A Passion for Makeup and Personal Growth
Sachin Thorat, a talented makeup artist from Pune, has forged a remarkable path in the makeup industry. A proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community, his journey showcases the transformative power of passion and community support, especially from organizations like CYDA. Initially pursuing a B.A. in Marathi at Ferguson College, Pune, Sachin’s true calling was makeup artistry. He trained at the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) in 2004, equipping himself with the skills needed to excel in the industry.
Openly gay since 2003, Sachin found acceptance and support from his family, which allowed him to pursue his passion without the societal pressures that many face. Reflecting on his journey, Sachin emphasizes how the positive environment he received at home helped him grow personally and professionally. “I’ve been lucky to have a family that supported me, even when society wasn’t always kind. Their belief in me made all the difference,” he says.
Challenges in the Early Career
Sachin’s career path was not without its challenges. After initially working for an NGO supporting the LGBTQIA+ community, he was forced to redirect his focus when the NGO ceased operations in 2013 due to financial issues. With a desire to pursue his passion for makeup, Sachin entered entrepreneurship, facing challenges typical for many in the industry. He encountered unreliable business partners and the financial instability that often accompanies new businesses. These early struggles, though difficult, taught him valuable lessons.
The Turning Point
In 2022, Sachin’s life took a decisive turn when he was introduced to CYDA by his friend, Sagar Lodhi. CYDA’s comprehensive business training program provided Sachin with essential skills, including micro-planning, financial management, and effective business promotion. Armed with these skills, Sachin was able to streamline his operations and plan strategically for his business growth.
“The business training I received from CYDA gave me the tools I lacked before,” Sachin reflects. “It was not just about makeup anymore; it was about running a sustainable business. The confidence I gained from CYDA’s training has been invaluable.”
In addition to training, CYDA’s financial grant of Rs.10,000/- enabled Sachin to purchase essential makeup supplies, helping him develop hid business. He began offering bridal makeup, corporate events and photo shoots, steadily growing his business. Before CYDA, managing finances was a constant struggle for Sachin. Saving money and planning for future growth seemed nearly impossible. However, with CYDA’s training in financial management, he was able to allocate resources wisely and secure his financial future.
Sachin acknowledges that before CYDA’s intervention, saving money was a challenge. However, the organization’s emphasis on financial management transformed his approach, allowing him to allocate resources wisely and secure his financial future. He credits CYDA for fostering a supportive environment that has been instrumental in his entrepreneurial journey.
(This article is contributed by Kalyani Mudaliar, Documentation Officer at CYDA)
