Introduction:
In the small town of Engandiyur, Kerala, Sumila Jayaraj lived a quiet life as a devoted homemaker and mother of twin children. With her husband working abroad in Dubai and her kids away at school, Sumila found herself with ample time on her hands. Little did she know that a chance job opportunity at a local coconut oil company would ignite an entrepreneurial spark within her and forever change the trajectory of her life. Armed with newfound passion and determination, Sumila embarked on a journey to create her own successful organic coconut products business. Through hard work, innovation, and perseverance, she has not only achieved financial independence, but discovered a deep sense of purpose and fulfillment. This is the inspiring story of Sumila’s transformation from homemaker to entrepreneur.
A Faithful First Step
Sumila’s entrepreneurial journey began in 2010 when she took a job at a local virgin coconut oil manufacturing company. Though she had no prior business experience, Sumila quickly immersed herself in learning about the product and production process. As the main point of contact for international customers, she honed her communication skills and developed a keen understanding of the global market for coconut products.
It was through this exposure that Sumila first recognized the immense potential and health benefits of coconut-based goods. “As the inquiries came, I started to learn more about the product and understand its importance,” she explains. “This is when I got passionate about coconut products.” Inspired and invigorated, Sumila began dreaming of starting her own venture.
Creating Green aura
After over a decade of gaining industry knowledge and expertise, Sumila took the leap and formally launched her company, Greenaura, in 2021. Starting with a focus on virgin coconut oil, often called a “miracle oil” for its myriad health properties, Sumila gradually expanded her product line to include coconut milk powder, vinegar, curry powder, chutney, pickles and more.
Each addition was the result of careful research and experimentation to create top-quality, organic coconut products that provided both flavor and wellness benefits. Sumila’s standards for her goods were uncompromising – a reflection of the care and passion she poured into building her brand.
Overcoming Obstacles
Of course, the path to success rarely unfolds without challenges. As a first-time entrepreneur with no formal business training, Sumila had to educate herself on the ins and outs of running a company. From navigating complex export regulations to building a customer base from the ground up, the learning curve was steep.
There were financial hurdles to overcome as well. Starting a business is a capital-intensive endeavor, and as a homemaker, Sumila had limited resources to draw upon. Undeterred, she invested her savings and sought small loans to cover initial costs. Slowly but surely, through relentless hard work and unwavering commitment, Greenaura began to grow and thrive.
A Thriving Business Takes Root
Today, just two years after launching, Greenaura is a flourishing enterprise recording an impressive Rs 20 lakh in average monthly sales. Sumila has cultivated a dedicated customer base not just in India, but across the United States, United Kingdom, Australia and Malaysia. The company now offers a robust selection of 13 different organic coconut products that are beloved by health-conscious consumers worldwide.
Sumila’s commitment to quality and her innovative approach have been key drivers of Greenaura’s rapid success. By sourcing the freshest coconuts from local farmers and using traditional manufacturing techniques, she ensures her products retain maximum nutritional value and flavor. Her formulas are carefully developed to highlight the natural goodness of coconuts.
But beyond her business achievements, it is the personal growth and transformation that Sumila treasures most. From a shy and hesitant homemaker, she has blossomed into a confident entrepreneur and leader. “As a woman, we need financial security and it was high time that I taste independence and feel passionate about work,” Sumila shares. “It was an unexpected turning point for me and certainly a fulfilling journey from being a homemaker to an entrepreneur.”
Timeline of Key Events:
- 2010 – Sumila joins local virgin coconut oil company
- 2021 – Greenaura is formally launched with initial product line
- 2022 – Greenaura expands to 13 products and develops global customer base
- 2023 – Company achieves Rs 20 lakh in average monthly sales
Conclusion:
Sumila’s journey offers powerful lessons and inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs, especially women. Her story proves that it’s never too late to pursue your passions and that a lack of formal business experience need not stand in the way of success. By trusting her instincts, working hard, and continually pushing herself to learn and grow, Sumila was able to build a thriving enterprise that has given her both financial freedom and deep personal fulfillment.
Perhaps the greatest takeaway is the transformative power of entrepreneurship. Not only has starting Greenaura allowed Sumila to create a successful business, it has fundamentally changed how she moves through the world. Today, she is a confident leader who shares her story and experience at universities. She has built an extensive international network. Most importantly, she has discovered a profound sense of purpose and joy in her work. As Sumila powerfully attests, “It was a fulfilling journey from being a homemaker to an entrepreneur.”
