Imagine growing up in a wealthy family, yet feeling the pinch of a middle-class mindset that restrains you from accessing the luxuries you always desired. That was my reality, which I know is also the reality of so many people with similar backgrounds. Back in school days – I used to see people around me flaunt their branded possessions, and then there was me who patiently waited for season-end offers only to please my parents whilst also prioritizing my needs.

As I moved forward in life, “The Story” remained the same but it only fuelled my desire for a taste of luxury. I delved into market explorations, not with the intent to purchase, but to unravel the intricate dance of pricing and demand. This habit ignited a passion for fashion and entrepreneurship, offering me a peek into the world of sellers and sparking visions for my own entrepreneurial journey.

In due course of time, I was able to answer all the Why’s, What’s and How’s circulating in my head thanks to the advice I got back then at the first day of my orientation at Ernst & Young – “If you want to grow up the corporate ladder, start building on your network”. Indeed, networking is everything.

In February 2023, I took a leap of faith, drawing from years of corporate experience, research, and a vast network to give birth to the idea of forming a Corporate Umbrella (ARC7). However, the entrepreneurial path is almost never a straight road. Multiple setbacks forced me to pause and redirect, leading me to temporarily seek solace in a stable job, putting my dreams on hold until I re-group. During this challenging time, there was no plan to resume entrepreneurship for at-least another couple of years. It would not be wrong if I say that it was still those dreams that put me to sleep every night, depressed but with the hope one day I will wake up with a stronger vision and beliefs, waiting for the right time.

“But what Allah plans for us is always better than what we do”

I just knew that fate had a bigger plan for me, and I was right. It did happen. With a main character’s energy, as if in a Bollywood film, my old friend reappeared on the scene. We first met in 2021 and used to live in the same room in a shared apartment with 19 people. One of the many reasons why that accommodation turned out to be my favourite one was him. He always has been a like-minded person and believed in me which was a critical factor while I was scouting for my future business partner.

Our paths crossed again in March 2024, reigniting our shared passion for business. Together, with a renewed sense of purpose while doing a full-time job, we meticulously crafted ARC7, shaping it with two major divisions and four sub-divisions, turning every stone with unwavering determination. Soon after, we agreed to move on and let fate decide our re-union, again.

Today, as the Founder of ARC7, I stand proud, adding those little bits of happiness everyone deserves in this ever-competing world. This journey has been a testament to perseverance, faith, and the power of dreams. Join us at ARC7 as we redefine entrepreneurship and carve a path for the future.

“The Story” remains the same, just that now I no longer feel poor.

Alhamdulillah for everything!

Adnan Chougle, Founder of ARC7