Not many people can be aptly described as a “serial entrepreneur”—but Rani Dabrai is one of them!
With five successful companies already under her belt, she has also served a wide variety of positions such as an advisory council member to UNICEF and Senior Advisor to the Monaco Foundry. She’s a business professional, a philanthropist, a coach, a parent, and an award-winning leader, just to list a few of her many titles and talents.
Rani carved out some time to reflect on what Forum has meant for her personal and professional lives.
ForumSherpa: What led you to join Forum, and what has led you to stay in Forum?
Rani Dabrai: The opportunity for peer-to-peer learning and meeting like-minded entrepreneurs really drew me to join Forum. Once I had joined, I quickly realized it offered a multitude of benefits.
First off, it provides a platform for networking with individuals who understand both challenges and triumphs in business. You get to share experiences, gain insights, and maybe even pick up some handy tips and tricks.
Plus, the support and camaraderie can be priceless when you’re navigating the unpredictable waters of running a business. It’s like having your own personal board of advisors. It has become such a powerful learning tool for me both personally and professionally that I will stay in Forum for a very long time.
FS: How do you feel that Forum has helped you evolve, both as a businessperson and as an individual?
RD: Forum has helped me evolve on both professional and personal fronts.
On the business side, I’ve been exposed to diverse perspectives and strategies that have inspired innovative thinking and problem solving. The collective wisdom of our small Forum group can be a goldmine of knowledge.
The most surprising thing I have found is how these Forums often delve into personal development too. The shared experiences, challenges, and successes have contributed hugely to my confidence and growth as an individual. It’s like having my own personal support system that understands the unique pressures of being an entrepreneur. Forum has become my safe space and second family.
FS: What are some of the most important and valuable lessons you’ve learned thanks to your Forum experience, both as a member and as a facilitator?
RD: As a member, I have seen firsthand the power of collaboration and diverse perspectives, and how sharing from a place of experience is the best possible way to share and learn. Forum has provided me with a space where ideas are freely exchanged, and I can gain valuable insights from others who’ve faced similar challenges in the past.
As a facilitator, it has been an opportunity for me to hone my leadership and mentoring skills. I am responsible for guiding discussions, fostering a positive and constructive atmosphere, and ensuring everyone gets a chance to contribute, which has been an important lesson.
FS: What do you love most about being a facilitator?
RD: One of my favourite parts of being a facilitator is witnessing the growth and transformation of our Forum members. It’s like being a guide on their journey, seeing them overcome challenges, celebrate victories, and evolve both personally and professionally.
The sense of community and the relationships I have built as a facilitator are also priceless. You become a central figure in a network of like-minded individuals, fostering connections that go beyond business. There is huge satisfaction in knowing I am contributing to the success and well-being of others.
FS: What is your favorite Forum exercise or tool? Why is this your favorites?
RD: I have especially loved Cloaking. I used it immediately in my own Forum when I came back as a fully qualified Sherpa, and we got amazing results.
I also got great value myself from Brainstorming, finding it tremendously helpful to me personally and professionally.
FS: Why should Forums hire a facilitator for their retreat?
RD: First and foremost, a skilled facilitator can create a structured and engaging environment for discussions and activities. This ensures that the retreat achieves its objectives and that every member has a chance to contribute.
A facilitator also brings an outsider’s perspective, which can be refreshing and provide new insights. They can navigate through potential conflicts, keeping discussions productive and positive. Plus, it allows the members to fully participate without the burden of managing the logistics.
FS: What would you say to a Forum considering hiring a facilitator for an upcoming retreat? How do they choose the best facilitator for their retreat?
RD: When considering hiring a facilitator for a Forum retreat, think about your goals for the retreat and what kind of expertise you need. Look for a facilitator who understands the unique challenges of running a business and can tailor the experience to meet the needs of your Forum. Ask for recommendations or look for facilitators with a track record of success in similar settings. Reviews and testimonials can speak volumes about a facilitator’s effectiveness.
Also, communication is key. Make sure the facilitator understands the dynamics of your Forum, its members, and your desired outcomes for the retreat. A good facilitator should be adaptable, skilled in group dynamics, and able to create a comfortable and inclusive atmosphere.
Lastly, trust your instincts. If you feel a connection and a sense of confidence in the facilitator’s abilities, it’s likely a good fit.
FS: Are there any funny or interesting stories you’d like to share about a retreat, or a particularly favorite destination?
RD: My own Forum retreats are just wonderful—it’s so hard to pick a single example!
I will say though, that being the only female Forum member means that my annual retreat explanation never fails to make me chuckle. When I tell people I’m about to go away for a week with six men for a life changing experience, it certainly raises eyebrows!
Rani can help your Forum make the most of their next retreat. Contact us today to find out Rani’s availability!
Written by Britt Spread