AARTI GILL has carved a unique niche in the wellness industry with her venture, OZiva, which stands as a testament to innovation and perseverance. Her journey is not just about building a brand but creating a movement toward healthier living. With OZiva, AARTI GILL has redefined how we perceive plant-based wellness and nutrition, and her leadership inspires budding entrepreneurs worldwide.
The Beginning of an Entrepreneurial Journey
AARTI GILL’s entrepreneurial spirit was evident from the start. She identified a gap in the market for clean, plant-based nutritional products in a world inundated with synthetic options. Co-founding OZiva, she set out to bridge this gap with a vision rooted in sustainability, health, and innovation. Her mission was clear: to make wellness accessible to everyone and create products that resonate with people’s evolving health needs.
The Story Behind Institutional Funding
AARTI GILL recalls a pivotal moment in OZiva’s journey: securing their first institutional funding. On January 31, 2020, she was introduced to the Matrix Partners team through Bipin from Titan. Within days, she met Sanjot from Matrix, who immediately recognized the potential of OZiva’s business model. AARTI GILL shared data and ideas, and soon a meeting was set up with Avnish from Matrix Partners.
At the time, OZiva was generating revenue of around ₹25 crore and was already profitable. In her meeting with Avnish, AARTI GILL was asked how she envisioned scaling the company to ₹100 crore. Her candid response, “100 pata hai… 500 abhi figure out nahi kiya hai,” reflected her clarity about immediate goals and honesty about long-term planning. This moment became a turning point, showcasing her pragmatic approach and passion for scaling the brand.
Why Matrix Partners?
Choosing Matrix Partners as a funding partner was a decision rooted in alignment of values. AARTI GILL appreciated the entrepreneurial experience Avnish brought to the table. Like Kunal and Rohit from Titan Capital, Avnish had built a company from scratch, experiencing the highs and lows of the entrepreneurial grind. This shared understanding of the challenges of building a business resonated deeply with AARTI GILL.
She also valued Avnish’s ability to create value. In her own words, “Someone once told me there are three types of VCs: value creators, no-value-adds, and value destroyers.” Under Avnish’s leadership, Matrix Partners exemplified the first category. This partnership was instrumental in OZiva’s growth and success.
The Exit and Lifelong Relationships
In 2022, OZiva provided an exit to Matrix, marking the end of a formal financial partnership but the beginning of a lasting relationship. AARTI GILL’s gratitude toward mentors like Avnish reflects her belief in collaborative growth. The support and guidance she received were pivotal during the highs and lows of OZiva’s journey, strengthening her resolve to build a resilient brand.
OZiva: A Brand That Speaks of Purpose
Under AARTI GILL’s leadership, OZiva has become synonymous with clean, plant-based nutrition. The brand’s offerings cater to diverse needs, from fitness enthusiasts to individuals seeking holistic wellness. AARTI GILL’s commitment to quality and innovation is evident in OZiva’s extensive product line, which combines the best of nature and science.
A key aspect of OZiva’s success is its community-centric approach. AARTI GILL’s vision extends beyond selling products; she aims to educate and empower people to lead healthier lives. This purpose-driven philosophy has earned OZiva a loyal customer base and industry recognition.
Lessons in Leadership
AARTI GILL’s journey offers valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs. Her ability to adapt, her honesty about challenges, and her focus on long-term goals set her apart as a leader. She believes in the power of mentorship, collaboration, and staying true to one’s vision—principles that have guided her through the complexities of building a business.
Gratitude and Reflection
Looking back, AARTI GILL attributes OZiva’s growth to the support of mentors, investors, and her co-founder Mihir Gadani. She acknowledges the importance of believing in one’s vision and the relentless hustle required to turn dreams into reality. Her gratitude extends to those who believed in OZiva’s potential, helping it flourish in a competitive market.
A Legacy in Wellness
AARTI GILL’s impact goes beyond building a successful brand. She has pioneered a movement that champions plant-based living and sustainable wellness. Her efforts have inspired a shift in consumer preferences, making OZiva a trailblazer in the wellness industry.
The Road Ahead
For AARTI GILL, the journey is far from over. With OZiva continuing to innovate and expand, she remains committed to her vision of transforming lives through holistic wellness. Her story is a powerful reminder that with passion, perseverance, and purpose, anything is achievable.
In celebrating AARTI GILL’s achievements, we are reminded of the transformative power of visionary leadership. Her journey with OZiva is a beacon of inspiration, showcasing how determination and a clear sense of purpose can drive remarkable success
