“‘It was at this stage of my life I suddenly felt I had my meaning here in Scotland, eager to build a prosperous life for my family.’”
When I first set on my travels from India to Scotland in 2002, I arrived with the mindset that I was preparing to start a new chapter in my life here. Filled with excitement and anticipation, I was eager to learn about what Scotland had to offer. I was pleasantly surprised by the breathtaking Scottish landscapes of dense woodlands, and the crisp waters made me fall in love with the country from the outset. What really stood out was the kind-hearted nature of the people. I did not know many people when I arrived in Scotland, but I felt a real sense of care from everyone I met. From people inviting me into their social circles to a simple acknowledgment in the street, I felt a sense of community and friendliness in Scotland, which helped me integrate into the community with ease. The point I truly considered Scotland to be my home away from home was when I was expecting my first child, Saanvi. It was at this stage of my life I suddenly felt I had my meaning here in Scotland, eager to build a prosperous life for my family.
Why Did I Start My Business in Scotland?
From the moment I arrived in Scotland, my focus was on my career. Before deciding to move to the UK, I researched to ensure that Scotland was the best destination for my professional aspirations to flourish. My eyes were set on the business world, so I had to be certain that Scotland was the optimal environment for this. I soon realised that Scotland was the perfect place for me to kickstart my entrepreneurial journey. As I started engaging more with Scottish organisations, it became clear that there was a lot of help available for people looking to start their own businesses. Launching my company here in Scotland, knowing that support was available to give me the best chances of success, was another reason I knew I had made the right decision.
Help & Support for Business Start Ups
When establishing PG Paper in 2003, I was surprised at how straightforward the process of starting my own business was. As expected, I faced many challenges at the beginning. However, I overcame these hurdles through the guidance and support I received from established Scottish businesses and local government bodies. As I have grown the business to where it is today, I have gained so much knowledge of both the UK and Indian markets. This knowledge has provided me with the skills to act as a bridge between both nations, sharing my experiences and expertise with businesses across both countries.
I am extremely proud and privileged to call both Scotland and India home, and I look forward to being a part of strengthening these relationships in the years ahead.