Growing up in Madras, life followed a traditional trajectory until a cancer diagnosis at 25 transformed everything. During recovery, an unexpected clarity emerged, laying the foundation for a future in entrepreneurship.
A serendipitous trip to the Middle East led to a partnership that culminated in the opening of a business office in India in 2007. This marked the start of a nearly two-decade-long entrepreneurial journey.
A serendipitous trip to the Middle East led to a partnership that culminated in the opening of a business office in India in 2007. This marked the start of a nearly two-decade-long entrepreneurial journey.
The disciplined ethos of a lawyer father and mentorship in business consulting instilled values of humility, long-term vision, and discipline.
Background: From Roots to Routes
Influences
case study
Continental Shift – An Indian Entrepreneur’s Journey to Portugal
In 2007, the business thrived offering AV System Integration to MNCs. But internal disagreements and the 2008 global financial crisis led to financial strain and eventual dissolution of the partnership in 2012—a low point in the founder’s career.
By 2015, client relationships and revenue rebounded, validating a leadership philosophy grounded in people and patience.
Facing adversity: The 2008 Financial Crisis
Lesson Learned: Trust Your Intuition
Acquiring full control of the company nearly led to collapse. It became clear that ignoring one’s inner voice could jeopardise everything. Rebuilding began with assembling a resilient and talented team that shared a unified vision.
Early Challenges and Pivotal Lessons
- Inspired by Kipling’s “If,” the entrepreneur embraces the impermanence of triumph and disaster alike.
- CrossFit and Yoga provide mental discipline, mirroring the endurance and adaptability required in business.
- Discipline: Seen as self-respect in action.
- Sleep: A consistent 9 PM - 5:30 AM routine supports mental clarity
- Yoga: Heals body and mind, aiding productivity
“Resurrection lies not merely in acquiring talent but in its precise placement.”
The Power of Right Fit
STRATEGIC INSIGHT
Leadership Philosophy and Resilience
Staying Grounded Through Turbulence
If Starting Over…
reflection & wisdom
Greater self-trust would have prevented early missteps. Deference to older partners over personal intuition proved costly.
Inspired by Viktor Frankl’s philosophy, the entrepreneur believes in pausing before reacting, giving time and space for clarity.
Handling Setbacks
Daily Habits for Success
A key turning point came in 2018 when the finance head, previously underutilised, proposed a manufacturing vision. His detailed project report laid the groundwork for SBCT Industries, demonstrating that excellence flourishes when aligned with purpose.
True balance often eludes those building something exceptional. Long hours and total commitment are accepted as necessary sacrifices during foundational years.
The entrepreneur sought reinvention, innovation, and personal growth. Modern business flexibility allowed for a move unrestrained by location.
Financial discipline, purpose-driven leadership, and a compelling value proposition are seen as non-negotiables for lasting ventures.
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
“Portugal is not just a home—it’s a launchpad.”
work life balance reality check
Global Shift: Moving to Portugal
Motivation for Emigration
Why Portugal
After exploring Spain, Malta, and Greece, Portugal stood out for its:
- Balance of soulful culture and business potential
- Vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem
- Strategic access to European and African markets
- Endurance builds lasting success; impatience does not.
- Mastery of the ordinary reveals the extraordinary.
- A united team is central to triumph.
- Success must be anchored by humility.
Navigating business abroad requires localised insights—from regulatory knowledge to cultural fluency.
- Boasts a dynamic startup ecosystem and talent pool
- Supported by university-industry collaboration and government initiatives
- Strategically bridges EU and African markets
"Partnerships that prioritise purpose as much as pragmatism are essential."
World Talents & Business Migration Support
Portugal: a land of potential
FINAL REFLECTIONS & FUTURE VISION
A five year look ahead
Passion, purpose, and long-term vision must drive entrepreneurship. Avoid purely transactional ventures. Build legacies, not just profits.
A triangular presence across:
With Portugal as a serene home base for global collaboration and meaningful impact.
- EU
- Africa
- Indian Subcontinent
With Portugal as a serene home base for global collaboration and meaningful impact.
looking ahead
- Contribute: Build a resilient business and integrate into Portuguese society
- Gain: Grow as a leader and individual through new challenges and friendships
Choosing the Global Talent Portugal Program
The Value of a Local Partner
High Potential Sectors
What He Hopes to Give & Receive
What he hope to bring to the Portuguese economy
Advice for others
- Deep entrepreneurial resilience
- Vision for building long-lasting enterprises
- Desire to create businesses that endure beyond their founder
- AgTech and sustainable agriculture
- Clean energy and energy transition technologies
- Next-gen food production systems for a growing population
Initial conversations with David and Tim at World Talents revealed a rare authenticity. The partnership was not transactional, but deeply rooted in mutual understanding and aligned vision.