From Bank to Startup: Reham Fagiri's Journey

This interview delves into the inspiring story of Reham Fagiri, the CEO and co-founder of AptDeco, a company that simplifies the process of buying and selling furniture. Reham's career path took an intriguing turn, leading her from the traditional world of banking to the exciting realm of entrepreneurship.

Reham's Time at the Bank and the MBA Experience

Before launching AptDeco, Reham worked in the banking industry. This experience provided her with valuable skills and insights that would later prove crucial in her entrepreneurial journey. Her MBA journey was instrumental in equipping her with the necessary knowledge and tools to navigate the complexities of the business world.

• Reham gained valuable skills in finance, strategy, and leadership during her time at the bank.
• The MBA program provided her with a deeper understanding of business principles and honed her analytical abilities.

Transitioning from Bank to Startup

Leaving a comfortable career in banking to venture into the unpredictable world of startups required courage and a strong belief in her vision. Reham's decision to embrace the challenges of entrepreneurship was driven by her passion for solving a real-world problem, in this case, the cumbersome nature of furniture buying and selling.

The Birth of AptDeco: A Solution to Furniture Hassles

AptDeco was born out of Reham's personal experience with the difficulties of furniture transactions. She recognized a gap in the market and saw an opportunity to create a platform that simplifies the entire process. The company's innovative approach to furniture buying and selling quickly gained traction, attracting investors and customers alike.

• AptDeco streamlines the process of buying and selling furniture by providing a convenient online platform.
• The platform offers a wide selection of furniture, making it easy for customers to find what they need.
• AptDeco provides a seamless and hassle-free experience for both buyers and sellers.

AptDeco's Growth and Reham's Role as CEO

As CEO of AptDeco, Reham plays a pivotal role in shaping the company's direction and driving its growth. Her leadership skills, honed through both her banking experience and MBA, have been instrumental in navigating the complexities of running a startup. Reham's passion for AptDeco's mission, combined with her business acumen, has helped the company achieve remarkable success.

• Reham leads AptDeco with a clear vision and a focus on innovation.
• Her strong leadership has been crucial in attracting investors and fostering a positive company culture.
• AptDeco has expanded its operations and achieved significant milestones under Reham's guidance.

Reham's Insights on Entrepreneurship

Reham's journey provides invaluable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs. She emphasizes the importance of embracing challenges, adapting to change, and leveraging your skills and experiences to build something meaningful. Her story serves as an inspiration to those who dare to dream big and pursue their entrepreneurial ambitions.

YC Experience and the Importance of Networking

AptDeco went through Y Combinator (YC), a renowned accelerator program that provides mentorship, funding, and networking opportunities to promising startups. This experience was instrumental in shaping AptDeco's trajectory and providing Reham with invaluable insights from experienced entrepreneurs.

• YC provided AptDeco with access to resources, mentorship, and funding.
• Reham's participation in YC broadened her network and exposed her to industry leaders.
• The YC experience helped AptDeco refine its business model and scale its operations.

Reham's Favorite Podcasts for Entrepreneurs

Reham's passion for learning and personal growth is evident in her love for podcasts. She recommends several podcasts that she finds insightful for entrepreneurs, covering topics such as business strategy, leadership, and personal development.

Key Takeaways from Reham's Story

• A background in banking can provide valuable skills for entrepreneurship.
• An MBA can enhance business acumen and prepare you for the challenges of leading a startup.
• Passion and a strong vision are essential for success in the startup world.
• Networking plays a critical role in building a successful business.
• Continuous learning and personal development are crucial for entrepreneurs.