This cover of World’s Leaders features Zarine Manchanda, a testament to resilience, innovation, and empowerment who is embodying the spirit of a modern-day business icon. Zarine’s story begins in the serene hills of Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh, where she was born and raised in a prominent political family. As the daughter of a Minister and a successful businessman, her upbringing was marked by privilege and influence, near the spiritual home of the Dalai Lama.
Following her university education, Zarine moved to Mumbai, driven by dreams of becoming an actress. However, breaking into the glamorous film industry proved challenging, leading her to a pivotal and dramatic career shift. Determined to make a difference and build her own political base, Zarine established the Zarine Manchanda Foundation in Aarey Colony, Mumbai, in 2019.
In just two years, despite the challenges posed by COVID-19 lockdowns, the Foundation administered over 500 food and clothing donation programs, quickly earning a reputation as one of the most respected charitable organizations in Mumbai. This success propelled Zarine to venture into the hospitality industry, opening the luxurious Zarine Manchanda Café. The Café, known for its slogan “Delicious, Luxurious Spiritual Charm,” offers patrons a unique experience with its stylish décor, sophisticated tableware, blessings for guests, and the soothing sound of Tibetan Bells from Dharamshala.
Zarine’s interior design company, Zarine Manchanda Interiors, was instrumental in creating the Café’s luxurious ambiance. Her innovative approach has earned her the title of the Founder of the 7-Star café experience in India, and she is now poised to expand this concept both domestically and internationally through franchising.
Zarine’s multifaceted success has made her a celebrated figure and a role model. She has graced the cover of FEMINA magazine and was named one of the “Fabulous 50 Women” by Femina in 2020. India Today recognized her as one of the “45 Most Influential Indians” in their 45th-anniversary edition in 2020. Furthermore, Zarine has received accolades from the Economic Times for her business expansions and was honored by the Times of India as a Young Philanthropist in January 2021.
Commitment to Excellence
Zarine is dedicated to ensuring that her vision is meticulously implemented across all sectors of her diverse business portfolio, including her charity foundation. Her approach is characterized by a commitment to setting trends rather than following them. This philosophy is evident in every aspect of her enterprises, from the distinctive design and decor of her food establishments to the unique and crisp uniforms of her premium security agency personnel.
To maintain the high standards she demands, Zarine has assembled a core team responsible for the daily management and operation of her businesses and foundation. She believes that excellence is achieved not just through talent but by creating the right conditions for success. This principle is exemplified by her analogy that an excellent curry requires more than just nice ingredients—it necessitates proper preparation and a well-followed recipe.
Performance management methods are used at the Zarine Manchanda Foundation to evaluate employee performance and potential using both quantitative and qualitative factors. The foundation employs a 360-degree feedback method to identify behavioral patterns, which serve as indicators for the person-performance matrix. Additionally, employees are given the option to choose an ecosystem that aligns with their individual skills, ensuring they are respected and recognized for their contributions.
Zarine’s strategy depends on comprehending and matching the motives of the foundation’s main target group as well as its staff. She acknowledges that motivations can vary based on demographics and purpose, and she strives to create a work environment that resonates with these diverse aspirations. Through this approach, she ensures that her businesses and foundation not only achieve success but also foster a culture of respect, recognition, and alignment with individual and collective goals.
From Charity to Business and Beyond
Zarine’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable. Her privileged upbringing, combined with exemplary charity work, has earned her the moniker “Princess of the Poor” by India’s media. She is also poised to be a “Mother to Millions,” drawing inspiration from her lifelong role models, Princess Diana and Mother Teresa. These two iconic women, who forged a deep connection through their charitable work in India, have greatly influenced Zarine’s dedication to helping the poor.
In 2021, Zarine’s extraordinary efforts were recognized with several prestigious awards. She became a two-time National Award winner for her work through her foundation and received two Governor Awards from Bhagat Singh Koshyari, the esteemed Governor of Maharashtra. Additionally, Zarine was honored with the Nelson Mandela Peace Award, which came with a Doctorate Degree, acknowledging her invaluable contributions to serving India’s neediest.
Zarine’s accolades continued in 2022 when she received an award for her charity work at the All India Council on Human Rights & Social Justice in Delhi. She was also honored with Midday Magazine’s “Power Woman Award” and was felicitated as “Iconic Young Entrepreneur & Philanthropist of the Year” at the Governor’s House in Mumbai. That same year, she was named “Young Entrepreneur of the Year” in Delhi, where she served as Guest of Honor.
Due to her substantial media coverage as an award-winning philanthropist, CEO, and young entrepreneur, Zarine was appointed Regional Director in Mumbai for BRICS in December 2021. This prestigious geopolitical and economic trade organization includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, and aims to foster increased trade and mutual economic interests.
In another notable appointment, Zarine was named Chairperson & Editor-in-Chief by India’s National Council of News & Broadcasting for Maharashtra, Himachal Pradesh, and Goa in June 2023. This role covers critical issues such as freedom of the press, media reforms, and human rights.
Zarine also showcased her versatility by featuring as a Showstopper at two Bombay Times Fashion Week Galas in December 2020 and October 2021. As a young entrepreneur, she expanded her business portfolio by launching two new companies in 2022: “Heavenly Flavours,” a 7-star cloud kitchen and food delivery service, and Zarine Manchanda Premium Security Service, making her the only woman in India to own a security services business. In 2023, she opened “Flavours of the Himachal Pradesh,” a 7-star restaurant in Mumbai, specializing in Dham, a traditional vegetarian thali from Himachal Pradesh.
Building on her successful philanthropic and entrepreneurial ventures, and driven by her political ambitions, Zarine launched her own political party, The Zarine Manchanda People’s Party, and will contest elections in Mumbai’s Andheri West area in April 2024. Widely respected as a social activist and Champion of the Poor, Zarine aims to use her political party as a force for positive change, particularly among Mumbai’s poorest residents.
Becoming Trendsetter
Zarine harbors grand ambitions for the future, leveraging her extensive expertise in running profitable enterprises to carry on her father’s legacy in her distinctive style. She initiated her journey by founding a charity aimed at assisting individuals in need in Mumbai. But her vision extended beyond philanthropy. Zarine also launched a high-end café, a food delivery business, and a top-tier security firm, each reflecting her commitment to excellence and innovation.
Zarine’s aspirations are not confined to one location. She envisions expanding her business footprint internationally, responding to inquiries from India and other countries about franchise opportunities. Despite her expansive plans, Zarine remains grounded in her core values. Her mission is to embody good intentions, kindness, and generosity in all her endeavors. She ensures that her businesses blend charity, kindness, luxury, and spirituality, creating a unique and meaningful impact.
With unwavering determination and passion, Zarine is far from slowing down. She is steadfast in her commitment to making a positive difference in the world, tackling one project at a time, and leaving a lasting legacy of compassion and excellence.
Visionary Leadership and Advocacy for Women in Business
Zarine believes in being thoroughly engaged and focused on every aspect of her businesses to ensure that her vision is achieved and strategic plans are successfully implemented. Each of her companies, including her Foundation, began as a meticulous vision in her mind, designed to launch smoothly and encapsulate her unique selling proposition (USP). She emphasizes the importance of hiring skilled management and staff to operate the businesses after their launch, ensuring that her vision is consistently realized.
As a woman leader, Zarine sees significant opportunities for women to grow and lead in the business world. She is optimistic about the advancements in women’s education and training, which prepare them to be the leaders of tomorrow. While acknowledging that the playing field is not yet completely equal, she is confident that women are closing the gap.
Zarine aims to lead by example, demonstrating that women can leverage their unique skill sets, bold visions, hard work, and determination to fulfill their dreams and implement strategic plans for commercial success. She hopes her journey inspires other women to bring their strengths to the forefront and achieve their own business aspirations.
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