‘The teachers at this school gave me love and warmth’

The professional journey of this alumnus from Apeejay School, Panchsheel Park and Saket branch has been an interesting one. Not only has he studied in two different branches of Apeejay schools, but he has also changed his line – from working as a PR in an events company to joining his family business of apparel designing.

“After I completed my schooling, I joined the University of Delhi and did a Bachelor of Commerce. After that, I joined JIMS and did my diploma in Mass Communication. I immediately got a job as an Event Operations Manager and worked for three years. This was followed by a BA in Mass Communication; I also did my PGD in Mass Communication, Public Relations, and Advertising. All through I continued to work. But as luck would have it, I was destined to join the family and here I am,” Anujh Tahim said.

Excerpts from the interview.

How did you end up studying in two branches of Apeejay?

If I had had my way I would not have shifted from the Panchsheel Park branch. Sadly, in class X, I didn’t get good enough marks to do Commerce without Math. The Saket branch offered that option and I took it.

How were your school days?

I have great memories of both Panchsheel Park and Saket. I had several friends at Panchsheel Park School and am still in touch with them. The teachers at both schools were amazing. They were extremely supportive and encouraged and motivated me.

How did you end up in your family business?

As I mentioned, I was working with a PR company and was very happy. But then my grandfather fell ill. My father was left alone to manage the store that was started back in 1947. For me, family comes first. It didn’t even take me a second to think whether leaving my job was the correct decision.

How has your journey been so far?

It has been amazing. After I joined the family business – New Prominent Tailors, I wanted to learn the tips and tricks of the business. So I did my PGD in Business Administration and Marketing. I also did my Diploma in Fashion and Apparel Design. I have been working with my father since 2012.

Can you share your experience transitioning from working for someone else to working for yourself?

When working for someone else, you’re answerable to their whims and fancies. However, when you’re your boss, you can work according to your terms and conditions. I believe that working on your terms is better than working for someone else. However, it comes with its own set of challenges. A major challenge was during the construction of the metro around Connaught Place. The roads were in bad shape, causing struggles for my dad. Then the pandemic hit, posing another set of challenges. Thankfully, we had some savings and backup plans. We also began offering home visits and used different delivery services which helped save our business.

Do you rely on technology and new tools to enhance your business?

I use social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Google Business to attract both local and international customers. I previously had a showcase website and thought it could be a portal through which we could sell. But then I realised we are into manufacturing so selling online didn’t make much sense. At present, the website is on a slow burner.

What role has Apeejay Panchsheel Park had in shaping you into the person you are?

Your schools, particularly those like Apeejay play a significant role in a child’s development. The teachers at Panchsheel Park were knowledgeable and knew the students well. I was at this school from the nursery to class X. They knew each student, provided quality education, and instilled important values. I have fond memories of the teachers as well since they gave us a lot of warmth and love.

Back then, there were no laptops, and still the teachers were well-versed with the latest innovative methods of teaching.

Share some tips and tricks if a person wants to work in the fashion space.

Fashion is all about being creative. If a person has this trait, he/she can design anything. Going to a fashion show and looking at the trends is nice but not the end. You should have the ability to convert that into wearable apparel for your clients. Next comes playing with the colours according to the body shape and skin tone is important – a la mode. Women have different types and you have to design accordingly.

What would you suggest about how Indian women must dress?

Indian women normally have an hourglass shape. So, they should wear slightly darker colours as they hide body contours. If women want to wear stripes, they should wear horizontal ones that are perfect.