Today we’d like to introduce you to Pooja Backliwal.

It’s an honor to speak with you today. Why don’t you give us some details about you and your story. How did you get to where you are today?

Thank you! I am happy to use this platform to talk about my magazine, Career Ahead. As Managing Editor, I can say it is extremely gratifying to put forth this magazine which is aimed at empowering today’s youth with information and guidance that can help them on their career paths. We are at a juncture in time where things are in a state of flux, certainly with regard to education as well as jobs, but also for many other issues that take up space in the minds of young people. It is our endeavor to share experiences, to share what others are going through, to share information about what is going on in the world that impacts the lives of the next generation of professionals, entrepreneurs, sportspersons and artists.

On a personal note, I have always been involved in writing and editing, starting back in high school, and curating articles for the magazine is one of the most rewarding jobs I have had. Connecting with people from across the world, from diverse backgrounds and with unique life experiences is exciting and enjoyable at the same time; and the high point is knowing that we are inspiring young people and providing insight on prospective career choices. As an entrepreneur myself – apart from working on Career Ahead I also have a jewelry business – I feel that learning about the experiences of others and their journey to success is a source of great encouragement and inspiration.

I’m sure your success has not come easily. What challenges have you had to overcome along the way?

There have been challenges in terms of being a print magazine and launching our inaugural issue in 2020, in the midst of the pandemic and lockdowns! However, we have been sharing complete digital issues on our website, which are free for all to access. We also hope to expand our readership worldwide with upcoming issues. With the internet connecting the globe like never before in the history of mankind, students and professionals from all countries have similar concerns and we aim to address the needs of all people, no matter where they are based.

Let’s talk about the work you do. What do you specialize in and why should someone work with you over the competition?

I do believe we offer a unique product, something which has not been attempted before. We connect those who need answers and advice with others who have been there and lived through those experiences. We have been able to share the stories of individuals who have achieved success, with their personal varying definitions of success, and offer a view of possibilities to young people who are at that point in their lives where they are thinking about what it is they want to do or what they want to be. It is not an easy place to be – especially for those of us who have taken time to decide on what they would like to do with their lives. Learning about other people and how they navigated those waters is always a helpful experience.

In fact, I believe we may be the only magazine with the sole intention of providing insight into various career options through the first-hand experiences of real people. We fully intend to become more interactive to cater to the needs of our readers as we grow, and to organize workshops and seminars where people can delve into career options or avenues for education and learn more, to help them make informed decisions.

What’s your best piece of advice for readers who desire to find success in their life?

I believe success comes naturally when you are doing what you enjoy. Find out what gives you the greatest feeling of satisfaction or accomplishment, and pursue it. From reading about the success stories of sportsmen, artists and other professionals, one thing that comes across clearly is that if you are able to convert your passion into your profession, nothing can hold you back from success.

Speaking of success, what does the word mean to you?

For me, success means happiness. The feeling that I bring something of value to the table. Whether in jewellery or in terms of Career Ahead, the purpose is to provide something of value to the client. That is what brings joy to me. However, success in life does not revolve only around work. For me, it is about being able to pause and reflect, and to be able to appreciate the beauty of the present moment, rather than rushing from one thing to the next.

From a more general perspective, success can mean different things to different people, and what I love the most about working on Career Ahead is getting to hear about how various people have found their way to success – which could mean achieving financial success, or a certain designation, or the realization of an idea you once had – whatever makes one happy.

What’s next for you?

We are planning an exciting new segment for Career Ahead revolving around start-ups. The ‘Start-Up Story’ segment will provide a platform for start-up founders and co-founders to share their journeys, from how they started to where they are at present. Through various events and workshops, we plan to give entrepreneurs an opportunity to network and connect with mentors and investors. We also intend to identify and honor market disruptors and emerging leaders. Other avenues we plan to explore are education and training, with the launch of Career Ahead Academy, for which many of our contributors have shown interest in partnering with us.

Finally, how can people connect with you if they want to learn more.

The easiest way to connect with us is through our website. You can message us directly (we are open to article submissions or ideas for collaboration), read our previous and current issues, and also go through our online articles on our site. We are active on various platforms on social media as well.
Website: https://www.careerahead.in
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/careeraheadmagazine/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/career-ahead-magazine/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/careeraheadmagazine
Email: web@careerahead.in