A Mumbai-based graphic designer, Kamlesh Kamtekar, took to LinkedIn to share his personal story of resilience in the face of adversity. With 14 years of experience in his field, Kamtekar was unexpectedly laid off, and despite his best efforts, he struggled to find new employment. In a surprising turn of events, he ultimately decided to trade in his design software for a new career as an autorickshaw driver.
In a candid and now-viral post, Kamtekar revealed that he fell victim to company-wide cost-cutting measures, resulting in the loss of his previous job. Despite his extensive experience as an assistant creative manager in graphic design, spanning 14 years, he struggled to secure a new position, sending out countless resumes and leveraging his professional network to no avail, with five long months passing without a single job opportunity materializing.
“I have reached out to many friends for referrals, but I have not been successful yet. I have applied to numerous positions on LinkedIn as well, but my applications have consistently been rejected,” he said.
Kamtekar’s job search was met with rejection from several organizations, all of which cited an inability to meet his salary requirements. This led him to ponder an unconventional solution. “After this feedback, I thought, why not start my own business and earn money at the same low salary instead of working somewhere else? At least I will have my own income,” Kamtekar wrote. He ultimately made the surprising decision to set aside his design expertise and embark on a new venture. “So I decided to sacrifice my all designing skills and drive an auto rickshaw. Give me your blessing for my new business,” he added.
Kamtekar’s post sparked a lively reaction from professionals on the platform. While some users expressed empathy and concern, others praised his courage. “this is not even an inspiration or inspiring, this is misfortune or we say in our language “Gathikedu” at its peak,” one user commented, highlighting the challenges Kamtekar faced. On the other hand, another user commended his bravery, saying “That’s most courageous thing to do Kamlesh Kamtekar and fortune favours the brave.”
A third user offered a heartfelt response, acknowledging Kamtekar’s determination to provide for his loved ones. “I wished if you kept trying you would have got the job you wanted. But that’s another part. Right now you are still determined to keep grinding and making sure the food and shelter is provided. All the best,” the user wrote, conveying a sense of admiration and support for Kamtekar’s resilience.
