TheGlitz ‘Super Woman’ Dr. Rupali Ambegaonkar, the Director and CEO of TCW Tea Pvt. Ltd, left her promising medical career for good, to pursue the true calling of her life. She became one of the few certified tea sommeliers in India, having done her certification from the highly reputed Tea Association of Canada, and further moving to China for her research. There, in a secluded and lush green tea estate, Dr Rupali Ambegaonkar learned the ancient secrets of flavour blending and tea brewing, thereby developing her signature recipes into perfect concoctions.

She commenced her tea journey as the proprietor of The Iron Buddha Company back in 2011 with the brand name Tea Culture of the World. Six years later, TCW Tea Pvt. Ltd. was formed to accelerate the brand to reach end consumers. Since then, the brand has been offering exemplary experiences to all tea lovers around the world.

Your journey has had many momentous milestones. Could you tell us about your life-changing journey that has moulded you to be what you are today?
My journey as an entrepreneur has been a life-changing experience, with ups and downs that have shaped me. I’ve learned to see setbacks as opportunities for growth and to focus on investing my efforts in the right direction. Success isn’t my end goal, but rather a reflection of the hard work and dedication I’ve put into my endeavors. For me, it’s all about investing my efforts in the right direction and staying focused on my goals.

Could you list 3 of your major achievements?

As an entrepreneur, all my achievements are meaningful, but these three hold a special place. Being chosen by Jet Airways to serve tea in premium cabins, listing as the youngest brand in Defense stores, and recently receiving an invitation to speak at Tedx Talk are all accomplishments I’m proud of and grateful for.

What are the setbacks you have faced? How did you tackle these setbacks or challenges? And what lesson have you learned from it?
As an entrepreneur, I’ve encountered numerous challenges, from financial hurdles to missed opportunities and staffing difficulties. However, rather than succumbing to defeat, I’ve learned to embrace setbacks as opportunities for growth. These setbacks have taught me the value of adaptability, persistence, and a positive mindset

When you look back, what are the three qualities in you that have helped you become what you are today?

First and foremost, patience has been key. Building a successful business takes time, and it’s important to be patient, even in the face of challenges.
Second, perseverance has been vital. There will inevitably be setbacks along the way, but it’s important to stay focused on the end goal and never give up.
Third, intelligence has been crucial. It’s about being able to think critically, adapt to changing circumstances, and make smart, strategic decisions.

Who are the people who have been the wind behind your wings?
As an entrepreneur, I’ve been fortunate to have a strong support system. From my daughter, who inspired me to make the leap into entrepreneurship, to my family, friends, and industry peers like Shreejit Nair and Avinash Tripathi, many people have played a vital role in helping me achieve success.

Lastly, if there was a quote to define you, what would it be?
“When you reach the end of your rope, tie a knot in it and hang on.” –Franklin D. Roosevelt.
This quote reflects my determination to persevere in the face of adversity and keep pushing forward, no matter what challenges may arise.