Interview with Dr. Mohammed Zoheb Hossain: A Journey of Entrepreneurship and Social Service
Meet Dr. Mohammad Zoheb Hossain, a dynamic entrepreneur hailing from the vibrant city of Kolkata. Driven by a relentless ambition to achieve new heights in his chosen field, he is not only a distinguished philanthropist but also a visionary businessman. With a keen eye for opportunities and a commitment to excellence.
Q: Can you share a bit about your background and upbringing in Kolkata?
A: I was born and raised in Kolkata, where my father worked for the government, and my mother managed our home. Growing up, I always felt a strong inclination towards entrepreneurship, a desire to create something meaningful.
Q: How did your journey into entrepreneurship begin?
A: After completing my PGDBA in 2009, I joined Kidderpore Child’s World School as a full-time secretary. The school, initially a Kindergarten, was started by my mother in 2006. I saw potential beyond its humble beginnings and worked to expand it, eventually developing it into a school covering Std X with over 1000 students.
Q: What inspired your passion for social development and upliftment?
A: I believe in the philosophy of “first do, then say.” My upbringing instilled in me a sense of responsibility towards society. I wanted to contribute to social development in every possible way. This passion drove me to enhance and grow the school, providing quality education to a larger community.
Q: How do you balance your business endeavors with your hobbies and interests?
A: I’m a firm believer in work-life balance. While running the school is my primary focus, I make sure to indulge in my hobbies—travelling, driving, and meeting new people. These activities not only refresh my mind but also inspire new ideas that I can bring back to my work.
Q: What is your aim in your field of business?
A: My ultimate aim is to achieve greater heights in my field. I want to continue expanding the school and providing quality education. Entrepreneurship, to me, is not just about profit but also about making a positive impact on society through education.
Q: How has your family background influenced your career choices?
A: My father’s dedication as a government employee and my mother’s entrepreneurial spirit have significantly influenced my career choices. They instilled in me the values of hard work, dedication, and a desire to contribute positively to society.
Q: Can you share a key principle or motto that guides your professional life?
A: “First do, then say” is a motto I live by. It emphasizes the importance of taking action and making a tangible impact rather than just talking about it. This principle has guided my approach to entrepreneurship and social service.
Q: As we’ve heard about your involvement in other business ventures. Can you tell us more about Bismillah Enterprise and Pinnacle Suppliers, and how you balance your roles in these diverse fields?
A: Indeed, I am actively engaged in entrepreneurship. Bismillah Enterprise & Pinnacle Suppliers caters. Balancing my responsibilities various businesses involves effective time management and a dedicated team in each domain. Both fields complement each other, as the discipline contribute to the smooth operations of my businesses, and vice versa. It’s a dynamic juggling act, but I find fulfilment in the diverse challenges each facet of my professional life presents.
Q: What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs, especially those with a focus on social impact?
A: Be persistent, believe in your ideas, and don’t be afraid to take risks. Success often comes to those who are willing to go beyond the conventional and make a positive impact on society. Balancing profit with social responsibility is key to long-term success.
Q: Can you share a memorable experience or challenge you faced while developing Kidderpore Child’s World School?
A: One memorable experience was witnessing the growth of the school from its early days. However, challenges were part of the journey. Adapting to the evolving education landscape and ensuring the well-being of both students and staff were significant challenges. Overcoming these hurdles strengthened my commitment to the school’s mission.
Q: How do you foster innovation and creativity within the school environment?
A: Innovation and creativity are crucial in education. We encourage a dynamic learning environment by introducing interactive teaching methods, technology integration, and extracurricular activities. This approach not only keeps students engaged but also nurtures their creativity and critical thinking skills.
Q: In your opinion, what role does education play in social development?
A: Education is the cornerstone of social development. It empowers individuals, breaking the cycle of poverty, and contributes to the overall progress of society. By providing quality education, we are shaping future leaders and contributing to the betterment of our community.
Q: How do you stay motivated and overcome challenges in your entrepreneurial journey?
A: Motivation comes from a strong sense of purpose. Knowing that our efforts at the school positively impact the lives of students and contribute to society keeps me motivated. Challenges are opportunities to learn and grow; I approach them with a positive mindset and a determination to find solutions.
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Q: Can you share a bit about your hobbies and how they complement your professional life?
A: Travelling, driving, and meeting new people are not just hobbies for me; they are sources of inspiration. Travelling exposes me to diverse cultures and perspectives, driving allows me to clear my mind, and meeting new people brings fresh ideas. These experiences often find their way into my approach to running the school and managing my business.
Q: How do you envision the future of Kidderpore Child’s World School?
A: The future of the school is bright. We aim to continually enhance the quality of education, embrace technological advancements, and expand our reach to serve more students. I envision Kidderpore Child’s World School becoming a hub of innovation and a model for holistic education in the region.
Q: What societal issues are you particularly passionate about addressing through your work?
A: I am passionate about addressing issues related to education inequality. Every child deserves access to quality education, regardless of their background. Through the school, I aim to contribute towards narrowing the gap and creating a more equitable society.
Q: How has your journey in entrepreneurship shaped your perspective on success?
A: Success, for me, is not just about personal achievements. It is about the positive impact we make on the lives of others. Entrepreneurship has taught me that true success is a collective effort—building a successful business while contributing to the welfare of the community.
Q: Is there a specific achievement in your career that you are particularly proud of?
A: One achievement that stands out is the transformation of Kidderpore Child’s World School from a small kindergarten to a full-fledged institution serving over 1000 students. This journey represents not just personal success but the success of a vision for quality education and social impact.
Dr. Mohammed Zoheb Hossain’s journey is a testament to the power of entrepreneurship driven by a commitment to social development. His story serves as an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs aiming to make a positive impact in their communities.
Q: How do you ensure a sense of community and inclusivity within Kidderpore Child’s World School?
A: Building a sense of community and inclusivity is essential for the school’s environment. We actively involve parents in the education process through regular meetings and events. Additionally, we promote diversity and inclusivity by celebrating different cultural events, fostering a sense of unity among students from various backgrounds.
Q: As someone deeply involved in education, how do you view the role of technology in shaping the future of learning?
A: Technology is a powerful tool that can revolutionize education. We integrate technology into our teaching methods to make learning more interactive and accessible. This not only prepares students for the digital age but also opens up new avenues for innovative and personalized learning experiences.
Q: What strategies do you employ to keep the staff motivated and aligned with the school’s mission?
A: Staff motivation is crucial for the success of any educational institution. We invest in professional development opportunities, recognize and appreciate their efforts, and create a positive work culture. By aligning the staff with the school’s mission, we ensure a collective commitment to providing the best possible education for our students.
Q: How do you handle the evolving challenges in the education sector, especially considering recent global changes?
A: The education sector is dynamic, and staying adaptable is key. We constantly assess and update our curriculum to meet evolving needs. Recent global changes have emphasized the importance of flexibility, and we have embraced digital learning tools to ensure uninterrupted education, even in challenging times.
Q: Can you share an anecdote that highlights the impact of the school on a student’s life?
A: One touching moment was when a student who initially struggled academically not only improved significantly but also developed leadership skills through extracurricular activities. Seeing the transformation in this student’s confidence and abilities reinforced the belief that education goes beyond textbooks; it shapes character and empowers individuals.
Q: How do you manage to juggle the responsibilities of entrepreneurship, family, and personal interests?
A: Balancing multiple responsibilities is a challenge, but effective time management is key. I prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance, delegate responsibilities where possible, and make sure to set aside dedicated time for family and personal interests. This helps maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Q: In your pursuit of achieving more heights in your field, what future goals do you have for Kidderpore Child’s World School?
A: The future goals for Kidderpore Child’s World School include further expanding our infrastructure, introducing advanced educational technologies, and establishing collaborations with other educational institutions. I aspire for the school to become a hub for holistic education, producing well-rounded individuals ready to face the challenges of the future.
Q: How do you stay connected with the local community and involve them in the school’s initiatives?
A: Community engagement is crucial for the school’s success. We organize regular community events, workshops, and outreach programs. By actively involving the local community, we build trust, gather valuable feedback, and ensure that our initiatives align with the needs and aspirations of the people we serve.
Q: What role do you believe mentorship plays in the development of aspiring entrepreneurs?
A: Mentorship is a cornerstone for personal and professional growth. I’ve been fortunate to have mentors who guided me in my entrepreneurial journey. Aspiring entrepreneurs can benefit greatly from the wisdom and experience of mentors who provide valuable insights, share lessons learned, and offer support during challenging times.
Q: How do you give back to the community beyond the school’s educational initiatives?
A: Giving back to the community is a core value. We actively participate in local community service projects, support charitable causes, and collaborate with other businesses to address community needs. Whether it’s organizing health camps or contributing to environmental initiatives, we believe in being an active and responsible member of the community.
Q: Can you share a bit about the values you instill in the students at Kidderpore Child’s World School?
A: Beyond academic excellence, we emphasize values such as empathy, integrity, and social responsibility. We encourage students to participate in community service projects, fostering a sense of compassion and a commitment to making a positive impact. These values are integral to shaping not just successful students but responsible and compassionate individuals.
Q: What lessons have you personally learned from both successes and failures in your entrepreneurial journey?
A: Both successes and failures are valuable teachers. Successes reinforce the importance of persistence and vision, while failures offer opportunities for reflection and growth. I’ve learned that resilience is crucial in entrepreneurship, and every setback is a stepping stone towards greater achievements.
Q: How do you promote a culture of continuous learning within the school for both students and staff?
A: A culture of continuous learning is vital for staying relevant in the ever-evolving education landscape. We encourage professional development opportunities for our staff, including workshops, seminars, and training programs. For students, we foster a love for learning by incorporating innovative teaching methods and providing exposure to diverse subjects.
Q: As someone passionate about meeting new people, how does networking contribute to your professional growth?
A: Networking is a powerful tool for personal and professional development. Meeting new people exposes me to different perspectives, ideas, and opportunities. Networking has played a crucial role in the growth of the school, helping establish partnerships, collaborations, and friendships that contribute to the overall success of our educational initiatives.
Q: What advice would you offer to young entrepreneurs who aspire to make a positive impact in their communities?
A: My advice to young entrepreneurs is to be bold in pursuing their vision and to approach business with a purpose beyond profit. Understand the needs of your community, engage with stakeholders, and seek sustainable solutions. Making a positive impact requires dedication, innovation, and a genuine commitment to the well-being of the community you serve.
Q: In your opinion, what qualities make a successful entrepreneur in today’s dynamic business environment?
A: Adaptability, resilience, and a willingness to embrace change are crucial qualities for success in today’s dynamic business environment. Successful entrepreneurs also possess strong leadership skills, a commitment to ethical practices, and a vision that goes beyond immediate gains to contribute positively to society.
Dr. Mohammed Zoheb Hossain’s journey unfolds as a tapestry of resilience, commitment, and a profound dedication to both entrepreneurship and social impact. His insights provide a roadmap for aspiring entrepreneurs, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning, community engagement, and a values-driven approach to business.
