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7. Celebrating the Doyenne: Nikita Deshpande

“For most of history, Anonymous was a woman.” ~ Virginia Woolf. On this International Women's Day, GlobalSpa recognizes and celebrates the women in the industry as we delve into their success mantra they follow, mistakes that have helped them grow, and of course, their WELLNESS philosophy.

Right from her formative years, Nikita Deshpande, Creative Director & Co-Founder of ilana, has been intrigued by the organic space, experimenting with and developing small batches of skincare from the confines of her kitchen. ilana was born from this desire to create effective skincare that’s ethically innovative, accessible, and affordable.

What is your wellness philosophy?

Being in the skincare industry, I have realised that wellness is a much wider approach to life than we realise. Topical treatments and external factors can only help you to a certain point. The true meaning of wellness lies in how you treat your body internally and externally.

Your success mantra?

Take each day as a challenge and an opportunity. Plan you 24 hours whilst balancing your personal and company’s wellbeing. If you are physically ready and well for the day, then only you’ll be able to take on the challenges.

A lesson you learned from making a mistake?

A major lesson has been that even when you plan your business path to the exact details and with good intentions as well, the path is not straight at all. Riddled with all sorts of technical difficulties and obstacles you’ll need to keep on re-strategizing your every move to reach somewhere.

Any piece of advice for all the women out there?

Take the first step today! Don’t wait for the magical tomorrow where you’d be more sorted or have better means. It’s all about making the first move at the earliest.

What has been your biggest pride as a doyenne?

My biggest pride is and always will be the morals and principles of my business. The same has now penetrated through the entire team and affects every decision we make. Being an ethical business is always our top priority and will remain even as the scale and team expand.