Mysore/Mysuru: The B.N. Bahadur Institute of Management Sciences (BIMS), University of Mysore, celebrated International Women’s Day on Mar. 8 at the Rani Bahadur Auditorium with the United Nations (UN) theme ‘DigitALL: Innovation and Technology for Gender Equality.’

Under the theme, the UN wants to highlight the need for inclusive and transformative technology and digital education. It recognises and celebrates women and girls who are championing the advancement of transformative technology and digital education and curtailing the impact of the digital gender gap on widening economic and social inequalities.

The event’s chief guest was Chayaa Nanjappa, an award-winning entrepreneur and Founder and Managing Partner of Nectar Fresh. The event was attended by nearly 150-200 first and final-year management students of the institute.

“Having a vision, being driven by passion complemented with dedication and hard work are key to every achievement,” said Chayaa Nanjappa, in her address. Speaking about her entrepreneurial journey, she highlighted the course of events that led to the success of her brand.  “The success of Nectar Fresh which was started with the sole intention and passion for promoting quality honey has grown worldwide — being one of the major players in the hotel and hospitality industry in India and abroad. Quality and credibility are the factors that have brought them to where they are today,” she said.

Speaking on expansion, she explained how the company diversified into manufacturing jams during the pandemic when farmers faced difficulty to sell totapuri mangoes. This also helped sustain the business. “Today, the brand has expanded itself into several agro-based products such as fruit jams, chia seeds, flax seeds, coffee and even dry fruits. The expansion circles around the sustenance and development of rural farmers,” she added.

Chayaa Nanjappa said that her passion and perseverance made her the person she is today. She also mentioned how critical was the role of her father and husband in her establishing the brand. “Together as a couple, with like-minded thoughts and ideas, we have been instrumental in giving back to society to empower and make a difference,” she said.

She also shed light on following ethics in all practices and encouraged the students to reach greater heights.

Chairman of BIMS  Prof. D. Anand presided. Faculty Prof. S.J. Manjunath, Prof. R. Mahesh and Dr. M. Amulya were present. The event was coordinated by Sri Prasad, Liaison Officer.