‘Hard work is the key to success’ – we are all very well acquainted with the proverb, and successful entrepreneurs live proof of that. Whatever you dream and whatever you want, there is only one thing you can do- that is to work hard. Mr. Shahazada Kaky is a person who believed in his dreams and worked hard for it. So, he was rewarded for his patience and determination. It was a great honor for me to get to know him and his journey so closely. This is for all the entrepreneurs out there- work hard, and you will succeed.
Hope you are doing well. Could you kindly give a brief insight into how the entrepreneurship journey was like?
My life as an entrepreneur started back in 2009. I used to sell different things, from accessories to clothes that are famous in the Chittagong region. I continued doing these small businesses for about two and a half years. Then I started a restaurant business with my partner Tareque Hossain. However, after his unfortunate demise, we could not continue. I also worked on some construction projects for a while. All of these helped me and made me confident enough to start a venture like ParcelX.
Tell us a bit about ParcelX? What influenced you for this venture?
I was doing some businesses here and there till this March of 2020, when the pandemic started. My family left for home, and I had to stay alone. So, I had to deliver food from outside. I started missing homemade food during the pandemic as I got tired of eating food from other places. It got me thinking about how I could get the taste of homemade food. In the pandemic, we have now many women turned their amazing cooking skills into a profession; many women entrepreneurs shone out in this pandemic with their unique and precious skills. So, I thought, why not try to help them by delivering their homemade products. I started working with this idea in June of 2020, and now I am working with 200 women entrepreneurs. ParcelX is restricted to delivering homemade food; rather, we are working with several ventures selling women-oriented clothes and cosmetics.
Even though our primary and main target group is women entrepreneurs, we are also working with other restaurants and organizations to help them deliver their products. ParcelX is working with the goal to gain the trust of buyers and sellers through fast and smooth delivery of products. ParcelX was introduced at a time when online shopping became the new normal. They took this as a golden opportunity and ventured on to create something new. The app of ParcelX is ready to be launched on 16 December 2020.
What was the impact of the pandemic?
Interestingly enough, since we have come to a new normal era, as we are now more used to online shopping, the pandemic was a good thing for me and my business. Fortunately, enough the pandemic opened new doors of opportunities, and I recognized those opportunities. My business works proceeded very smoothly throughout this pandemic. Therefore, I would say the pandemic has had a positive impact.
What challenges did you face for ParcelX?
One big challenge for me was the delivery men. As they are freelancers, they did not have that much commitment. Often, they failed to fulfill their commitments.
What was your biggest strength?
I believe my hard work and persistence are my biggest strengths. Truthfully speaking, it was a mixture of my immense hard work as well as a bit of luck too. I say this because I never had to face any major financial or investment issues. I am lucky that the first investor I found was the father of one of my riders. He inspired and encouraged me too. However, I believe if one works hard enough, their luck will obviously favor them.
Where do you see yourself in the future?
There is honestly no limit to dreaming. I want this business to establish and expand this business to foreign grounds like the UAE (United Arab Emirates) and Qatar.
Is there any role model for you who has inspired your journey till now?
My late partner Mr. Tareque Hossain has been my idol for life. He as inspired me a lot throughout my journey. He is my role model.
Lastly, what advice would you like to give to the aspiring entrepreneur?
In simple words, hard work and networking. If one works hard day and night, gives their best for their dreams, and as long as they can form some amazing networks, luck must favor them and surely succeed.
