Break the Box: Turning Setbacks into Creative Success | Shivathmaj Shenoy | TEDxKIS Pune Youth
In this candid and motivating TEDx talk, Shivathmaj Shenoy—video editor, digital marketer, and CEO of Scale Socials—shares how a failed NEET exam led him on a completely unexpected yet fulfilling journey of creative entrepreneurship. Raised in a world where becoming a doctor or engineer was seen as the only "valid" dream, Shivathmaj dared to follow his curiosity instead of conforming.
Through freelancing during the pandemic, discovering a knack for teaching via YouTube, and eventually building a thriving content agency, Shivathmaj illustrates the power of experimentation, self-learning, and believing in your own potential—especially when society doesn’t. He takes us through the emotional highs and lows of working dead-end jobs, quitting them to rediscover passion, and taking the leap into business with nothing but encouragement from friends and an unwavering drive to grow.
This is not a story of overnight success, but of building your life “frame by frame”—one video, one lesson, one risk at a time. Shivathmaj’s story is a call to action for anyone who's ever been boxed in by expectations: forget the perfect resume. Chase the work that sets your soul on fire. Shivathmaj Shenoy is a video editor, marketer, and CEO of Scale Socials, with over a decade of experience and 860+ projects delivered. He specializes in creating high-converting content for brands and creators — from YouTube funnels and SaaS promos to true crime edits and motion graphics. With advanced skills in color grading, sound design, storyboarding, and AI-powered visuals, Shivathmaj crafts videos that don’t just tell stories — they drive results. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
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