We recently connected with Ayesha Ashiq and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Ayesha , we’re so appreciative of you taking the time to share your nuggets of wisdom with our community. One of the topics we think is most important for folks looking to level up their lives is building up their self-confidence and self-esteem. Can you share how you developed your confidence?
My name is Ayesha Ashiq, PhD, an award-winning Founder and CEO of “Eladder4U” and Eladder University 100% online platform, and “thehrbooth.” Over the years, my passion for merging HR and education has driven me to offer a unique learning experience, ensuring seamless student transitions from education to career while fostering shared successes among institutions. As we anticipate the upcoming launch of “EladderUniversity,” our online learning platform, I am thrilled about the prospect of empowering learners worldwide and creating a robust global community. Beyond my role as an educationist, I take immense pride in leading a premier HR solutions company specializing in Staffing & Recruitment and HRM software. Together, our mission is to make a positive global impact by delivering excellent education and HR services.
Reflecting on my journey over the past twenty-five years, it has been a profound learning experience, leading me to explore my deep-rooted passion for management, Human Resources, and education. My father, a patient, disciplined, and determined individual, instilled in me the core values of focus, family, and perseverance. His unwavering commitment to providing for our family, even in challenging times, has been a driving force behind my aspirations.
After my father’s passing, I assumed the role of the head of the household. Life presented various obstacles, but amidst struggles, I found my way into the professional world, starting as an HR Assistant at an exclusive 5-star club with 150 staff. This position demanded both physical and mental effort, but my determination and smart work opened doors for further opportunities.
My professional journey introduced me to the realm of human resource management, where I encountered challenges that propelled me to understand the critical role HR plays in addressing human issues and fostering organizational success. From India to the Middle East, I have had the privilege of working with multinational organizations, enriching my expertise and experience.
As an entrepreneur, I have embraced my passion and experience to found “Eladder4U” and contribute to human resources, recruitment, and compliance consulting firms in the Middle East. Throughout this journey, I have found unwavering support from my family, especially my mother, husband, aunt, and son, who have been pillars of strength and guidance. Throughout my endeavors, I have been a mentor, lending a helping hand, even amid the challenges of the COVID times, and I will continue to do so.
If I were to share one piece of advice with young graduates and entrepreneurs worldwide, it would be to believe in themselves, trust their intuition, and combine passion with profession. Through hard work and dedication, pursuing one’s dreams becomes an unstoppable force, never settling until those dreams become a reality.
Although I faced personal challenges that prevented me from completing my master’s in the US, I urge those who have the opportunity to chase their dreams to seize it wisely. Professors and classmates were amazed by my classroom nitration and assignments. My experience as an HR intern and the duration of my college and classroom days have been amazing. I have handled 4 states and 5 healthcare units with all professionals, being an HR business analyst and intern. Embrace every aspect of world-class education and diverse experiences, for they can shape a powerful edge toward a successful career.
I am deeply passionate about my journey and committed to making a meaningful impact in the world through education and HR services. I eagerly anticipate the launch of “EladderUniversity” and the positive change it will bring to learners across the globe.
Eladder4U, a leading Education Services/University company, is proud to announce its selection as a finalist for the prestigious 2023 Go Global Awards We have won Frontrunner at go global 2021, and won many awards individually and through organisation as well.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back at my journey, there are many qualities, skills, and knowledge that stand out Effective Communication, Strategic Problem-Solving, Continuous Learning and Adaptation, & Building Trust and Confidentiality but three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge stand out as particularly impactful are: Adaptability, Entrepreneurial Insight, & Global Prospective Adaptability: is a big deal in my career. Over the years, I’ve had to roll with the punches in various places like the Middle East, Asia, and the U.S. Back in 2004, the Middle East was nothing like it is today; it was more desert than Times Square! Commuting was a mission – long journeys to work and back home. Being in HR meant clocking at least 10 hours a day. At first, it was just me, so I could put in those long hours. Even when my son joined us in 2006, I took on bigger roles and more responsibilities. Luckily, I always had my mom and aunt by my side. My husband, who’s been in sales, also had those late nights. Now, even as the founder of a few startups, I still feel the need to keep learning. There’s always more to achieve and sustain what I’ve got going…
Advice: In the early stages of your career, actively look for experiences that push you beyond your comfort zone. Welcome change and see each new challenge as a chance to learn and grow. This adaptability will be a valuable asset as you move forward in your career.
Entrepreneurial Insight: Launching and running “Eladder4U” (focused on study abroad and university services) and “thehrbooth” demanded a keen entrepreneurial mindset. This quality played a pivotal role in stimulating innovation, nurturing growth, and navigating the intricacies of the education and HR sectors.
Reflecting on my journey, a vivid memory from my job in India back in 2002 still resonates. The company was grappling with significant labor issues, including frequent strikes and stagnant work. I had been with the organization for around eight months when an incident occurred, serving as a stark reminder that what goes around comes around.
It was around 2 am when my phone rang, interrupting my deep sleep. My husband, considerate of my fatigue, asked if I wanted to take the call. Despite the late hour, I sensed urgency and opted to answer. On the other end was a distressed employee, shaken and in tears. I instructed my husband to turn on the lights, but a power outage, courtesy of heavy rain, left us in darkness.
The employee explained that his two-year-old son was unwell, and the hospital had refused admission due to an expired insurance card. The hospital administration had advised him to seek authorization from the company’s HR or Admin and furnish a signed letter of acknowledgment. He pleaded for my help.
With no power or internet at home, I requested my husband to drive me to a nearby browsing center or any place with the ability to type, sign, and fax the required letter. I spoke with the Emergency Room doctor, assuring them of my authorization for the child’s admission. By the time the letter was sent, it was nearly 4 am. The child received treatment, and when I visited the family the next day, they regarded me almost as a savior.
Indirectly, this incident also facilitated the resolution of the broader labour issues at the company. It underscored the human side of the role and the profound impact an entrepreneurial mindset can have beyond business dynamics.
Advice: Develop your practical skills by actively looking for chances to start projects, take ownership, or step into leadership roles, even when you’re at a junior level. Embrace both successes and failures as valuable lessons that contribute to your professional growth.
Global Perspective: Working in diverse continents has given me a broad view, something essential in today’s interconnected world. Grasping varied cultures, regulations, and market dynamics has proven invaluable for making informed decisions and nurturing international collaborations. One incident that stands out is facing tremendous pressure, whether in hiring or letting employees go. The company would find itself in administrative crises demanding immediate attention, be it payroll issues, visa complications, or an employee falling sick with no immediate replacement in sight. Navigating through these situations, combined with an understanding of diverse cultures, has led me to think critically and strategize to keep things running smoothly—a win-win situation. This experience has broadened my perspective and made me more attuned to global dynamics.
Advice: Look for opportunities that immerse you in a global context. This might mean taking part in international projects, teaming up with colleagues from various backgrounds, or engaging in education and training with an international outlook. Cultivating a global mindset from the early stages of your career not only broadens your horizons but also unlocks doors to diverse opportunities. Don’t question why you’re assigned certain tasks that seem unrelated to your department, like when your boss wants you to meet someone at the hospital. Instead, view these experiences as chances to think in a diverse, global perspective and foster collaboration.
Summary: In essence, my role as an HR and Education consultant goes beyond the specific projects I handle. It shapes the culture of organizations and guides the educational paths of individuals. By emphasizing effective communication, strategic problem-solving, continuous learning, building trust, and making decisions based on data, you can significantly contribute to the success of the entities you work with.
Adaptability, entrepreneurial acumen, and a global perspective have played pivotal roles in my journey. For those in the early stages of their careers, my advice is to embrace change, foster an entrepreneurial mindset, and actively seek opportunities to expand your global awareness. These qualities not only build resilience in the face of challenges but also position you for success in an increasingly dynamic and interconnected professional landscape.
One of our goals is to help like-minded folks with similar goals connect and so before we go we want to ask if you are looking to partner or collab with others – and if so, what would make the ideal collaborator or partner?
I am open to exploring collaboration opportunities with individuals or organizations that share a passion for innovation, education, and business growth. I am particularly interested in partnering with like-minded professionals who are enthusiastic about leveraging technology and education to make a positive impact on individuals and communities. As a nonprofit organization and entrepreneurial front, Eladder University is keen on collaborating with startup accelerators to support and nurture ventures emerging from its academic programs. This involves creating partnerships that provide access to funding, mentorship, and industry connections, thus fostering an environment where innovative ideas can thrive and evolve into successful businesses. Potential collaborators could include Individuals or companies that specialize in innovative educational technology solutions and share a vision for improving education outcomes globally.
Professionals who are passionate about HR management, business administration, and organizational development, and are looking to collaborate on projects or ventures.
Provide students with Internships and guide them on career development.
Executives or entrepreneurs with a global perspective who are interested in expanding their reach and impact in the international market.
If you are reading this and see the potential for collaboration, please feel free to connect with me through my LinkedIn profile (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ayeshaashiq/). I am excited about the prospect of collaborating with individuals who share a commitment to excellence and making a positive difference in the business and education sectors.
Email – [email protected]
https://topmate.io/dr_ayesha_ashiq_phd
Contact Info:
- Website: https://eladder4u.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ayeshaguddi/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ayeshaaguddy?mibextid=ZbWKwL
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/ayeshaashiq
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/Guddy76
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8BwGhJVy4UA
Image Credits
1. Invitation for Academic Insights Education Excellence Awards 2023 – Strategic Educational and HR Leader – Award 17th December 2023 2. office picture 2017 in Dubai 3. Office Ramadan Ceremony in Dubai 2016 4. Office Picture Casual 2016 5. Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile – visiting my son in 2017 6. Ph.D. honorary award ceremony 2020 at HSC University – Hyderabad India 7. Global Achievers Award 2021 by Indian Achievers’ Forum 2021 -2022 8. New York Bull visiting as a Tourist 9. New England Collage – New Hamshire, pictures with my college mates and Professors- 2018 – 2019 – Master of Science – Computer Information System 10. Eladder4U company Logo for branding
