Sankalpa Hegde never imagined that a high school entrepreneurship class would change the trajectory of her life. As a shy teenager with a fear of public speaking, Sankalpa found her voice and passion through the Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship (NFTE) program. Now, as a NFTE alumna and Summer Fellow in the Mid-Atlantic region, she’s ready to inspire the next generation of young entrepreneurs!
“Six-year-old me would never have dreamed of presenting her skincare line to a panel of 100 industry professionals,” Sankalpa reflects. “But there I was, standing confidently with my future in my arms, ready to take on the business world, all because of NFTE.”
Sankalpa’s journey from a shy student to a confident entrepreneur is nothing short of inspiring. Her business, “DesiRoots,” aims to address the lack of South Asian representation in the beauty industry. This innovative skincare line combines modern technology with traditional Ayurvedic practices, creating a bridge between cultures and filling a gap in the market.
“I was passionate about utilizing the skincare industry and Ayurvedic practices as a vehicle of representation for the South Asian community,” Sankalpa explains. “Growing up, I felt that the cosmetic industry failed to represent people like me, with skin tones that did not match the American beauty standards.”
Now, as a Summer Fellow, Sankalpa is eager to pay it forward. “I am looking forward to giving back and becoming a mentor to young entrepreneurs,” she says. “I remember when I was in the same shoes as them a few years ago. I had no idea what industry I wanted to pursue or what I was passionate about.”
As Sankalpa embarks on her 8-week fellowship, she channels the spirit of her fictional mentor, Wonder Woman. “She’s a female leader who inspires people around her,” Sankalpa explains, drawing parallels between the superhero’s courage and her own aspirations to empower young entrepreneurs.
Her advice to future NFTE students? “Say yes to every opportunity possible,” Sankalpa urges. “Embrace every opportunity, whether participating in business competitions or attending guest speaker sessions or workshops. These experiences will help you gain valuable insights for the future and develop essential skills for the real world.”
With her passion for empowering others, Sankalpa Hedge is poised to make a lasting impact as a NFTE Summer Fellow and beyond!