Sprinkling the story with humour that started with a cricket team as siblings, a mountainous trek to school and even longer walk to exams, we were enthralled with the pace and nostalgia of a time when 7th grade exams were a rite of passage. It was easy to see Edward take the entrepreneurial leap after coming from a family steeped in multiple businesses – mango, poultry, grocery, apparel, soda shop (for thirsty shoppers), etc. Leadership, too, was his forte with experiences in ICYM, altar boys’ prefecture, and other youth and parish committees – which he continues to date.

From exploring the basics of electricity and shopping for enamel wires, Edward credits a lot of his learning from his earliest employment. From living on a shoestring budget and struggling in bachelor accommodation to learning about Accountancy and HR, he learned how to nurture his entrepreneurial dream through engineering, a big leap of faith that he took in 1991-2. An entrepreneur’s journey is a soul journey – it was our privilege to witness Edward sharing humour, practicalities as well the painful emotions of grief, doubt, and struggle. Members were in awe as they asked him how he kept himself motivated for 8 years before his perseverance fructified as success. It was deeply touching to see his wife, Lilly and children, Elton & Elvia, step up to supportively answer some questions – Edward’s humility showed up in his family’s strength to share on his behalf as well. While Lilly shared a glimpse of his resolute dedication to his dream with persistence, Elton and Elvia spoke of his humility and his motivation to show up.

Some key Quality takeaways & advice from Edward:

6Ms of Management: Man, Machines, Materials, Methods, Measurements and Money.

5S: Sort, Set in Order, Shine, Standardize and Sustain.

Pancha Sutras: Conviction, Domain Knowledge, Passion, Innovation & Commitment to Excellence.

For the evolving world: Remain flexible – adaptable – result oriented.

Overall, to update – upgrade – or get outdated.

This must have been one of the many profound stories witnessed at Founders’ Fiesta that bond first over breakfast and then breathes life into the spirit of the members by simply acknowledging the sheer grit, determination, power of perseverance and of course business acumen and vision. The morning wrapped up on time followed with some profound questions from the members. KE Lead Member, Robinson D’Souza brought the evening to a seamless close by presenting Edward and Lilly with a memento. On an aside, this Founders’ Fiesta also saw a transition of reins of programs, from Eugene Mathias who facilitated the conversation to Deon Gomes. We would like to thank Eugene for his consistent effort and wish Deon all the best to take the Founders’ Fiesta to newer and better heights of success!