Young Entrepreneur: Seshadri Nithyananthan

Seshadri Nithyananthan graduated from the Academy of Design (AOD) with a BA (Hons) degree in fashion. Keen to make a name for herself as a designer she launched her own label ‘Su Re’ in October 2013. Her signature style is unconventional, quirky fun clothing with bold colours and prints. She is also known to incorporate local crafts and batik into some of her creations. Seshadri was also one of the few young designers who showcased her collection at the Colombo Fashion Week 2014 Bright Sparks segment. Seshadri relates her experience in setting up her own label.

What is the single most important reason for your success?
My perseverance and the endless support of my parents.

How did you come up with this idea?
I couldn’t find the kind of clothing I wanted to wear in the local market, so I decided to create the clothing myself.

How do you balance work, life and friends?
I’ve always been pretty good at time management so it hasn’t been a problem so far.

What were your most difficult obstacles when starting your business?
 Initial investment and finding good manufacturers, also finding the right customer.

Any advice for young people who don’t have the courage to start up their business?
Don’t just keep thinking about starting you business. You have to start somewhere so take the risk and work hard at achieving your dream!

How old were you when you started your business?
23.

When did you first get the idea for your business and what did you do towards making it a reality?
I had the idea when I was doing my degree in Fashion, so after I graduated I put together a business plan, and then launched my brand.

If you could add a famous entrepreneur to your team who would it be and why?
Probably Mark Zuckerberg.

How did you get the capital to start up your venture?
I started the business with a part of my savings and my parents’ help

What is your “Golden Rule” in business?
Never bow to convention, always strive to be different.

Where do you hope to see your business in 5 years time?
I envision ‘Su.Re` to be one of the leading retailers in quirky clothing in Sri Lanka, and have dreams of entering the international market too.

By Tina Edward Gunawardhana