Perseverance and continuous learning are just as important for growing as a leader.
These two key leadership traits have played an instrumental role in the growth and development of Aniruddh Kolekar, who worked his way up from being an automation engineer to an entrepreneur in an energy efficiency company.
Mr Kolekar said he was born and brought up in a beautiful coastal town in the state of Maharashtra in India.
He said his professional life has been both a fantastic journey and an amazing experience.
“From an automation engineer looking after factory assets, then to a product development professional to a senior executive in the energy business, to being an entrepreneur in an energy efficiency company.
“There has always been a new challenge or a new product development, new market creation and also ending a product life cycle at the right time.”
Mr Kolekar said the growth has been a pleasant experience, personally and professionally.
“Some of the important lessons I have learned in life are the value of perseverance, the importance of continuous learning and the need to stay adaptable in a rapidly changing world.
“Additionally, I have learned that building strong relationships and maintaining a positive attitude can significantly impact personal and professional success.”
Mr Kolekar said another very important lesson he’s learned was valuing time and its essence in life.
“Also, empathy and gratitude may not always give you monetary returns, but they are the most important virtues to become the person you want to be. I’ve learned to always stay humble and curious.”
Mr Kolekar came to Fiji in 2007 when a job opportunity with a prominent group of companies prompted him to start his career in Fiji.
“I have grown to love Fiji.
“I made a decision to make Fiji my home in the very early years of my arrival here. Apart from its natural beauty, the warmth of the people and its vibrant culture, Fiji is a wonderful place to live and work.
“The community’s support and the business opportunities here have been very encouraging. The most creative and socially active part of my life I have spent in Fiji, so she will always remain close to my heart.”
Mr Kolekar said he has always searched for good business opportunities since he started his career.
“However, I realised that to get to that point, there is a journey in which we learn, unlearn and relearn.
“I have always been inclined towards entrepreneurship. The idea of creating something valuable and contributing to a good solution through business ventures has always been a driving force for me.”
Mr Kolekar said his future goals include expanding his existing business to become a leading name in sustainable solutions in energy efficiency in the Pacific Region.
“I also aim to mentor young entrepreneurs and contribute to Fiji’s economic development and the Pacific region we operate in.”
He said what motivates him daily is the desire to make a positive impact through his work, the support of his family and the drive to achieve personal and professional excellence.
“Seeing the results of hard work and innovation in real-world applications keeps me inspired.
“My family back in India is always supportive of me and they have also fallen in love with Fiji because we regularly talk and share about life here, and over so many years they have appreciated the place and life here.”
Mr Kolekar believes that continuous learning and staying adaptable are key to success.
“I am committed to not only growing my business but also contributing to the community and fostering sustainable development. I look forward to new challenges and opportunities that the future holds.”
