We had the good fortune of connecting with Zeba Parkar and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Zeba, what role has risk played in your life or career?
I strongly believe in the mantra “no pains, no gains.” While making any major decision involving risk, I always ask “what is the worst thing that can happen if I don’t do this?” Invariably, the answer is always – failure. Failure doesn’t scare me, what scares me is unfulfilled potential and the fact that I will wonder in the future “what if I tried it?” Risks have shaped who I am in both my life and my career. Life is too boring if you are too comfortable with the status quo and don’t make any waves or at least some ripples.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Mochiis works closely with artisans around the world to bring unique and fun fashion shoes and accessories for women. Our goal is to keep various traditional art-forms alive while harnessing advanced technologies for efficiency and affordability. We strive to create a meaningful connection through beautiful and accessible products that showcase craft and creativity, and also to build awareness of international handicrafts. Our ultimate aim is to delight our customers and become a premiere approachable brand. We are excited about bringing some very unique products especially the hand tooled leather goods to our customers. We are still in the building phase of the business and are excited for some upcoming launches that might change our trajectory.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would take my friend to the Atlanta Botanical garden. It is an amazing retreat in the middle of the city. For eating, I will take them to Patel Plaza in Decatur (a suburb of Atlanta). Within a 2 block radius, you can find some amazing Indian food spots. Eating kabobs at Zyka, eating indian street food favorites at Chat Patti and Gokul while also doing some ethnic clothes shopping at the shops at the plaza. I will also make a weekend trip to the Smoky Mountains National Park. We will get in some hiking and quiet time in the park looking over breathtaking valleys and lots of wildlife.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I am very thankful for my family’s support especially my husband and my parents. I decided to make a leap out of a very successful corporate career into unknown territory of entrepreneurship. As you can imagine, the transition was hard and I could not have done it without the unwavering support of my husband who has taught me to see the positive side of things and my parents who have indulged in my dreams and have given me concrete advise when I felt stuck. I am also very thankful to Atlanta Technology Development Center (atdc.org) who are an amazing resource for entrepreneurs in the Atlanta area. As a member, I have been able to take a number of educational classes, meet other entrepreneurs and also get advice and mentoring from experts.

Website: www.mochiis.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mochiisfootwear/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mochiisfootwear/