Divesh Bathija, a graduate in banking and insurance finally found his dream job in Dinasim, as a founder. This Mumbai based education startup is different from the regular businesses that you come across. Divesh is a young entrepreneur who realized that mathematics was either a phobia or a way to score better but rarely did he see students fond of it. He calls arithmetic a misunderstood subject and works on making the true concept known to students.
Dinasim engages students with fun activities and games to make mathematics easy and familiar to all. There is a patented curriculum with which Divesh and his team conducts workshop in schools and till now it has coved 10+ schools of Mumbai giving 90% results. The venture was started in 2012 and is growing each day with constant endeavor and determination. Initially it was nearly impossible to convince schools but having conducted many workshops and delivered benchmark results, Dinasim has earned acceptance as an education brand. How was it made possible and what challenges Dinasim faced, we asked Divesh in an interview.
What inspired you to start your Business?
When I was studying in London, I realized the shortcomings of the education system and was hoping to introduce a similar platform for students in India where learning could be explored rather than a mere competition tool.
What is your life mantra?
Innovation is a passion, not an art.
What was the most challenging part of your journey till now?
In every start up I believe there are several challenges, however for me it was a major task to break the old thought process of teaching and learning. Creating awareness was the major challenge.
How did you overcome those challenges?
Bringing in a change in thought processes of parents did seem a challenge initially, but after we showcased a change in their children’s attitude, they started realizing the importance for such a shift in their thought process.
According to you, what are the three qualities an individual must have to achieve success?
Passion, Risk Bearing appetite and lastly the most important the foresight of being in business with a long term vision.
How do you protect yourself from the problem of “Brain Drain” while talking about attrition?
Every start up faces a tough challenge to avoid the problem of brain drain, however we are no exception for the same, but as years pass by things have been seeming to get stable. Initial year was tough.
What are your top three getaway destinations ?
- Goa
- Himachal Pradesh
- Any place with historic importance
As an entrepreneur, what advice would you like to share with emerging startups?
The only word that should matter to you is GROWTH, if you ever see a downward trend, Consider it that you have taken a few steps behind to take a higher leap
If you get a chance to start your career again what would you do differently this time?
I would love to be a film Maker.
Which online tools and services do you use the most and would like to recommend as well?
We have used very limited online tools, except for the basic SEO tools, which have seemed quite beneficial for us so far.
Share any one habit which you think makes you more productive.
The passion to put efforts more than expected.
Share any one habit which you wish to change in yourself.
I would like to change my work culture, as once I take a project, it just doesn’t separate from me.
Which one mobile app would you recommend?
Goibibo.com (Quite helpful for frequent travelers)
Answer in less than 50 words
Set your goals to reach the stars, you will atleast see yourself landing safely on the moon.
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One tip to be a good learner:
Learn to seek advice in a positive manner.
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One most important lesson that you have learnt till now:
Keep waiting for an ideal Idea for a start up, the correct time comes only when you are willing to take the plunge.
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One most important lesson that you have learnt till now:
You and only you can change your own fortunes, the process might get delayed but it has to happen, if efforts are sincere.
If you get an opportunity to start a new venture what will it be?
I would like to start a New age school, where children explore learning beyond classrooms. Every child adores the feeling to learn in a practical manner, and we wish to give this experience to each and every child.
What are your plans for next 3 years?
Explore new Markets, lay a strong foundation in UAE and other Asian Markets.
Share a quote that inspires you the most.
When there is a will- there has to be a way.
