Question: Mr. Pema Tshering, your journey from starting a small art gallery to building a diverse business empire is truly inspiring. Can you take us back to the beginning? What motivated you to venture into entrepreneurship, especially with limited resources and education?

Answer: Thank you for having me. Well, my journey into entrepreneurship began with a simple yet profound desire to create something of my own. Despite completing only the eighth grade, I harbored a burning ambition to start a business. In 2008, at the age of 24, I leaped and opened my first venture, a small art gallery known as ‘High-Quality Group’ in Thimphu. I started with just ngultrum twenty thousand, borrowed from a friend. The motivation behind this decision stemmed from a combination of passion for art and a determination to carve out my own path in the world of business.

Question: Your ability to expand and diversify your business interests is impressive. Could you share some of the key challenges you faced along the way, and how you overcame them?

Answer: Certainly. Like any entrepreneur, I encountered numerous challenges on my journey. From financial constraints to fierce competition, each obstacle presented an opportunity for learning and growth. However, through dedication and hard work, I persisted. One of the biggest challenges was meeting the increasing demand for Thangka paintings in my art gallery. To address this, I not only expanded my product range but also forged partnerships with other artists to ensure a steady supply.
Additionally, venturing into new industries such as tourism and car rental posed its own set of challenges, but with resilience and adaptability, I was able to navigate through them.

Question: Your commitment to giving back to the community, especially by providing employment opportunities to youth, is commendable. How do you view the role of entrepreneurship in addressing socio-economic challenges such as youth unemployment?

Answer: I strongly believe that entrepreneurship plays a pivotal role in addressing socio-economic challenges, particularly youth unemployment. By creating opportunities for employment and empowerment, entrepreneurs not only contribute to economic growth but also foster innovation and
resilience within communities. Through my businesses, I have been able to provide meaningful employment to many youths, thereby contributing to the development of our society. It’s not just about profit; it’s about making a positive impact and building a brighter future for the next generation.

Question: Looking ahead, what are your future plans and aspirations for your business empire?

Answer: I am constantly exploring new avenues for growth and expansion. Currently, I am working on opening branches of my businesses in other districts such as Paro, Bumthang, Mongar, and Wangdue.
Additionally, I have several projects in the pipeline, including a juice factory in Tsirang, a picture hall at
Gongtey, Wangdue, and an institute for Zorig chusum. My goal is to continue innovating and diversifying my business portfolio while staying true to my commitment to excellence and community development.

Question: Finally, what advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs who may be facing similar challenges on their entrepreneurial journey?

Answer: My advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is simple: believe in yourself and never give up. Success in entrepreneurship requires a combination of passion, perseverance, and resilience. Embrace challenges as
opportunities for growth, and always be open to learning from your experiences. Remember, it’s not about where you start; it’s about where you’re headed and the impact you make along the way. So, dream big, work hard, and never lose sight of your goals.

By Rinzin Dema