It’s been two overwhelming months since I took over as the first CEO of SaaSBoomi. Being someone who’s often found backstage and on the last rows of crowded halls, I was ushered to its very center that basks with a proverbial spotlight.
To be honest, the word CEO never really struck a chord. I’m still getting used to it and there’s a sense of hesitation when someone asks me to step forward after calling out the designation. However, I see this role as an avenue of continuous learning and an opportunity to be at the forefront of community building – something that I absolutely love.
In line with the above, LOL (Learn Out Loud) is going to be my monthly email to all our key stakeholders, ecosystem partners, and governing members, where I share excerpts from both my official planner and personal journal.
Let’s dive in! ?
From my official planner:
✅ Continue to build a volunteer-driven community at a pace that’s slow but highly organized.
✅ Onboard people who are a natural choice for accountability rather than just experts in SaaS.
✅ Harness the true value of our full-time staff with the combined efforts of specialists who will contribute on a part-time basis.
✅ Actively leverage the governance council to build an ongoingly strong org structure.
✅ Align all contributors to SaaSBoomi’s vision and governance.
From my personal journal:
? 6th April, 2023 – My day’s plan was just to have a good conversation while munching on some scrumptious lunch, at Monsoon Cafe, near Delhi airport. I just felt like letting the NCR folks know that they are important and help would reach them wherever they are getting stuck. However, the discussion helped me find an amazing bunch of volunteers who are very keen to execute and build the NCR and Jaipur chapters – something which I have failed to do so far.
? 1st May, 2023 – A bittersweet May Day evening at the Guwahati Airport, as I return home from SaaSBoomi’s 4th annual offsite. My bag is filled with beautiful memories of amazing people, great conversations, timeless bonding, and everlasting friendships. Meghalaya is truly a magical land where people worship nature and co-exist graciously amidst a matriarchal tribal culture. This trip was a reminder to find joy in simple things and how functioning as a community can help us accomplish extraordinary feats.
? 24th May, 2023 – Landed in Singapore, earlier today. Feeling super-excited to prime the second international chapter for SaaSBoomi. Also happened to find my way to The Tintin Shop. I grew up reading Tintin comics and the cartoon series which I fondly regard as one of my all-time favourites. The child in me wanted to buy the entire store. However, I stuck to picking up some t-shirts and collectibles that I will cherish forever.
? 26th May, 2023 – Our 2nd international chapter is now primed and ready to go. I networked with 80+ Singapore-based SaaS founders who showcased deep passion and love towards what they are building. In my learnings about the country’s history, Singapore has always embraced the power of community. I’m sure the same will transpire into SaaSBoomi.
? 3rd June, 2023 – A blissful Sunday at the Padukone – Dravid Centre for Sports Excellence, concluding the SaaSBoomi Badminton League 2023. The tournament witnessed a phenomenal turnout of 160+ SaaS enthusiasts, all competing with the spirit of true sportsmanship. John Wooden didn’t lie when he said, Sports don’t build character. They reveal it.
Okay, I think I’ve typed enough! ?
Leaving y’all with this recent piece where I attempt to unpack the art of recruiting volunteers with care and empowering them to unleash their full potential, based on my experience of having built communities for almost 2 decades now.
Sincerely,
Avinash Raghava
Founding Volunteer & CEO, SaaSBoomi
