
> Avoid comparing your path to others. Everyone’s journey is unique, and measuring your progress against theirs can be misleading.
> Pick your own trail. Don’t follow trends or paths just because they’re popular. Make decisions driven by your own determination and genuine interest.
What advice would you give students and young professionals who want to have a successful career?
Build a solid foundation for yourself. Develop a strong set of personal values, professional ethics, and a distinctive style. This will be your compass as you navigate your career path.
Take up projects that challenge you, even if they seem intimidating. Don’t be worried about not having enough experience and explore design possibilities with excitement.
Dedicate your full effort to each project you undertake. Client referrals and recommendations are invaluable assets that can shape your career journey significantly.
Avoid falling into the pressure of rapid financial gains. Don’t rush through your career; success comes with dedication and time. Trust that everything will fall into place in due course.
Allow yourself to take breaks when necessary. Since childhood we have learned ‘life is a race’, and we keep running in a direction we aren’t sure of. Amid life’s constant hustle, it’s crucial to pause and reflect on your progress.
Last but not least, what are the three most important lessons you have learned in your life?
– I love the phrase “Rise from the ashes”. But before you can rise from the ashes, you must be burned to ashes and that is painful. You need to go through your lowest point, pull yourself out – that’s what sets you apart.
– If things go wrong today, there is always a tomorrow. A new day brings new opportunities and different perspectives.
– If something happens your way, it’s good, if it doesn’t – it’s even better! If after putting in all the hard work, something isn’t working out for you, remember that a higher power is protecting you, and something better is out there for you.
BrilliantRead is committed to bringing stories from the startup ecosystem, stories that reshape our perspective, add value to our community and be a constant source of motivation not just for our community but also for the whole ecosystem of entrepreneurs and aspiring individuals.
Note: If you have a similar story to share with our audience and would like to be featured on our online magazine, then please write to us at [email protected], we will review your story and extend an invitation to feature if it is worth publishing.
