Biography of Pooja Kaul: Founder of Organiko-India’s first donkey milk skincare brand
Story of Pooja Kaul: A Visionary Entrepreneur
Pooja Kaul, an illustrious social entrepreneur, is the
founder of Organiko, a pioneering skincare brand that utilizes donkey milk, a
revered beauty secret from ancient Egypt. Her journey from a curious student to
a successful entrepreneur is a remarkable tale of innovation and determination.
Kaul’s story is a testament to her commitment to social change and her ability
to transform unconventional ideas into impactful ventures.
Early Beginnings and Education
Pooja Kaul's academic journey began at Dayal Singh College,
University of Delhi, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science
and History. This foundational education ignited her interest in societal
issues and the power of entrepreneurship. Driven by a desire to effect
meaningful change, she pursued a Master’s Degree in Social Innovations and
Entrepreneurship at the Tata Institute of Social Sciences, which further shaped
her vision for creating social impact through business.
A New Idea: Donkey Milk Skincare
During her studies at the Tata Institute of Social Sciences,
Kaul was introduced to the concept of using donkey milk, an ingredient
historically used for its beauty benefits. This ancient secret intrigued her,
leading her to explore its potential in modern skincare. Despite facing skepticism,
she was resolute in her mission to develop a skincare line based on this unique
ingredient.
The Birth of Organiko
In December 2019, Pooja Kaul launched Organiko-Beautifying
Life, India’s first skincare brand dedicated to using donkey milk. Organiko stands
out for its commitment to clean, chemical-free skincare products. The brand
focuses on harnessing the natural anti-aging, nutritional, and therapeutic
properties of donkey milk to offer effective and sustainable skincare
solutions.
Overcoming Challenges
Starting a business in a small town presented its own set of
challenges. Pooja faced socio-cultural obstacles, including resistance from
local communities and gender biases. Despite these hurdles, she remained
undeterred, motivated by her vision to create employment opportunities and
improve the livelihoods of donkey rearers and local women.
Building a Sustainable Model
Organiko’s business model is designed to be socially
responsible and sustainable. By sourcing donkey milk from farmers in regions like
Solapur, Ghaziabad, and Dasna, the brand not only provides a steady income for
these farmers but also ensures ethical treatment of the animals. The milk is
used to produce high-quality skincare products, with a focus on maintaining
both efficacy and environmental sustainability.
Recognition and Awards
Pooja Kaul’s innovative approach and dedication to social
entrepreneurship have earned her widespread recognition. She was honored with
the Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia Award and received the Princess of Wales The Diana
Award in 2020. In 2022, she was recognized by the Ministry of MSME as an
Emerging Woman Entrepreneur. These accolades underscore the impact of her work
and her role as a leading figure in the social entrepreneurship landscape.
Expanding Horizons
Kaul’s commitment to social impact extends beyond Organiko.
She serves as a part-time member of the Startup India Seed Fund Selection
Committee at NIT Jalandhar, where she helps evaluate and support emerging
startups. Her involvement in various initiatives demonstrates her dedication to
fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.
Empowering Youth and Women
Pooja is also engaged with global projects aimed at
empowering youth and women. Through her role with Youthtopia and as a Change
Ambassador for She for Change, she contributes to educational initiatives
aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These roles allow
her to advocate for social change and mentor the next generation of leaders.
Teaching and Mentoring
In addition to her entrepreneurial ventures, Pooja Kaul has
served as a guest faculty member at the Development Management Institute (DMI)
in Patna. Her work as a guest lecturer in social entrepreneurship reflects her
passion for teaching and mentoring aspiring social entrepreneurs.
Fostering Innovation and Collaboration
Pooja’s involvement with various organizations, such as
BeyonDiversity and FIED IIM Kashipur, highlights her role in supporting and
nurturing innovative ideas. As a fellow at BeyonDiversity and an incubatee at
FIED IIM Kashipur, she has contributed to advancing diverse entrepreneurial
initiatives and fostering a collaborative ecosystem for startups.
Challenges and Triumphs
Throughout her journey, Pooja Kaul has faced numerous
challenges, including socio-cultural barriers and market skepticism. However,
her perseverance and innovative spirit have enabled her to overcome these
obstacles and build a successful enterprise. Her story is a powerful example of
how determination and vision can lead to remarkable achievements.
Community Impact
Organiko’s impact on local communities is profound. By
providing a stable source of income for donkey rearers and creating job
opportunities for women, Pooja has significantly improved the socio-economic
conditions of these communities. Her work has led to a more sustainable and
equitable model for utilizing local resources.
Biography of Pooja Kaul: Founder of Organiko-India’s first donkey milk skincare brand/Entrepreneur/Investor/Age/Net worth/Organiko story/ Pooja Kaul
Advancing Sustainable Practices
Pooja’s commitment to sustainability is evident in
Organiko’s approach to using natural ingredients and ethical practices. The
brand’s focus on sustainability extends to its production processes, packaging,
and overall business operations, reflecting Kaul’s dedication to environmental
stewardship and social responsibility.
Navigating Gender Biases
As a female entrepreneur in a traditionally male-dominated
field, Pooja has navigated various gender biases and societal expectations. Her
resilience and determination have enabled her to challenge these norms and pave
the way for other women in entrepreneurship.
Supporting Future Entrepreneurs
Pooja Kaul’s contributions to the entrepreneurial ecosystem
go beyond her own venture. Through her involvement in various mentorship
programs and advisory roles, she actively supports and inspires aspiring
entrepreneurs, sharing her knowledge and experience to help them succeed.
Leveraging Awards for Growth
The awards and recognitions Pooja has received have not only
validated her efforts but also provided opportunities for growth and expansion.
These accolades have enhanced Organiko’s visibility and credibility, allowing
the brand to reach a broader audience and achieve greater impact.
Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Pooja Kaul envisions expanding Organiko’s
reach and impact. Her goal is to continue innovating in the skincare industry
while maintaining the brand’s commitment to social responsibility and
sustainability. She is also dedicated to exploring new avenues for supporting
underprivileged communities and promoting ethical business practices.
A Legacy of Change
Pooja Kaul’s journey is a testament to the power of
entrepreneurship in driving social change. Her work with Organiko and her
various initiatives demonstrate how innovative ideas, when combined with a
commitment to social impact, can create lasting positive change in communities
and industries.
Conclusion
Pooja Kaul’s entrepreneurial journey with
Organiko-Beautifying Life exemplifies the intersection of innovation, social
responsibility, and personal dedication. Her story inspires others to pursue
their passions, overcome challenges, and make a meaningful difference in the
world. Through her continued efforts, she is shaping the future of skincare and
social entrepreneurship in India and beyond.
Timeline for Pooja Kaul’s story
2019: Launched Organiko, India’s first donkey milk skincare
brand.
2020: Received Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia Award and Princess of
Wales The Diana Award.
2022: Honored as an Emerging Woman Entrepreneur by the
Ministry of MSME.
2024: Continues involvement with various mentorship and
advisory roles, expanding Organiko’s reach and impact.
