As an animal lover and PETA volunteer, Devika Srimal gave up leather few years ago and had a tough time finding good non-leather shoes that were stylish, good quality and affordable. she noticed the unstructured footwear industry in India- that either have the non-Indian players that are expensive and mostly do leather shoes or the unorganized segment where quality, price, make etc. is questionable. It was almost a light-bulb moment when she thought ‘what the heck, I should start my own brand!’ And Kanabis was born.

Her brand offers Peta approved Vegan footwear for women. Devika is a winner at the Digital Women Awards'17.

Why did you opt for entrepreneurship?

Before I started my venture, I worked at big corporates but was not truly satisfied at the end of the day. I had an entrepreneurial itch since I was a little girl. I wanted to build something on my own and finally mustered the courage, found my calling and started Kanabis.

It was almost a light-bulb moment- Devika Srimal

What was your biggest road block?

Plenty challenges along the way. I am not from fashion or footwear background, I am a Chartered Accountant who just decided to start a footwear brand! I had to start from scratch -find the right vendors, build the team, understand the product, sales, marketing, all of it had to be done, so lot of unknown variables in the picture.

I am not from fashion or footwear background, I am a Chartered Accountant who just decided to start a footwear brand- Devika Srimal

What was most inspiring in your journey?

Starting my venture and receiving such positive response for our products that now we have repeat customers and orders from overseas as well, is very encouraging. And knowing that with each pair, we are helping save an animal's life is deeply satisfying.

Your three point advise to aspiring women?

Plan, Passion and Perseverance. Have a plan on paper and use all that passion to put it into action!

One thing you would fix if given a chance.

Make people care for animals and stand against cruelty towards animals.

Advise to your younger self?

Carpe Diem- seize the day! Have one life, do everything you aspire to do.