Courage, Innovation, and Building Together | Mayank Jain | TEDxDTSS College of Law

Key Concepts

• Aluminium Composite Panels (ACPs): Modern facade materials, previously imported into India with inconsistent quality and high cost.
• Courage: The central theme, defined as the courage to begin, to go beyond limitations, and to distribute courage to employees.
• Entrepreneurship: The act of starting a business, exemplified by Mr. Prakash Jen's decision to manufacture ACPs in India.
• Employee Empowerment: Fostering a sense of ownership and respect among employees, illustrated by celebrating birthdays.
• Overcoming Fear: Acknowledging and taking steps despite fear, as demonstrated by the speaker's presentation.

The Genesis of Viva Composite Panel: A Story of Courage

The presentation, delivered by Mayang Jen, Director at Viva Composite Panel, centers on the theme of courage, illustrated through the journey of her family and the establishment of their company.

The Need for Local ACP Manufacturing

In the early 2000s, India experienced rapid growth, leading to a demand for modern facade materials. Aluminium Composite Panels (ACPs) were being imported, but their quality was inconsistent, prices were high, and accessibility was limited. This market gap presented an opportunity.

Mr. Prakash Jen's Bold Step

Mayang Jen's father, Mr. Prakash Jen, the CMD of Viva Composite Panel, recognized this opportunity. Despite having a stable job and financial security, he made the courageous decision to manufacture ACPs in India. This was a significant departure from the norm, requiring the "courage to begin."

Distributing Courage to Employees

Mr. Prakash Jen's philosophy extends beyond personal courage; he believes in distributing courage to his employees. A key initiative highlighted is the celebration of every employee's birthday across India and overseas. This practice is not merely ceremonial but a deliberate act of showing respect and fostering a sense of ownership. By celebrating birthdays, the company aims to make employees feel that the business is their own, rather than just a place of employment. This, in turn, instills courage in them to contribute more actively.

Overcoming Personal Fear

Mayang Jen herself acknowledges the presence of fear, even as she speaks about courage. Her presentation at TEDx is presented as a personal step in overcoming this fear, demonstrating that courage is an ongoing process of taking action despite apprehension. She expresses gratitude to TEDx for the opportunity.

Conclusion

The core message is that progress, whether societal, business, or personal, is fundamentally driven by the courage to start and to persevere. Viva Composite Panel's origin story exemplifies this, with Mr. Prakash Jen's entrepreneurial spirit and his commitment to fostering a courageous and empowered work environment for his employees. The speaker's own act of presenting underscores the personal journey of embracing courage in the face of fear.