SAA Technology: Aishwarya Srinivasan on Practical IT Skills and Creative Entrepreneurship
In the fast-paced world of technology, degrees often take a backseat to demonstrated ability. Aishwarya Srinivasan, the Founder of SAA Technology and Co-founder of My Mom Art Gallery, is a firm believer in this philosophy. With an MSc in Information Technology, Aishwarya didn't just wait for a corporate role; she started her journey by building a website for her father's business, proving that practical projects are the ultimate currency in the digital age.
Aishwarya's transition into entrepreneurship was driven by a desire to bridge the gap between academic learning and industry needs. "Freshers often struggle to find jobs because they lack 'real-world' experience," she observes. "I decided to create my own experience by experimenting with web design and digital marketing while still in college. That initial project for my father's business was the seed that grew into SAA Technology."
The Project-First Mentality
Aishwarya emphasizes that students should focus on building a portfolio of projects rather than just collecting certificates. "A degree says you studied; a project says you can execute. Whether it's a small website or a digital marketing campaign, having something tangible to show makes you stand out in an industry that rewards practical skill over theory."
Building a Creative Community
Beyond her tech venture, Aishwarya is the driving force behind My Mom Art Gallery, a platform dedicated to supporting artists and making art more accessible. "Art and technology might seem like different worlds, but they both require a creative mind and a vision," she explains. Through the gallery, she has partnered with government bodies like the Tamil Nadu government to promote local talent and bring modern technology into the art space.
This dual focus on IT services and creative arts has allowed Aishwarya to build a diverse team and a unique brand identity. She believes that entrepreneurs should be open to exploring multiple passions, as the skills learned in one field often enhance the other.
Breaking the Communication Barrier
One of the most candid lessons Aishwarya shares is the importance of communication and confidence. "In the Indian business ecosystem, especially in tech, being able to articulate your ideas in English is a major advantage," she notes. She encourages the next generation to work on their soft skills, emphasizing that eye contact and a clear introduction can be just as important as technical expertise during an interview or a client pitch.
Aishwarya is also mindful of the challenges faced by women in the tech industry. She advocates for a more supportive ecosystem where women are encouraged to take up leadership roles and build their own ventures. For Aishwarya, entrepreneurship is a path to empowerment and financial independence.
Aishwarya's Guide for Tech & Creative Founders
- Start Small, Start Now: Don't wait for the perfect opportunity. Build a website for a friend, or start a social media page for a local business.
- Focus on Soft Skills: Technical ability is only half the battle. Work on your communication, confidence, and how you present yourself to the world.
- Build a Portfolio: Document every project you work on. A strong portfolio is more valuable than any resume.
- Embrace Multiple Passions: Don't feel restricted to one niche. Your diverse interests can lead to innovative business models.
The Future of SAA Technology
Looking ahead, Aishwarya aims to scale SAA Technology into a leading digital transformation partner for small and medium-sized businesses. She is also committed to expanding My Mom Art Gallery into a global community for artists. For Aishwarya, the future is about using technology to amplify creativity and ensuring that the next generation of Indian entrepreneurs has the practical skills they need to succeed on a global stage.
Impact at a Glance
- Tech Expertise: Providing specialized IT consultancy and digital marketing services.
- Community Building: Supporting local artists through 'My Mom Art Gallery'.
- Government Collaboration: Partnering with the Tamil Nadu government on creative and tech projects.
About the Guest
Aishwarya Srinivasan is the Founder of SAA Technology and the Co-founder of My Mom Art Gallery. An MSc graduate in Information Technology, Aishwarya is a visionary entrepreneur who is passionate about practical education and creative storytelling. She is a recognized face in the Indian tech and arts community and is a frequent advocate for student empowerment and gender equality in business. Aishwarya is dedicated to helping businesses and artists navigate the digital era with confidence and creativity.
SAA Technology is an IT services and digital marketing agency focused on providing customized solutions for web development, software consulting, and brand growth. My Mom Art Gallery is a creative platform that connects artists with collectors and leverages technology to make art more interactive and accessible to a wider audience.