In India, the narrative of business tycoons transitioning into the realm of politics is both familiar and well-documented. Captains of industry often step onto the political stage, leveraging their economic clout and influence to shape public policy. However, the reverse – a politically driven individual channelling their ideology, vision, and leadership skills into the world of business – is a rarity. The journey of a politically motivated individual transforming into a successful entrepreneur offers a compelling narrative. It is a story of turning grassroots activism, organisational skills, and a deep understanding of socio-economic realities into building sustainable ventures. Such a transition not only challenges the conventional path but also underscores the synergy between leadership in politics and innovation in business.
Many student leaders dedicate themselves to intense struggle, envisioning a career in mainstream electoral politics. However, while not all of them succeed in securing elected positions, their journey does not end there. These leaders often pivot to becoming influential players in pressure politics, leveraging their grassroots connections, organisational acumen, and ideological commitment to shape public opinion, influence policy decisions, and hold institutions accountable. Their impact, though less visible in the corridors of power, remains significant in driving socio-political change and advocating for marginalised voices.
Meeting Suheb Naik: A Glimpse into Politics in Goa
In 2019, after reaching Goa from New Delhi, I had the opportunity to meet and interact with Mr. Suheb Naik for the first time. From the very outset, our conversation revolved around a wide array of socio-political issues. It became evident that Suheb was well-informed and deeply invested in understanding the political and social dynamics of India’s capital. His awareness and analytical insights reflected the depth of his engagement with current affairs.
Sensing an opportunity to learn more about him, I subtly shifted the conversation toward his early educational journey, his current engagements, and his aspirations. During our discussion, another mutual friend, Mr. Yonus Mulla, joined us and shared stories of Suheb’s vibrant student life and active role in politics. It was through Yonus’s anecdotes that I began to understand the reasons behind Suheb’s intense curiosity about New Delhi’s happenings. His experiences as a student leader had clearly left a lasting imprint on his worldview.
At that time, Suheb had recently completed his tenure as the General Secretary of Government polytechnic College, PanJIM. Yet, his influence and connections extended far beyond the university campus. He maintained strong relationships with politicians across party lines, a testament to his ability to foster dialogue and build bridges. This network proved instrumental when the Students’ Islamic Organisation of India (SIO) drafted a comprehensive Students’ Manifesto for the 2019 general elections. Suheb’s involvement in this initiative showcased his dedication to amplifying the voices of students and youth in shaping the nation’s future.
Inspired by his proactive approach, I saw this as an opportunity to immerse myself in Goa’s political landscape. Over the next two days, I accompanied Suheb as he facilitated meetings with several prominent politicians in the state. This experience offered invaluable insights into Suheb’s leadership style, his ability to navigate complex political terrains, and his unwavering commitment to driving meaningful change. Our interaction left me with a profound respect for his vision and the depth of his socio-political engagement.
Overcoming Challenges and Making a Lasting Impact – Suheb Naik
Here is the inspiring story of Suheb Naik, a natural-born leader and visionary entrepreneur from Pilar, Goa. Suheb Naik exemplifies the rare combination of leadership, determination, and entrepreneurial spirit.
During his early years of higher education, Suheb Naik faced a crossroads familiar to many students – navigating career decisions influenced by peer discussions, societal expectations, and family pressures. While many succumb to these challenges, often dropping out or abandoning their aspirations to avoid the overwhelming odds, Suheb chose a different path. He stood resolute, undeterred by the mounting challenges around him. He refused to be swayed by external pressures or to take the easy way out. Instead, he confronted every obstacle head-on, determined to carve his own path. With unwavering focus and resilience, he not only overcame the odds but excelled in his pursuits, turning his trials into stepping stones toward success.
A third-year Civil Engineering student at Government Polytechnic Panjim, Suheb’s dynamic approach to leadership became evident when he was elected as the General Secretary of the college in 2015.
From the moment he assumed this role, Suheb demonstrated a clear vision and an unwavering commitment to making a meaningful impact on his peers and the institution. His first priority as General Secretary was to organise a prestigious National Level Technical Paper Presentation and Expo. This ambitious initiative aimed to provide a unique platform for students from across the country to showcase their talents and innovative ideas through technical papers and project presentations.
Suheb envisioned the expo as more than just an academic exercise – it was an opportunity to bridge the gap between education and industry.
“We aim to bring the best and top-level industries of the nation to display their machinery and technologies at our exhibition, which will help students stay updated with the latest trends and advancements in today’s market,” he said.
By inviting leading companies to participate in the event, Suheb sought to create a space where students could gain practical exposure to cutting-edge innovations and foster connections with industry leaders. Mr. LaxmikantParsekar, Chief Minister of Goa, graced the event as the chief guest. It was a historic moment, as Suheb successfully invited the Chief Minister to visit the college for the first time.
Recognising the challenges faced by his fellow students due to the lack of campus recruitment drives in recent years, Suheb’s mission extended beyond organising the event. He was determined to improve career opportunities for his peers, ensuring they had access to professional pathways directly from their classrooms. Suheb’s efforts reflect his deep-rooted belief in empowering students through education, innovation, and collaboration.
Under his leadership, the proposed event aimed to transform the campus into a hub of technical excellence and opportunity, setting a benchmark for other institutions in the region. Suheb’s story is a testament to the power of vision and action, demonstrating how student leaders can rise above challenges to create lasting impact – not just for themselves but for an entire generation of learners.
Overcoming Obstacles: The Relentless Pursuit of Entrepreneurship
Again, in late 2024, I found myself sitting across from Mr. Suheb once again, this time in the bustling town of Mapusa, Goa. His partner, Mr. Mazhar, was with him, and the two were in high spirits, reminiscing about the early days of their journey. They spoke with a warmth that reflected both the struggles they had faced and the lessons they had learned along the way. As I listened to them, I could feel the weight of their experiences – each failure, each setback, had shaped them, moulding them into the driven, resilient entrepreneurs they were today.
Suheb, with his vast network of connections, had crossed paths with Mazhar during his college years, and the two had become inseparable not just in friendship but in business ventures. Together, they had delved into multiple start-up ideas, driven by a shared vision to carve out a place for themselves in the world, to serve society, and to be independent.
“Let me take you back to 2013 and 2014,” Suheb began, a nostalgic tone creeping into his voice. “Back then, we were just trying to figure things out. I didn’t want to depend on my family; I wanted to be independent. So, I started experimenting with unorganised businesses – mobile and scrap dealing. It wasn’t glamorous, but it was a start. I ventured into the mobile business to tap into the booming telecommunications market. I worked hard, procuring and distributing smartphones and accessories, ensuring customers could get the latest tech. And then there was scrap dealing. I saw potential in recycling, in sustainability. I helped collect, segregate, and recycle scrap materials, doing my bit for the environment while also making a profit. But as with many things in life, both businesses couldn’t sustain themselves for long. I ended both ventures smartly, without any loss. It was a valuable lesson in knowing when to cut your losses.”
His face softened as he continued, “But those were my first lessons in business – how to start, how to fail, and most importantly, how to learn.”
Then came a chapter of hope, followed by another setback. “I thought goat farming could be a way to create a sustainable business,” Suheb continued. “I researched the market, planned the logistics, and even travelled with friends to explore the potential. The demand for goat meat and milk was high, and I believed I could build a thriving livestock farm. But nature had other plans. The seasonal impacts hit hard, and before I could even begin the project, it fell apart.” His voice, though calm, carried a hint of disappointment.
Undeterred, Suheb turned to the next idea: fish breeding. “Goa had huge potential in the aquaculture industry,” he said. “We wanted to breed high-quality fish, promote sustainable fishing practices, and meet the growing demand for seafood. But, unfortunately, lack of expertise led us to drop the idea once again. It was frustrating, but every failure taught us something new.”
I could see the determination in his eyes as he spoke of his journey, and I couldn’t help but wonder how he managed to stay motivated despite the setbacks. “So, what did you do next?” I asked, curious to hear how he found his footing.
Suheb leaned back, a wry smile on his face.
We didn’t stop. We kept going.
In 2015, Suheb and Mazhar launched Meal Hunt, a food delivery service aimed at simplifying the process of ordering meals from local restaurants. “We worked so hard on that venture,” Suheb recalled. By day, I led the college as General Secretary; by evening, I delivered food as a delivery person. I personally delivered lunch boxes, ensuring everything went smoothly. But the logistics costs quickly became overwhelming, and we had to shut it down. But, as always, we didn’t give up.
Then came another idea – one close to their hearts: Hyderabadi Dum Biryani. “Goa is a place full of tourists, and we knew there was a demand for Hyderabadi cuisine. So, we started a small venture to serve authentic biryani. We put our heart and soul into it, making sure we honoured the rich culinary heritage of Hyderabad. But, once again, it didn’t work out. The cooks and labourers didn’t support us, and we had to close it. We started the venture from our home to cut down on expenses, but it wasn’t enough.”
Despite these challenges, Suheb’s spirit remained unbroken.
Failure? No, he said firmly.
We learned. Every single time, we learned something new. It wasn’t failure; it was just a stepping stone to our next idea.
In 2016, they ventured into Eagle Agro and Ganga Agro. Eagle Agro focused on supplying sweet corn and mutton, catering to the increasing demand for fresh, high-quality produce. Meanwhile, Ganga Agro provided beautifully arranged bouquets for various occasions. “Both ventures were about filling a need in the market with a commitment to quality,” Suheb explained, his voice steady with the confidence that only comes from experience.
The next venture they explored was coconut distribution – a venture that, once again, didn’t quite make it. “The market prices were too competitive for us to handle,” he admitted.
But the real turning point came when Mazhar became the General Secretary of the Goa University Student Union. “That’s when we got the opportunity to manage the Goa University Canteen and Catering,” Suheb said with a grin. “We focused on providing affordable, nutritious meals for students and staff, with a commitment to quality. It was a different challenge, but it taught us a lot about running a business, managing people, and providing value.”
I could feel the weight of their journey in his words – each business, each failure, each lesson, was a thread woven into the fabric of their entrepreneurial story. It wasn’t just about success; it was about the resilience to keep going, to keep learning, and to keep evolving.
“Failed again?” I asked, half-joking, half-sincere.
Suheb looked at me with a glint in his eyes. “No,” he said, his voice filled with unshakable conviction, “We learned. Every single time, we learned.”
And in that moment, I realised that this journey, filled with setbacks and triumphs alike, had only strengthened Suheb and Mazhar’s resolve to build something lasting – a legacy built on perseverance, passion, and an unwavering belief in their ability to create.
Building Dreams, Not Just Homes: The Story Behind Workzplus’ Success
Out of the blue, I had the chance to meet Mr. Suheb in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. He was accompanied by a few friends for Umrah. As we exchanged pleasantries, my mind raced back to our earlier conversations, particularly about his political aspirations and the businesses he had started. Naturally, I couldn’t resist asking him about them.
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