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Biji Tharakan Thomas
Future Shaper, Technology Evangelist, Early-Stage Investor, Board Member, ESG Enthusiast, Ex-GE, Startup Whisperer, Avid Learner, Re-inventor & Developer of Ethical Wisdom.
Biji Tharakan Thomas is a seasoned professional with a wealth of experience garnered from small and large companies. His career is dedicated to enhancing businesses through the strategic utilization of digital technologies to optimize assets, processes, and human performance. With expertise in early business engineering, GTM strategies, customer experience, and technology enablement, Biji's strengths lie in strategic project development, account-based interventions, and business innovation, particularly in the Energy and Healthcare sectors and related startups. His professional ethos emphasizes business orchestration for amplified returns, along with a commitment to sustainable and ethical business practices as showcased through his participation in advisory councils.
Highlights
How to talk to a country? Have you ever tried?
I recently had the incredible opportunity to visit Bhutan, a trip that transcended typical business visits and became a journey of cultural and professional enlightenment.
I was invited by Praveen Bangera, founder of Xverse Digital, for the trip and he said no questions would be answered, till we reached. After landing he introduced me to Kinley Rabgyel, founder of GoXimbo (a company focused on creating exceptional experiences) and everything changed thereafter.
The journey began with an unexpected invitation to speak at a workshop for Bhutan’s leading entrepreneurs. Their drive and vision were contagious, and listening to their life stories painted a vivid picture of a community that is as ambitious as it is grounded in its cultural ethos. We could feel the passion for progress among the Bhutanese people.
Our interactions weren’t confined to entrepreneurs. We met with various officials, including the Director General of Employment & Entrepreneurship, the Chief of the RMA, Banks, Telecoms, etc., and the conversations were eye-opening. They shared insights into their challenges and priorities, from KPIs to stimulus budgets, which provided a deeper understanding of the country’s economic and developmental framework.
But what struck me most was the gentle manner in which every Bhutanese individual communicates. Whether it was a janitor or a high-ranking official, each conversation was marked by a soft, respectful delivery of ideas and experiences, allowing us to genuinely connect and understand their perspectives.
Our travels across the country also highlighted the potential challenges and opportunities. We noted issues with local and cross-border payment systems, which could be key areas for improvement.
And the people! Mingling with locals in cafes, exploring local markets, and visiting monasteries allowed us to experience the Bhutanese way of life firsthand. Their belief in giving before taking, and the strong influence of Karma in their daily lives were lessons for us.
To anyone thinking of visiting or doing business in Bhutan, go with an open heart and a listening ear. Embrace their respectful ways of communication, align with their community-focused values, and contribute positively to their growth.
Bhutan is a place to grow as a human. We met with young as well as retired people including those who worked and are working in government, foundations, technology, banking, telecom, media, airlines as well as the judiciary. They all had a sense of contentment yet a forward-looking attitude and great respect for ‘His Majesty’s vision’ even after the country had moved into democracy.
As we look to build bridges in our professional and personal lives, let’s take a leaf out of Bhutan’s book—fostering connections that are based on mutual respect, understanding, and shared goals.
#BusinessTravel #CulturalExchange #Entrepreneurship #Leadership #BhutanAwaits
I had the incredible opportunity to experience the heart and soul of Bhutan. With an open mind and genuine curiosity, I explored the country, met with amazing individuals, and immersed myself in the local culture. If you are interested in discovering the opportunities or exploring this beautiful country, feel free to get in touch.
Thanks, Praveen Bangera for the invitation to join in this adventure, and thanks Kinley Rabgyel for letting us gently touch the country and arranging many amazing introductions. We will surely do the #kidsexchange program.
#BhutanAwaits
