Page 43 - IIM(V)Issue_10 Feb_V4

IIMV FIELD

Startup stories

Startup story 1: Overqualified Housewives

Founder: Sankara Karpagam Thennarasu

Many Indian women excel in studies, earn prestigious degrees, and step into the workforce. But
somewhere along the way, many of us get lost in the middle - becoming overqualified housewives as
we take on caregiving responsibilities. I was one of them.
Despite graduating from a top university in Tamil Nadu and working in leading companies for 8+ years, I

found myself on a career break, wondering what was next. During this time, I met countless women like
me - skilled, ambitious, and yearning for an opportunity to thrive. That’s when I decided to act. Not just
for myself, but for all of us.

On 15th August 2022, Overqualified Housewives was born to bring financial independence to women
across India.

The Problem
While more women are pursuing higher education than ever, less than 15% of India’s graduate women
work in paid jobs. Why? Because flexible work opportunities, those that accommodate time and place
are scarce.

The Solution
Overqualified Housewives bridges this gap by connecting businesses looking for reliable talent with
skilled graduate women who need flexibility.

Our impact so far
33,000+ graduate women have joined our platform.
700+ businesses have registered.

Thousands of women have regained financial independence and upskilled themselves to meet today’s
demands.

We’re helping businesses tap into this untapped potential, a game-changer for workplaces everywhere.

Our Vision

We are envisioning a world where: No women has to let go of their family because of career and let go
of career because of family; women don’t have to choose between their family and professional dreams.

At Overqualified Housewives, we believe women can be anything and everything they want to be. And
we’re here to make that a reality.

42 VOL.6/ ISSUE 1, SEP-DEC 2024