How Creativity Shaped My Shift from Public Speaking to Eco-Friendly Innovation

Where It All Began

Hi, I am Ramya Haridas. My life’s journey began on stage, as an introductory speaker for the very first time. I still remember the nerves, the excitement, and the disbelief when I received such warm and encouraging feedback from the audience. That single experience became the spark that ignited my passion for communication and creativity.

What started as one speech soon turned into a lifelong connection with the stage. For nearly 15 years, I dedicated myself to public speaking, organising meetings, and managing creative events in JCI (Junior Chamber International). Those years shaped me immensely, teaching me leadership, collaboration, and the art of inspiring others. Being part of a vibrant community that believed in growth and service was one of the most rewarding chapters of my life.

A Creative Shift , The Artist Within

As the years went by, I found another calling — the world of crafts and handmade creations. For the past 15 years, I have been deeply involved in craft workshops and painting, exploring new mediums and sharing my love for creativity with others. What began as a hobby gradually grew into a fulfilling pursuit.

Alongside my art, I also began creating handmade jewellery, fulfilling countless customer orders with passion and attention to detail. Each piece I made carried a story, a touch of individuality, and the satisfaction of creating something with my own hands. This period helped me realise that creativity wasn’t just a part of me — it was my identity.

Sharing Knowledge and Culture

Education has always been close to my heart. For five years, I had the privilege of tutoring Hindi and Tamil to students in Singapore through Skype. Connecting with learners across borders and helping them stay rooted in their language and culture brought me immense joy.

Beyond my work, I’ve always cherished simple joys, classical dance and early morning treks. Both keep me grounded, connected to rhythm, nature, and myself.

A Pandemic That Sparked New Beginnings

When COVID-19 changed the world, it also changed me. During that period, I found a new medium for expression, podcasting. That’s how “Tamil Osai” was born. Over the past five years, I’ve recorded and launched around 100 episodes, covering themes like Shrimath Bhagavatham, Tenali Rama, Birbal stories, and everyday life lessons. The joy of connecting with listeners and sharing timeless stories became a beautiful part of my creative journey.

How Balaji Traders Transformed Passion into Eco-Friendly Innovation

Interestingly, COVID gave me a second gift, the courage to start my own business. That’s how Balaji Traders came into being, a brand dedicated to eco-friendly products that promote sustainability and creativity.

We began by listening to our customers and creating meaningful, usable products such as newspaper pencils, seed pencils, colour and black pencils, plantable cards (thank-you, invitation, visiting cards, national flags, and calendars). Our speciality lies in customisation for brands, turning eco-friendly Innovation ideas into personalised, memorable products.

We also offer coir pots in three sizes, jute files, and diaries as part of our growing collection. Every product we make carries a message that sustainability can be simple, beautiful, and personal.

Gratitude and Growth

As I look back, I feel immense gratitude for every phase of this journey — from public speaking to handmade art, from teaching languages to podcasting, and from creativity to entrepreneurship.

I’m truly happy to be a part of the best womens community in Bangalore. My heartfelt thanks to Mamta for introducing me here. I believe every woman’s journey is unique — and this is mine, woven with courage, curiosity, and creativity.