In today’s feature, we shine a spotlight on a visionary entrepreneur whose journey embodies resilience, innovation, and passion. Ankita Shah is the Managing Director of Ashoka Stationers Limited and the Founder & Director of Akira Pearl Events. With over 3.5 years in the stationery industry and close to a year in event planning, Ankita has carved a name for herself as a dynamic leader who thrives on building legacies and creating meaningful experiences.
Let’s dive into her inspiring story.
Tell us your full name and nickname that your family and friends love to call you by
My full name is Ankita Shah, and my nickname is simply Ankita.
What field are you in professionally?
I am the Managing Director of Ashoka Stationers Limited, a company I proudly expanded from my father’s legacy.
I am also the Founder & Director of Akira Pearl Events, where I bring my passion for creating memorable experiences to life.
How long have you been working in this field?
- Ashoka Stationers Ltd: Over 3 and a half years
- Akira Pearl Events: Over 10 months
Please describe yourself in a few words
I see myself as driven, passionate, and committed to creating value—both in business and in people’s lives.
Can you share a little about your journey—how you started and what inspired you to pursue your career or passion?
I founded Ashoka Stationers Limited in 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic, while spending time at home. Growing up, my father was a wholesaler in the stationery industry, and I wanted to build on his legacy. My vision was to create a company that offered both retail and wholesale stationery products, making them accessible to a wider audience. Since then, Ashoka has grown, and I’m proud to be carrying forward my father’s dream.
In 2024, I founded Akira Pearl Events, inspired by my involvement with the Rotary Club Peponi Nairobi. Being part of such a dynamic, community-focused group opened my eyes to the power of creating memorable events that bring people together. It sparked a passion in me to pursue event planning professionally. Starting Akira Pearl Events was a natural next step, combining my love for organization with the desire to create meaningful experiences for others.
What were some of the biggest challenges you faced on your path, and how did you overcome them?
One of the biggest challenges was starting Ashoka Stationers during the COVID-19 pandemic, a time when many businesses were struggling. With limited in-person interactions, creating awareness and building trust was difficult. I leaned heavily on digital marketing to reach customers, build credibility, and create a strong online presence.
For Akira Pearl Events, the challenge was establishing trust in a competitive industry. Being new, convincing clients to choose us wasn’t easy. I overcame this by building strong relationships, networking through Rotary Club connections, and showcasing results through smaller successful events. Staying flexible and attentive to client needs helped us grow a loyal customer base.
How do you prioritize self-care and wellness while balancing a demanding career and personal life?
I make self-care non-negotiable. Setting boundaries, making time for exercise, maintaining proper rest, and staying connected with loved ones keeps me balanced. Nutrition and routines are equally important in helping me perform well both at work and in life.
What does beauty mean to you, and how has your relationship with it evolved over the years?
To me, beauty is confidence, authenticity, and being comfortable in my own skin. Over the years, I’ve shifted from focusing on external appearances to embracing inner strength and self-acceptance. True beauty, I’ve realized, is authenticity.
What advice would you give to young women who are trying to find their confidence or pursue their dreams?
Trust yourself and embrace your unique journey. Don’t fear risks or mistakes—they are stepping stones to growth. Confidence builds with every step you take. Surround yourself with supportive people, and never let fear or small mindsets limit your potential.
What are your go-to skincare tips or products that you swear by for keeping your skin glowing and healthy?
- Stay hydrated
- Get enough sleep
- Maintain a consistent skincare routine
- Cleanse regularly to remove impurities
- Use sunscreen daily
- Eat a balanced diet full of fruits and vegetables
- Avoid touching your face unnecessarily
- De-stress and practice self-care regularly
What’s next for you? Are there any projects, goals, or dreams you’re excited about and working towards?
I’m thrilled to share that last month, my sister and I opened a new branch of Ashoka Stationers Limited in Kiambu at Nine Park Square. This expansion marks an exciting step forward, and I look forward to reaching more customers and growing our brand. The journey is just beginning, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds!
✨ Final Thoughts
Ankita Shah’s journey is a powerful reminder that success stems from resilience, innovation, and authenticity. From expanding her father’s legacy in the stationery business to creating unique experiences through events, Ankita continues to inspire others with her vision and dedication.
