Only 17 per cent of startups globally have a female founder, so if you’re considering starting a company, take the leap!

In a world where the startup economy is growing evermore important, there is a question of who will win in this rat race to the top. We all live in an illusionistic world where people believe in what they see and choosing the safe route is not being selfish but rather trendy.

This implies not just for people who want to apply to big corporations for job security, but also applies for the creators of new companies who began their companies at the door steps of their homes.

You might be wondering why I am saying all this. The reason is very simple: I am a female and I want my voice to be heard. I want to dream big and achieve great heights.

But can I?

Winners do things differently

I was born and raised between Saudi Arabia and India, two countries that are not famous for feminism. And yet, I have managed to develop a sense empowerment within myself.

Now, as a business student in Singapore, I am finding myself surrounded by female entrepreneurs who not only inspire me but also provide a source of motivation.

Unfortunately, only 17 per cent of the world start-ups have a female founder. This suggests that women who want to start something not only face the stereotypical views from the society but also challenges within the “forward looking” industry.

Any women trying to start her company is asked about instability, safety and security whereas men are asked about – prosperity, growth and goals.

But anecdotally it feels as if the environment is changing. The advent of technology has led to competition and Women are adapting, adjusting and attacking every obstacle on their way to the top of the class.

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I am a true believer in the quote, “Winners don’t do different things, but they do things differently”. Women are no less than winners.

Women often approach the same problem from a different angle than their male counterpart, and this is why promoting this kind of empowerment and diversity is crucial to the ecosystem.

Learning from real-life examples

As with any entrepreneur, I am inspired by the people who came before. Here are a few examples.

Emily Weiss, who started a brand called Glossier; which is a successful female-started start-up in 2018 which raised 24 million dollars in funding.

Another personal favourite is Falguni Nayyar who started an online makeup website Nykka in India.

Finally Richa Kar who brought sexiness of Victoria’s Secret to India for affordable prices. She began an online lingerie brand which is currently one of the biggest online shopping portal for women in India.

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If you are a woman reading this and have a spark of idea down your head, don’t overthink it. If the ladies I just mentioned can find success, then why can’t you? Speak up and make the world hear you.

What matters most about an idea is the ability to execute it. No other aspect should stop you from thinking big and bold.

You should be driven to be part of this huge ecosystem that folds itself as a cloud of ideas and innovations. As we all know that is where all the startups began in the first place.

I work on a daily basis contacting different startups and engaging with them. I can see the passion and commitment these people have to start a new venture of theirs lives. If you are out there, male or female, and have that same passion, don’t stop yourself whatsoever.

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