2024 Ausmumpreneur Awards Winner – Ash Sundaram

My name is Ash, and I’m the founder of Krivi Creations, a handmade Mandala art business born out of a personal journey of healing. What began as a therapeutic hobby during a time of physical and emotional challenge has blossomed into a successful small business. Krivi Creations is all about creating meaningful, handcrafted Mandala designs that inspire mindfulness, creativity, and connection. As a certified Soul Purpose Coach, I also integrate wellness coaching into my offerings, empowering individuals to grow through art and mindfulness.

When did you start your business?

I started Krivi Creations in July 2020 during a personal journey of healing and self-discovery.

What was the inspiration behind starting this business?

The inspiration behind Krivi Creations stemmed from my personal experience with the healing power of Mandala art. Coping with plantar fasciitis, I found solace and mindfulness through creating Mandalas. This therapeutic practice ignited a passion within me to share the transformative benefits of Mandala art with others, leading me to establish Krivi Creations as a platform for empowerment and creative expression.

What are you most excited about in your business?

I’m most excited about the impact Krivi Creations has on people’s lives. Whether it’s through our handcrafted Mandala art pieces that bring beauty and tranquility to their spaces or our empowerment workshops that foster personal growth and mindfulness, knowing that my work helps others find joy and healing is incredibly fulfilling.

What has been the most challenging thing about starting your business?

One of the most challenging aspects was building a brand identity from scratch and establishing an online presence. Learning the intricacies of social media platforms like Instagram to reach a global audience while balancing the roles of artist, business owner, and marketer was a significant challenge. Additionally, managing financial stability while dedicating the necessary time and energy to create intricate Mandala pieces was a constant balancing act.

What advice would you give to other women thinking about starting a business?

Start where you are, with what you have. The perfect moment doesn’t exist. If you’re passionate about something, take the leap and learn along the way. Surround yourself with a community of like-minded women who can offer support and encouragement.

Why did you enter the AusMumpreneur Awards?

I entered the AusMumpreneur Awards to connect with other inspiring women in business and to celebrate how far I’ve come on this journey. It’s a wonderful platform to share my story, gain visibility, and learn from other successful mums in business.

What did you enjoy the most about being part of the awards?

I thoroughly enjoyed connecting with other inspiring women entrepreneurs and hearing their stories. The sense of community and support was uplifting. Participating in the awards also gave me a platform to reflect on my journey, celebrate milestones, and gain valuable exposure for Krivi Creations.

What surprised you most about the awards?

I was pleasantly surprised by the immense support and encouragement from the AusMumpreneur community. The collaborative spirit and willingness to share knowledge among participants exceeded my expectations, making the experience truly enriching.

How did the awards help you in your business?

Ausmumpreneur awards have provided validation for the work I do. The recognition has motivated me to push forward with confidence and also allowed me to connect with a network of inspiring women, which has been invaluable for personal growth and business development.

What advice would you give to other mums thinking about entering the awards?

Don’t hesitate to enter! It’s a great way to reflect on your journey, celebrate your achievements, and connect with a supportive network of women. You’ll gain invaluable exposure and a sense of accomplishment that propels you forward. Don’t underestimate the value of your journey and the impact you can make.

What has been the best thing about starting your own business?

The best thing has been the ability to turn my passion into a platform that positively impacts others. It’s incredibly rewarding to see how my art and workshops help people find mindfulness, joy, and personal growth. Additionally, being my own boss allows me to balance my professional and personal life in a way that aligns with my values.

What’s happening next in your business?

What are your big plans for the future?

My big plans include expanding Krivi Creations’ digital product offerings, making Mandala art more accessible to people globally. I aim to grow my mindfulness and Mandala workshops, offering both online and in-person sessions to help people experience the therapeutic benefits of art. I’m also planning to collaborate with wellness forums to integrate Mandala art into mindfulness practices, creating a space where creativity and healing intersect. Through these initiatives, I hope to inspire and empower others while growing my community.