You don’t grow despite challenges, you grow because of them

You don’t grow despite challenges, you grow because of them
At eChai Ventures, our Unforgettable Lessons series highlights the defining truths founders learn not from success, but from the obstacles that shaped them.

For CA Swati Panchal, that truth was forged in the moments when ambition looked unreasonable, when starting over felt endless, and when resilience became her greatest strength.

Here’s how she tells it:

“I come from a small town where the idea of pursuing Chartered Accountancy was considered too ambitious, especially without a business background. But I took that leap. From Dahod to Ahmedabad to Mumbai, I followed the path less taken and embraced every risk that came with it.

At 20, I became a Chartered Accountant, and soon after, I built my own firm from scratch. Every setback, from personal loss to starting afresh after relocations, didn’t stop me. They shaped me. They made me stronger.

Over the years, I’ve worn many hats: Chartered Accountant, Author, Anchor, Startup Mentor, Podcast Host, and Advisor. My work has spanned forensic accounting, NBFC advisory, fintech, corporate finance, and startup mentorship. I’ve hosted TV shows, contributed to national platforms, delivered keynotes at leading forums, and written for business and finance media.

The recognitions, from Times of India’s 40 Under 40 Leader of Tomorrow to being honoured as Humanity Star by the Gujarat Police, are milestones, but not the measure. For me, growth has always come from the challenges that forced me to adapt, rebuild, and push further.

eChai has been a powerful part of that ecosystem, a space where knowledge flows freely, collaborations thrive, and founders build together. For me, entrepreneurship isn’t just about starting up; it’s about vision, resilience, and creating lasting impact.

From small-town dreams to mentoring startups at i-Hub, GTU, LJ University, and Parul University incubation centres, my journey is proof that every challenge carries the seed of growth, if you choose to see it that way.

Because you don’t grow despite challenges, you grow because of them.”
Startup Stream

The eChai Effect - In Their Words

"eChai has been a game-changer for Hungrito, providing us with invaluable connections, insights, and opportunities that have significantly fueled our growth. eChai has introduced us to a global network of entrepreneurs and experts, fueling our growth and opening doors to new opportunities from Ahmedabad to Dubai. The community has become like a second family to us, providing support, guidance, and valuable insights as startup entrepreneurs."
Sahil Shah - Founder- Hungrito & Netsavvies. Digital Marketing Evangelist
Sahil Shah
Founder- Hungrito & Netsavvies. Digital Marketing Evangelist
“When we launched LegalWiz.in back in 2016, concept of procuring legal and compliance services through a digital commerce platform wasn't as prominent in India. eChai played a significant role in providing the early adopters, and building significant positioning in the startup fraternity. Overtime, eChai grew to be a massive network of like-minded entrepreneurs and extended that benefit to all the members in a true "co-rise" spirit. I personally love to attend eChai events, learn from subject matter experts who share relatable and actionable insights and experiences. For startup journeys, it is so important to be surrounded by people who can add relevance, perspective, and push you to do better. Most importantly a group of people where you aren't being judged about things going right or wrong, but be a motivational force that keeps you going, yet keeping you in check. eChai is that place for me!”
Shrijay Sheth - Founder at LegalWiz.in and Hire4Higher Consulting
Shrijay Sheth
Founder at LegalWiz.in and Hire4Higher Consulting
"eChai isn’t just a startup community … it’s a mindset . eChai has been one of the most impactful communities in my entrepreneurial journey. It’s been a turning point . In a world where building something can often feel isolating, eChai gave me a sense of belonging. I’ve found mentors, collaborators, and friends here — people who genuinely want to see you succeed. It’s a space where ideas are challenged, actions are celebrated, and founders grow not just in scale, but in clarity and confidence. From late-night ideas to early-morning pitches, this community has quietly but powerfully shaped the way I build, think, and dream. I’ll always be grateful for the way eChai creates spaces where founders don’t just grow businesses — they grow together."
Koumal Kalantry - Founder, Bignano Ventures
Koumal Kalantry
Founder, Bignano Ventures

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