Aswini Bajaj, a highly accomplished finance professional, renowned educator, and a corporate coach, continues to make a significant impact in the realm of finance and education on a global scale. With an extensive range of qualifications, having more than 12 educational degrees including CA, CS, CFA, FRM, CAIA, CIPM, CFP, RV, CCRA, CIIB, CIRA, and AIM, Bajaj has emerged as a leading figure in the field, imparting his expertise to over 25,000 students across 100 countries. Notable milestones in his illustrious career include completing a decade of mentoring students in finance, earning a place in the "International Books of Record" for training over 12,000 students in Personal Finance through the Narsee Monjee Finance & Investment Cell, and being honoured as the Best Finance Trainer in India by the India Education Awards in 2019. Aswini Bajaj was one of the 40 best finance trainers in India in 2021.
What is the secret of achieving so much in this short span of time?
Although it has been more than 10 years, and there is still a long way to go, the one thing that I believe led me here was valuing my own time. We need to know and be clear about what we want and the trade-offs or sacrifices we must make to achieve them. We cannot be doing two things at once or be in two places at once. Hence, we need to own up to our choices unapologetically. I know my priorities; I know what I need to give time to and what I need to say 'No' to. Based on my profile, one might feel that it's 'all work and no play,' but those who know me know me beyond my education and work.
Placed in the "International Books of Records." What’s next?
This was not something planned, and although any recognition is a windfall, it was definitely exciting, and I am glad that it came my way. I had posted a video on '4 kinds of Luck' on YouTube, and the 4th kind played a role in this. I would be remiss if I do not acknowledge that a big chunk of the credit goes to my team, without whose support this feat couldn't have happened; this is only the beginning. Currently, I am involved in a couple of very impactful projects with tremendous potential. There's so much untapped talent in India. I would be happy to share the details once we are closer to launch. Also, I am on my way to complete my 100th Guest Lecture at a university/college very soon.
Let us know about Leveraged Growth and your role as CEO
Leveraged Growth started with some freelance projects with just one student of mine years back. Today, we are a formidable team of CFA Charter holders and CFA, FRM aspirants, providing consulting services to start-ups with focus on valuations, pitch decks, etc.; we also provide management consulting to SMEs and companies in the listed space. My students form the entire team, which, I believe, makes the office environment fun and very learning oriented, experimenting on very unique projects and business models. I use a phrase – 'Apply what I teach, and teach what I apply.' A virtuous cycle exists here - the consulting provides me insights into the industry, thus improving the quality of my teaching, and the teaching gives me a very strong base in Finance to be able to understand and offer industry-beneficial solutions quickly.Share
Share your motivation to release "Invest In Yourself."
The motivation behind releasing "Invest In Yourself" stems from my personal commitment to this principle. I personally do not like to be called an influencer, as there is a lot of hypocrisy there. I simply share what is an unfiltered byproduct of my experiences, thoughts, readings, and mentoring sessions with my students on social media. Investing in 'YOURSELF' is the most important investment you can make, given the ever evolving contexts of technology, business, and the world at large. At the end of the day, it is YOU and no one else to take care of you and your mindset.
You are a rare combination who has mixed hobbies with career goals successfully.
Reading, coupled with my curiosity about how the world runs, plays a significant role in this combination. I'm always open to exploring new opportunities. I am very curious by nature and always willing to experiment and get out of my comfort zone, if it's worth the time. For example, whenever I travel, I want to know about the place; I talk to the locals over there and try to understand a little history of the place. This combination of reading, traveling, and continuous learning may sound clichéd, but it truly resonates with me. I do want to learn more. It's a short life, and I want to grow. Something like “Udna chahta hu, bass rukna nahi chahta hoon”.
Any initiative taken for Tier 2 & Tier 3 cities?
There is a tremendous untapped potential in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, and all it requires is a bit of direction, and I hope I am able to contribute towards it. With our YouTube channel and active presence on social media, our lectures and educational content are readily available to students worldwide, including those in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. Whenever I visit any city, India or abroad, I always organize a meet-up session, which anyone is welcome to attend. We are also planning to launch a work-from-home internship program soon to enable students across the country to be able to participate along with the online annual competitions hosted by LG for grad and postgrad students.
How you keep connected with your audience?
I had posted on Instagram stating that 'My opinions are not for sale.' Hence, there is no conflict of interest in what I say, as I never endorse anything for money. Also, given that I am connected with so many students personally, I have some insights into what are the challenges they face, and accordingly, I try to guide them through the noise and distractions. Unlike most people who say things people want to hear on social media to grow followers, I am quite straightforward and say things that people need to hear. Telling the unfiltered truth, I believe, goes a longer way than 'paid stints.'
Your next goal?
I already have a lot planned for the next couple of years. My goal is to firstly set systems into place at work for better organization. Secondly, I need to complete the unfinished projects in hand. Thirdly, I would like to focus on my health. The underlining term here is 'Execution.'
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