The Entrepreneurial Mindset in Action
Tarannum Malik, an enthusiastic and positive individual, has learned valuable lessons through experiential learning in her life journey. She believes in befriending failure and sees setbacks as pitstops that fuel her for the journey ahead.
Tarannum emphasizes the importance of trusting the process and the people that come along, as they are the means to achieve her goals. Moreover, she encourages taking chances on oneself, as investing in one’s own product or service is crucial.
A visionary entrepreneur with a keen interest in and understanding of global food security challenges, Tarannum has built an impressive business portfolio. Her business idea was conceived as a result of a casual conversation with her mom during the COVID-19 pandemic. She realized that animal feed, a crucial element of food security, was often overlooked, even though most of the global population consumes meat and dairy. With the projected increase in the global population by 2050 and the climate change crisis adversely affecting the agricultural cycle, Tarannum recognized the need for an innovative solution. This led her to establish Al Aliyo Hydrofarms, pioneers of growing hydroponic fodder for livestock on an industrial scale in the UAE.
The UAE has limited arable land, which results in over 80% of agricultural produce being imported. The livestock farming industry generally lacks standardized parameters and is often considered unsustainable and polluting. Additionally, the fodder quality is often below par. Considering these challenges, Tarannum and her team aim to bridge the import gap in the UAE and reduce the carbon and water footprint in the food sector. Through hard work and dedication, she has carved a niche for herself. She expresses, “Honest work has taken us from an ‘idea’ to an ‘idea that works’.”
Tarannum’s passion is fueled by the promise of a better tomorrow. She reflects on her journey and acknowledges that her progress has been driven by her daring to dream. Tarannum embraces both her mistakes and good decisions, taking ownership of them. However, what truly brings her joy and a renewed sense of purpose is positively impacting the environment and contributing to a healthier planet. Her passion is the driving force that motivates her to keep striving for excellence every day.
Tarannum believes there is no singular path in business, and success is not always linear. She embraces a flexible approach, allowing customization and experimentation to achieve her entrepreneurial goals.
Drawing inspiration from her lineage of strong women, as well as her multicultural upbringing and top-notch education, Tarannum has developed a single-minded goal of taking Al Aliyo Hydrofarms global. She desires to positively impact and contribute to a better future by challenging norms and enjoying life’s journey with a sense of invincibility.
Tarannum was honored with the prestigious ‘International Achievers Award’ by the Indian Achievers Forum, which filled her with pride as her native country recognized her for her work. An article about Al Aliyo Hydrofarms was also published in the UAE National Paper, Khaleej Times. Furthermore, she was featured in the Gulf News special edition for the UAE National Day.
For Tarannum, leadership is about creating a healthy ecosystem where individuals can thrive and be authentic. She believes it is essential to identify people’s skills and help them reach their fullest potential for the organization’s growth. Rather than creating just followers or just leaders, she sees leadership as an enabler and a life coach, empowering individuals to excel and contribute to the overall success of the team and organization.
In conclusion, Tarannum encourages the readers to dream big, be open to change, and think outside the box. She believes one can surpass boundaries and achieve the impossible with determination and innovation.
She draws inspiration from those who have come before her and hopes to ignite entrepreneurial passion in others. With a vision of positively impacting the world, Tarannum strives to fulfill her life’s purpose through her endeavors.
