Zajjad Zaheer's journey from a small Indian village without electricity to becoming a successful global textile entrepreneur captivates from the first moment. Born to a lower-middle-class family in Kerala where his father studied under kerosene lamps, Zajjad's path was shaped by determination and an unwavering commitment to relationships over immediate profit.
What sets Zajjad's story apart is his linguistic journey. Speaking six languages fluently, he didn't learn English until age 21, yet this didn't prevent him from ascending to leadership. After taking a three-day train to Mumbai for his first job paying merely $35 monthly, Zajjad chose stability and culture over a competitor's offer of double the salary. This decision proved transformative as he rose to become the second-highest paid employee within six years through his philosophy of making himself "indispensable" to the organization.
The founding of Scottic Designs in 2002 marked Zajjad's entrepreneurial leap, beginning with a $200,000 order for TJ Maxx through his former employer's connections. But success wasn't linear – after expanding to 200 employees, the business nearly collapsed in 2007. In a moment of profound risk, Zajjad sold his wife's car, left his pregnant wife with just $1,200 for emergencies, and flew to America seeking new opportunities. Through persistence and relationship leverage, he revitalized his business and eventually fulfilled his dream of opening a New York office in 2023.
Behind Zajjad's business acumen lies a commitment to philanthropy through the Muslim practice of zakat, giving 2.5% of profits to those less fortunate. His enduring friendship with his Jewish business partner Eric demonstrates how shared values can transcend cultural differences. Ready to transform your approach to business relationships? Follow Zajjad's example of persistence, integrity, and putting people before profits.
