Zonu has graduated in molecular and cell biology from UC Berkeley in the US
Zonu Reddy
Her name has a lyrical tone to it. She is called Zonu Reddy. "I was named after my aunt's friend and it means beautiful in Iranian," announces the 23- year old director of Zonasha Estates and Projects and also the secretary of CREDAI, Bangalore, youth wing. “I am the first lady and the youngest to hold a position in CREDAI Bengaluru.... not just the youth wing,” she reveals.
So there is no way you can dismiss her as a pretty face with a catchy name. Zonu impresses you with her clear sighted goals. Chat with her for a few minutes and you figure out the deep passion with which she tackles her work projects. Ironically, she does not have a management background. Zonu, in fact, has graduated in molecular and cell biology from UC Berkeley in the US. “In school, I always excelled in science and was passionate about this subject. And when I got selected to attend Berkeley, it made sense to pursue this degree,” says the articulate lady whose warmth radiates though her voice.
While she was graduating in America and engaging her self in studies related to fertility and human reproduction, her real estate baron dad, Nagaraj sounded her out on joining the family business. And perhaps, being an only child, Zonu was subconsciously aware of her responsibilities as she opted to do several short term courses in business. “I managed to develop business skills as I was part of student organisations like the International Association of Business Communication and volunteered with NGos like Seva,” she reveals.
Zonu returned to Bengaluru and joined her dad’s company. But she was a very mature youngster who understood the importance of earning respect at the work place. “There are a lot of challenges as I don’t have a background in civil engineering or construction or business management. Also, I was working with people who were twice my age and skeptical about my abilities. It is natural on their part to have reservations about me. But I work hard. I have been here 10 months and have always shown a huge willingness on my part to learn the business. And when in doubt, I ask a lot of questions so now they appreciate me,” she confesses, adding that her dad has been a huge support system at work. “He guides me not by giving me options on how to handle situations,” she says.
Ask her about her role as secretary of CREDAI youth wing and she says, “Everyone has been very supportive and encouraging, and they feel like it is a step in the right direction to get more female involvement in real estate and the organisation.” Curently, work consumes most of Zonu’s life. However, she is striving to strike a balance. “I am currently reading The Pumkin Plan by Mike Michalowicz. It is a book about business strategies to grow businesses. I also enjoy travelling. I’m looking forward to visiting Italy in June,” she reveals.
( Source : dc )
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