Dr. Alefia Poonawala traded medicine for little minds — and built a 17-year-old preschool along the way. She wanted to be a doctor since the 8th grade. She became one. She loved medicine. And then, after years of studying and hard work, she chose to walk away from it. Not because she had stopped loving medicine. But because motherhood made her discover another calling. Meet Dr. Alefia Poonawala, the woman behind Creative Kids, a preschool that has now been nurturing young min

Some people spend years planning their careers. Others stumble upon theirs almost by accident. A.K. Rahman belongs to the second category. A pharmacy-trained professional who traded prescriptions for performances, going on to spend two decades captivating audiences across the world. Then came an opportunity to interact, speak and connect with people. What began as an unexpected chance gradually became a profession and, eventually, a way of life. “I got into this by accident,

Some people build businesses by following trends. Others build them by quietly mastering a craft, year after year, until their work begins to speak for itself. For Moiz Kopti, proprietor of Printology Concept, the journey has never been just about printing. It has been about transforming ordinary spaces into experiences that leave a lasting impression. For over fifteen years, Moiz has been at the forefront of the large-format printing industry, creating customised visual solu

Some dreams arrive early in life. For some, they evolve over time. But for this Mumbai-based aviation professional, there was never any confusion. He was in the ninth standard when he decided that one day he would sit in the cockpit of a commercial aircraft. While many teenagers were still figuring out what they wanted to become, he had already charted his flight path. Today, that childhood dream has taken him to the captain's seat at IndiGo Airlines, where he has proudly ser

Some people discover their passion early. Others spend years searching for it. For Mr. Ujwal Poojari, swimming became more than just a sport—it became a lifelong purpose. Born into a close-knit family that is characterized by warmth and support, Ujwal often finds joy in recounting his childhood memories, proudly laughing as he declares, "I'm the big one!" This playful proclamation reflects not only his role as the eldest sibling but also the bond he shares with his parents, y

Every Mumbaikar has that one moment that changes everything. For Zuhayr Kazi, it wasn't a classroom, a cricket ground, or a football stadium—it was a walk into the iconic Taj Hotel in Mumbai. Born and brought up in Mumbai, Zuhayr grew up in a supportive family that always encouraged him to dream big. Like many youngsters, he chose the Science stream and imagined a future in engineering. At the same time, he nurtured another dream—representing India in cricket or football. Lif

Some people discover their calling after years of searching. For Azmin Mistry Vania, it began much earlier. Long before she stepped into a classroom as a teacher, she found herself helping classmates understand lessons that seemed complicated. While others memorised information, Azmin instinctively broke concepts into smaller pieces, created mind maps, and explained ideas in ways that made learning easier. Without realising it, she was already doing what great teachers do bes

Dr. Vivek Jogani is a highly respected Pediatric and Preventive Dentist, and Orofacial Myotherapist whose career has been dedicated to improving children's oral health and overall well-being. An award-winning practitioner, he received the Best National Oral Presentation Award at ISPPD 2011 and has authored several national and international publications. With over 17 years of experience, he specializes in pediatric root canals, fillings, extractions, trauma management, and th

For many professionals, success is measured by titles, achievements, and recognition. But for Purvi Shah Asher, success has always been deeply rooted in purpose — helping people, upholding integrity, and creating balance in life while excelling in a demanding profession. A daughter, sister, wife, and full-time working mother to a teenage son, Purvi Shah Asher represents the modern Indian woman who seamlessly balances multiple roles while staying true to her values. Born, educ

For Jehan Adenwalla, Executive Sous Chef at The St. Regis Mumbai, the journey into the culinary world began long before luxury hotels, professional kitchens, and leadership roles. It started at home, in his grandmother's kitchen, where his love for food first took shape. Many successful careers begin with a defining moment, but for Jehan, it was a collection of small moments spent observing, learning, and helping in the kitchen. The aromas of freshly prepared meals, the warmt

For Devendra Pandey, journalism was never part of a grand career plan. There was no childhood dream of becoming a reporter, nor was there a carefully mapped-out path into the media industry. In fact, as he candidly admits, journalism happened largely by chance. Today, however, he serves as Deputy Associate Editor at The Indian Express, one of India's most respected newspapers, and has spent over two decades building a reputation as a trusted voice in sports journalism. His jo

Through Mumbaikar Hustle, our endeavor is simple — to bring forward the inspiring journeys of everyday Mumbaikars who dared to dream differently, worked relentlessly, overcame challenges, and eventually found success in fields they genuinely love. But this platform is not only about celebrating success stories. It is also about creating guidance, awareness, and direction for the next generation. Along with sharing their journeys, we hope these individuals will help young mind