Nw Desk The serial entrepreneur, angel investor and founder of Instoried channelled stress-induced cardiac arrest into a new mental health initiative for entrepreneurs in the form of SAFE.
(Delhi, India) – A prominent figure in the world of entrepreneurship and the acclaimed founder of Instoried, Sharmin Ali, unveiled the Sharmin Ali Foundation for Entrepreneurs (SAFE). This revolutionary initiative is aimed at providing critical mental health support to entrepreneurs grappling with the intense pressures of the startup world. The mission of the foundation is a deeply personal one for Ali, who recently survived a near-fatal cardiac arrest induced by chronic stress.
Her entrepreneurial journey is marked by outstanding achievements, from raising millions of dollars to founding multiple innovative ventures and creating more than 10,000 jobs. However, the road to success thus far had her go through several challenges, including stress that culminated in severe health repercussions. Speaking on the same, Ali reflects, “Surviving a heart attack was a wake-up call. It forced me to confront the harsh realities of entrepreneurship. I was so scared. I thought I was going to die. When I woke up, I realised that if I could experience this despite my success, countless others must be silently struggling too.”
This life-altering experience inspired the establishment of SAFE, an organisation dedicated to offering comprehensive mental health resources tailored specifically to the unique challenges faced by entrepreneurs. Ali envisions SAFE as a catalyst for cultural change within the entrepreneurial ecosystem. SAFE aims to destigmatise mental health discussions in the business realm through strategic partnerships with industry leaders, organisations, and policymakers. It advocates for systemic changes that prioritise entrepreneurs’ well-being.
Ali highlights that founders are expected to be invincible and to push through every challenge without acknowledging the emotional and psychological strain that comes with it. Hence, she emphasises that “SAFE is here to change the narrative.” Her commitment to mental health has not gone unnoticed. Recently, her efforts were spotlighted with a glowing billboard on the NASDAQ building in Times Square, New York.
SAFE’s impact will extend beyond direct services. The foundation plans to host annual conferences, publish research on entrepreneurial mental health, and develop educational programs to equip founders with tools to manage stress and build resilience. By fostering a supportive community and encouraging open dialogue, SAFE aims to ensure that entrepreneurs no longer need to navigate these challenges in isolation.
Sharmin Ali’s journey and story poignantly reminds of the human side of entrepreneurship, comprised of the unseen battles and personal sacrifices that often accompany professional success. In a parting shot, Ali says, “We need to normalise conversations about mental health in the entrepreneurial world. By sharing our stories and supporting each other, we can build a healthier, more sustainable future for all entrepreneurs.”
