Geethu Sivakumar: CEO at 22

Being the CEO of a company comes with its benefits. No hassle of applying for leave and getting it approved, never miss a kitty party or a family get-together, easy sneak-outs with friends on a lazy weekday…

Though it does come with its own risks, being your own boss at work makes life a lot better. Geethu Sivakumar lives such a colourful life. As a student, most of us dream of landing a steady job or getting a higher degree from a prestigious institute. But Geethu completed her studies as the head of Pace Hitech, her own venture.

Learn, work, lead

Learning for Geethu wasn't limited to schoolbooks. Absorbing from the world outside made her the boss of a software firm at the age of 22. The first recognition came in the form of a fellowship from Rajiv Gandhi Centre for bio-technology aged 12. The dream of leading her own way in the IT sector was kindled during a Japan visit. She headed the Indian team of students who had excelled in extracurricular interests. Japan’s inimitable model of working while studying led her towards the goal after BTech.

Born a boss

Geethu completed her graduation from Barton Hill Government Engineering College. She used to do small software projects that came through friends and acquaintances and earned her a decent pocket money. But it took her some job offers after college to realise that she used to earn more than what the firms were offering. Though she missed some classes for the projects, Geethu never had to regret it. She became a star in college after developing a news app for the institute. That's how the Japan visit happened. The real recognition came when she was adjudged the best developer in an IT fest held jointly by Technopark and IT Mission.

Confusion at home

Though projects as a student were welcome at home, decisions to turn down job offers and starting a firm were not well-received. Father Sivakumar is a central government employee, and mother Suja lives in Kavadiyar. Initial objection made way to consensus soon. Geethu now employs 25 people at Pace Hitech in Kavadiyar.

Role models

She was attracted to stories about entrepreneurs – those who led their own way – from an early age. She re-read tales of how big firms like Google, Apple, and Microsoft were born. These stories made one thing clear – it's not the size of the firm but the passion with which you lead it that makes the difference.

Responsibilities of leading own company is huge. But equally big is the freedom it provides. The experience from the opportunities such big decisions create is thrilling. Unlike a salary, income from entrepreneurship may vary – sometime more, sometimes less than expected. But it's part of the bargain. Dedication to your cause, no matter what, takes you a long way.

Future plan

The company currently has clients from within India and five other countries. The immediate plan is to establish offices in 10 nations.