Bilal Ahmed Shah went to Bangalore to study engineering but dropped out and came to Nepal where he started a leather goods business – ‘Latido’ with the tagline “Be who you are”. Latido, in Spanish, means heartbeat and the name itself stands testimony to the fact that Shah followed his passion by starting the business. Two years later, at just 22, this young entrepreneur, who is also a freelance writer, runs a successful business manufacturing leather jackets. 

A big fan of leather, Shah says every kind of leather has its own story and purpose. This is the reason why, he says, he sees to it that his customers have the freedom to design their own jackets according to what they want it for. “By wearing your own creation and style, you get to ‘be who you are’ with Latido”, he says. Here, Shah shares some valuable business (and life) lessons.

What inspired you start your own business?
I made a decision to start my own business when I felt I was in a transitional phase in my life. I wanted to do something, be something, and have a social standing of my own. It took me five to six months to establish ‘Latido’. Even coming up with the name required some time. Everything, in business, takes time and there are always ups and downs once you start. But loving what you do is the key to starting and running a successful business. My love for leather compelled me to start this business, and now I’m manufacturing leather goods for people who love it as much as I do. 

What are the challenges of working in Nepal and how do you overcome it?
There are always challenges in business. It’s a part of the game. Post the earthquake last year and the subsequent blockade, things were difficult for the business. I actually had to stop working during this time as I wasn’t able to take any orders. That was a one off thing and now we are back in full swing. However, in Nepal, it is really hard to get good varieties of leather so we have to order it from India and China. The import bit always comes with its share of challenges so recently we’ve even begun manufacturing our own raw material. I guess you just have to find a way to work through the challenges when you run a business. And if you are passionate enough, you always will. 

Can you tell us a little about your working style?
 I believe a friendly work environment ensures creativity and good work. I’m very friendly with my employees and I often go out for tea with them. I think this kind of easy relationship at work will help me get the best out of my workers and they will also be motivated to give their best at work. In my experience, people never work well when they feel out of place so I try my best to make my workers feel appreciated and don’t hesitate to let them how important they are to me and my business. I also consider myself fortunate to have people who have worked with my father under me now. With experienced workers, you don’t have to be on your toes all the time. 

Your suggestions for someone starting their own business?
You have to be passionate about your work and believe in it and yourself. Only then will you succeed in business, and in life, if I may add. For me, ‘Latido’ is not just a brand but a way to overcome my fears, inhibitions, and set my own path. I believe good business isn’t just about selling your products and reaching your market goals. It should teach you invaluable lessons in life. You have to grow with your business. 

 
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