In conversation with Avantika Kampani, a 14-year old Leading a Platform for Self-growth of Toddlers
There is no age to start new things, and seeing young minds, as young as 14 years of age starting entrepreneurship platforms and creative organisations is nothing but inspirational. And so is the story of Avantika Kamplani. Avantika Kampani is currently 14-year old, completing education at Dhirubhai Ambani International School. And this 14-year old leading a platform for self-growth of toddlers is equivalent to setting tough targets for many out there.
Last year, amid the pandemic she launched her company, Day One Learning Solutions in the year 2020 amid pandemic with a mission to bring about a revolution in children’s self-growth & development from the time they’re born. The first product of that company is ‘Seekh’ making it, Seekh by Day One.
About Seekh by Day One
Seekh by Day One is a learning tool that will enhance your new-born child’s capacity to learn, and simultaneously make them fall in love with learning. Seekh consists of 6 sections, containing a variety of learning, interactive flashcards each one helping your child’s brain grow, as well as giving you some tips on how to strengthen your child’s character from DayOne. Divided into 6 sections, with 72 cards that each tap into different touchpoints of your child’s cognitive capabilities.
We got a chance to chat with Avantika, and here is our conversation with her –
1. From where did you get the idea to create a space like that of Seekh DayOne
Living with my little cousin, I began to notice the way that babies really looked at things around them, their constant questioning, curiosity and alertness caught my attention and that was the starting point of my journey.
This led to research on early brain development only to find that from birth to age 5, a child’s brain develops more than at any other time in life. The idea was to develop a single tool that would cover many areas of growth and yet be attractive, fun and easy to use and travel-friendly. This was where the concept of the 6 sections came about, and Seekh was well on its way to becoming a reality.
2.You are quite young and at such an early age, you have come up with something so unique. Maybe 5 years down the line, where do you see Seekh DayOne standing?
It may sound cliche but I truly believe age is just a number and the future is based on what you do today. I am always learning more about the concept and exploring different aspects. Seekh is the first offering from DayOne and will always be the most special. I want parents to think of Seekh as an investment into their child’s future. At this point, I am exploring ways to reach as many children as possible. From early development centers to retail stores, it has all been very interesting and encouraging. I also plan to have regional language translations for the box- Hindi being the first step.
Under my company DayOne, I would like to introduce several more products that help enhance child and infant development. As for 5 years down the line, I hope my second product which is in the research phase, receives as warm and motivating a response as Seekh has.
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3. How did your parents react when you first told them about your idea?
My parents were very encouraging and I think that was important because it allowed me to explore my idea and turn it into a reality, and eventually a successful business venture. They also encouraged me to do the Young Entrepreneurs Academy program seriously because without a clear plan, learning, perseverance and strategy this would have remained purely an aspiration. I have immense gratitude for my parents and my mentors.
4. Though it would be quite early for you to have a firm idea about this, what do you aspire to do?
I aspire to make learning a part of everyday routines from the first day of a child’s life. It should not be forced. It should be colourful, fun, exploratory and accessible to all.
Our country has used art and music as a part of learning since ancient times, maybe unboxing some of the old ways and adding a bit of the new modern techniques would be a good way forward. We have a very large youth population and I hope that in some way I can contribute to giving us a head start.
5. Tell us about your hobbies
Art and music are closest to my heart as I truly believe that they have the power to transform, illuminate and educate. I have leveraged my passion for art and early education and developed a unique pack of cards that promotes holistic development from DayOne.
I also love to sing both in Hindi and English. I enjoy playing the keyboard and ukulele and painting in my free time. It energises me and allows me to express my thoughts into reality!
6. You set an example for age is not the limit. What message would you like to give to the people out there?
I am humbled by this question. I have never thought of age as a factor in my journey. I believe we are lucky that we are at a time in the world that ideas are judged for their potential alone and opportunities are available for anyone who is willing to put in the effort. I plan to keep researching, developing and creating. It is what I love best and I think that’s the best message at this point I can share.
Inspire and be inspired is what we learn from Avantika Kamplani. Let us know what your favourite takeaway from this conversation is in the comments.
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