Career Gem2 min read
Zuber Palawkar
Author: Do Epic Sales
What you believe inspires you to do what you do, and what you do determines what you achieve.
- years in their career
- 26
- Roots · Raigad
- Jui
- Lives now · Saudi Arabia
- Riyadh
- Vinsys
- General Manager
The journey
How Zuber got here
- 2000Left Kokan to my first job in Jeddah
- 2010Moved To Riyadh for bigger opportunity in same company
- 2023Moved to Vinsys as Head of Business
Roots
Tell us about your roots: which village or town are you from, and what was growing up like?
I spent my childhood in the village of Jui and completed my collegiate studies in Mahad. Subsequently, I gained one year of professional experience in Mumbai before relocating to Jeddah for my initial international assignment.
Family
What did your family do, and how did your background shape you?
Due to financial constraints during my upbringing, my family was unable to support a pharmaceutical degree. Consequently, I pursued a standard academic path, earning a degree in Science with a concentration in Chemistry.
The dream
What did you dream of becoming when you were young?
I had aspirations of launching my own enterprise; however, my initial financial circumstances were insufficient to support the venture.
Studies
What did you study, and how did you choose your field?
I hold a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry.
My academic options were limited due to financial constraints.
The first job
How did you get your first job? Was it difficult?
My initial professional experience in Mumbai involved a sales role at a financial firm, secured through a family referral. Upon relocating to Jeddah, my uncle facilitated the submission of my resume, which led to my appointment within the company.
The hardest time
What was the biggest struggle or failure on your journey, and how did you get through it?
My first hurdle was when I tried starting a business in Mumbai with my cousin. Since I had no experience, that first attempt failed pretty hard.
The turning point
What was the turning point — the moment things started to change?
My career trajectory shifted when I was entrusted with technical support for e-learning initiatives within my organization. My foundational technical knowledge enabled me to execute my responsibilities with efficiency and commitment. This experience facilitated engagement with various domestic branches and subsequently paved the way for professional collaboration across international markets.
What made the difference
What helped you grow fastest: skills, people, moving abroad, or something else?
My aptitude for rapid learning, coupled with a strong work ethic and expertise in cultivating professional relationships, has been instrumental in shaping my career trajectory.
The risk that paid off
What was a career risk you took that paid off?
I proactively embraced diverse roles across various departments, which facilitated my professional progression and enabled consistent career advancement every one to two years.
Proudest moment
What achievement are you most proud of?
Writing my book and launching Kokani Connect was a really proud moment for me.
A day in the life
What does a normal day look like for you now?
I follow my passion. I work a corporate job during the day and spend my evenings on the Kokani Connect initiative, where I help Kokani youth grow and succeed. Sometimes, I also make YouTube and Instagram reels to share career advice and awareness.
Skills that matter
Which skills matter most in your field today?
Artificial intelligence, communication proficiency, and leadership capabilities are currently the most highly sought-after skill sets.
How to stand out
What should a student do in college to stand out in your field?
Maintain a proactive mindset and prioritize your ongoing personal and professional development.
A stronger community
How can the Kokani community grow stronger together?
The Kokani community should unite at a unified platform to foster mutual support in business, facilitate the professional development of our youth, and prioritize investment in continuous learning.
Giving back
Anything you would like to give back — mentoring, internships, guidance?
I would like to mentor Kokani youth for their career development.
Message for Kokani youth
Keep learning. Don't look for overnight success. Be patient and keep working toward your goals.
— Zuber Palawkar
Quick-fire
Getting to know Zuber
- Favourite Kokani food?
- Ghawne, Sandan, and Wada Pav
- A book or person that changed your thinking?
- How To Win Friends And Influence People, By Dale Carnegie
- One word for Kokan?
- My Heart