Manish Chandra, the Indian American CEO of the social commerce marketplace Poshmark, underscored the significant contributions of the Indian diaspora, with 72 out of 648 US unicorns being founded by individuals of Indian origin. During an Indiaspora panel discussion on July 2, as part of the CNBC-TV18 Young Turks Voices from the Valley series, Chandra highlighted the innovative perspectives and integration of second-generation Indian Americans into American society.
Chandra pointed out that many of the current generation are first-generation immigrants, while their children, who are growing up in the US, are much more integrated into society. These second-generation individuals are approaching problems in unique and innovative ways, addressing issues that even their parents might not be aware of. “Many of us are first-generation immigrants. Our kids are growing up. They are at a very different level of operating,” Chandra said, according to CNBC-TV18.
He emphasized the need to stay attuned to these generational changes. “It is really tuning your energy into what’s happening,” he stated, recognizing the impact of these shifts on entrepreneurial opportunities. Reflecting on the essence of human experience, Chandra noted that while technology advances, the core aspects of life remain unchanged. “The human nature doesn’t change, it doesn’t matter whether we are in the mobile era or chariot era or tree era,” he remarked.
Chandra noted that fundamental human experiences provide rich opportunities for innovation. He remarked, “Birth, love, heartbreak, parenthood, life choices, fashion changes, and dining—all these enduring aspects of life offer immense potential for exploration and advancement.”
Chandra provided an illustration of future technological possibility: “Imagine a scenario where, 50 years from now, you’re preparing a meal and your grandmother, who passed away 30 years ago, is there teaching you how to cook. Such a situation could evoke feelings of nostalgia and warmth, showcasing the potential of advanced technology.”
Chandra concluded by emphasizing the importance of leveraging the unique strengths and innovative thinking of the Indian diaspora to achieve greater success for Indian American founders in the US. “It is really tuning your energy into what’s happening,” he reiterated.
