Today we’d like to introduce you to Pooja Hathiramani.

Hi Pooja, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
The mission and purpose behind my brand all stems from determination. For many years, I was determined to learn how to crochet. Once covid hit in March of 2020, I had the time to actually sit down and learn. I self taught myself how to crochet through youtube videos and online tutorials. In just a matter of 2 years I was recognized by Newsday, for not only my self taught crochet talent but for something that connected so deep within my culture. I had created a crochet Ganesh as a keepsake and good luck item which was featured on the FRONT PAGE of the ExploreLl section of the Newsday newspaper! This was not only exciting for me and my small growing business, but it was an eye opener as well! I was astonished to see how many people, even those who were not South Asian start requesting and putting in orders for my Ganesh.

Since then, I have been working hard on various different requests from clients from all over the US! I have slowly, but surely, built up a strong clientele. At the moment, I have also created an adorable baby Krishna, and Laxmi to add to my, “Hindu Deities” line of products. Very soon, I plan to add more deities in the future. For now, each of my dolls come in two different versions, 1 with sound and 1 without. Upon request, I can customize accordingly!

This past year has been very exciting, busy and also hectic at times to try to keep up with the workload! Although it has been hectic, I LOVE EVERY MOMENT OF IT! My mission for my small company is to spread my love for crocheting and my love for my culture to as many people as I can!

With high hopes, I do hope you share, and spread the word!

In the meantime, I thank you for allowing me to share my story with you!

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has been tough managing this particular job on the side. My real profession is teaching! I currently work at a school in East Meadow, New York.

Work, plus this side job, and daily life responsibilities can get very hard to manage at times but I try my best to make it all work!

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I have my Master’s in Childhood Education to teach grades 1-6. I have been working and substituting in schools all over the 5 boroughs of New York for the past 15 years. I love working with kids and shaping young minds. Teaching is what I do best! That is why I decided to combine both my expertises and offer crochet classes to those who are interested in learning. I host these classes at the local libraries in Long Island and they have been a great success. Many times maxing out capacity!

So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
To show your support, you can follow me on Instagram or Facebook.

If you send me a message via these social media platforms, I will be more than happy to help you with your needs.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/geniecraftsandcrochet?igsh=MWlyaWN1OWY3azhudA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/tvW53f5NpEejVhT1/?mibextid=LQQJ4d