Tahmina Shaikh

Startup Description Proudly building India’s first floriculture skincare brand. By utilizing naturally derived actives, we offer advanced skincare solutions that match the performance of synthetic ingredients—delivering highly effective results without compromising on safety or gentleness.

Founder Journey With over eight years of experience in the beauty and skincare industry, my entrepreneurial journey began while I was pursuing my degree in Business Management. Driven by a lifelong passion for cosmetics and skincare, I launched my career in 2017 as a third-party distributor for international brands entering the Indian market. Recognizing emerging trends, I became an early adopter of social commerce, pioneering direct sales on Instagram long before it became a standard retail channel.

Over the years, I have cultivated extensive expertise in e-commerce and Direct-to-Consumer (D2C) operations, navigating the complexities of scaling businesses within this dynamic industry.

In 2022, I channeled this deep industry knowledge into my own venture, beginning the research and development phase for Tahmi’s Choice. The subsequent years presented profound personal challenges, as my father was diagnosed with liver cancer, culminating in a transplant in 2024. Despite navigating these significant hospital struggles, my commitment to building Tahmi’s Choice never wavered.

During this demanding period in 2024, I independently formulated and produced a small-batch night cream. The overwhelmingly positive reception from our early customers validated my vision and fueled my dedication. Today, representing a culmination of industry expertise, personal resilience, and a genuine passion for skincare, Tahmi’s Choice is slated for its official launch in the coming months.

Early Journey and Origin My entrepreneurial drive began at a young age while I was still a student navigating my education. At just 18 years old, I launched my very first venture, thegirlzkoner. The concept for my current business stemmed from a deep-seated passion for entrepreneurship and a lifelong desire to run my own company. Having always maintained a strong interest in makeup and skincare, I took the initiative to independently educate myself on the industry.

Overcoming Challenges The most significant hurdle I have encountered is navigating the fundraising process as a female entrepreneur. Securing capital proved to be the most difficult aspect of my journey, often characterized by encounters where investors appeared dismissive or reluctant to engage in equitable negotiations.

Major Milestones The defining milestone of my career has been the development and imminent launch of Tahmi's Choice. Entrepreneurship demands a relentless commitment to conquering whatever challenges arise; once you commit to this path, there is no turning back.