In this episode of Humble Beginnings, we speak with Highlight CEO Aarish Gokaldas about his family history and upbringing in South Africa during apartheid. We hear how his family immigrated to North Africa from India and eventually made its way south, what it was like growing up in a racially segregated country and how these experiences impacted Gokaldas’ perspective. Eventually, Gokaldas and his family would move to the States, starting a new life in a new country ⏤ but not without its minor setbacks, restarts and transformations. Together, we discuss the resiliency and adaptability of immigrant families.
Gokaldas would also grow to love international affairs, have impactful work experiences during college and get offered his dream job with the Defense Intelligence Agency before graduation ⏤ only for it to be put on hold right before it started. This doesn’t crush his spirits, but rather, offers Gokaldas the opportunity to make even more unique, influential experiences.
Tune in to hear how Gokaldas’ career unfolds, how serendipitous moments led him to become a CEO and how his values overlap with the values and mission of Highlight.