Ep 53 – Breaking Free From Expectations

Ep 53- Breaking Free From Expectations
Our next guest describes herself as many things – an entrepreneur, lawyer, tea master, women’s activist and so much more. Personally, we find ourselves describing her as a modern-day superhero. In this week’s episode, check out how Uppma Virdi broke free from expectations and created a path of her own.
Uppma Virdi
Our next guest describes herself as many things – an entrepreneur, lawyer, tea master, women’s activist and so much more. Personally, we find ourselves describing her as a modern-day superhero.
As a first-generation migrant hailing from a family of professionals, Uppma Virdi is no stranger to the pressure of expectations. By day, she was making her family proud by excelling at her corporate law firm. But, by night, she was artfully combining fragrant spices and selling them in market places.
It wasn’t until she was faced with the question ‘who in the Indian community inspires you,’ that she opted to roll up her sleeves and create a path of her own. And we couldn’t be more delighted to share with you the results.
Five years, and a heaped-spoonful of courage later, Uppma has grown her business Chai Walli from a humble market stall to an award-winning brand that is the leading expert in authentic Indian teas. Created as a homage to her grandfather, Uppma continues to create deliciously addictive blends, allowing everyone to experience a sip of India. If that weren’t enough, she is also a captivating public speaker who uses her voice to empower women and spark positive change in others.
On today’s episode, Uppma is synonymously passionate and encouraging. Instead of settling for the status quo, Uppma encourages us to embrace our unique passions and break free from the expectation society so often places on us.
Like Uppma’s tea, this episode is the perfect blend of passion, hard work and inspiration. Pour yourself a steaming and fragrant cup of Chai and press play.
Street Cred:
Uppma Virdi is the CEO of Chai Walli, an award- winning tea company specialising in high grade Indian teas. Uppma, herself, has received many awards including being a Forbes 30 under 30 and CNN 40 under 40 recipient. She was also named Australia’s Businesswoman of the year in 2016 at the Indian Australian Business and Community Awards. Uppma Virdi is also a public speaker and women’s activist.
Highlight Reel:
Growing up as a first generation migrant [5:24]
Breaking free from expectations [9:52]
Falling into business [12:40]