In today’s fast-paced world, where consumerism often overshadows environmental responsibility, some leaders dare to challenge the norm. One such changemaker is Satyam Mishra, the founder and CEO of Believe Natural, a brand that’s reshaping the eco-friendly product industry with its innovative and biodegradable menstrual products.
In an engaging conversation with Swadesi, Satyam Mishra shared his inspiring journey—from his childhood curiosity about nature to building a business that prioritizes both environmental and social impact. Here’s a deep dive into his story and vision for a greener tomorrow.
The Spark of an Idea: From Curiosity to Creation
Satyam’s journey into the world of eco-friendly products didn’t happen overnight. Growing up, he often wondered about the environmental footprint of everyday hygiene products.
“The environment has always fascinated me,” Satyam recalls. “I realized how much non-biodegradable waste menstrual products generate, and yet, very few were talking about it. That was my moment of clarity—I knew we needed to innovate.”
Breaking into the menstrual product industry was no easy feat, especially since it remains a taboo subject in many parts of society. Satyam faced resistance and skepticism, not just from potential customers but even from manufacturers who were hesitant to work on biodegradable alternatives. However, his determination to create a product that benefits both people and the planet kept him going.
After extensive research and studying eco-friendly practices abroad, he founded Believe Natural—a brand committed to introducing sustainable menstrual products like biodegradable pads and washable cloth pads.
The Role of Youth Parliament Event: A Catalyst for Vision
While entrepreneurship was a significant step, Satyam’s foundation as an environmentalist was strengthened when he participated in an event organized by the Youth Parliament after he had already started Believe Natural.
“The Youth Parliament event was a turning point,” he says. “It wasn’t just about debating policies—it was about understanding their real-world impact.”
This experience provided Satyam with a deeper understanding of how policies influence societal behavior, especially regarding waste management and sustainable practices. It further fueled his commitment to pushing for policy changes that support eco-conscious living in India.
Menstrual Health: Breaking Taboos with Innovation
Discussing menstrual health openly remains a challenge in many parts of India. For Satyam, introducing biodegradable menstrual products wasn’t just a business decision—it was a mission to break societal taboos and promote healthier, eco-friendly choices.
“When we started, we faced skepticism, especially from conservative communities. Menstrual health is still a whispered topic in many households,” he explains.
To tackle this, Believe Natural adopted an education-first approach. The company distributed free samples in underprivileged areas and organized awareness programs to help people understand the health and environmental benefits of switching to biodegradable menstrual products.
He also shared an interesting cross-cultural insight:
“In countries like Germany, travelers often prefer washable menstrual products due to strict waste management practices. That inspired us to promote reusable cloth pads here in India too.”
Spiritual Consciousness: The Invisible Force Behind the Brand
Satyam’s approach to business goes beyond profits—he strongly believes in the power of spiritual consciousness and manifestation.
“Sustainable living starts with the mind,” he asserts. “Just like meditation helps manifest peace, businesses should manifest a clear vision and a sense of responsibility towards society.”
This belief influenced many of his business decisions, from the materials chosen for production to the way employees are trained. By fostering a work culture rooted in mindfulness and environmental responsibility, Believe Natural aims to create products that are not just safe for the environment but also for the people using them.
Challenges on the Ground: Understanding Real Needs
One of the most eye-opening experiences during Believe Natural’s journey has been the ground realities surrounding menstrual hygiene in India.
Satyam shared a surprising statistic: nearly 95% of women in lower-income communities were unaware of biodegradable menstrual products. For many, accessibility and affordability were significant concerns.
“We visited communities where women were still using unsafe materials due to lack of awareness or financial constraints,” Satyam reveals. “We realized education had to be our first step, not sales.”
The company now actively collaborates with NGOs and local organizations to distribute products and conduct educational workshops across the country.
The Future of Believe Natural: A Sustainable Tomorrow
With its biodegradable menstrual products already making a positive impact, Believe Natural is now gearing up to expand its product line.
“We’re working on introducing biodegradable personal care products beyond menstrual hygiene,” Satyam shares. “Our mission is to make sustainability a household habit, not just a niche market trend.”
The company also plans to launch educational partnerships with schools and colleges, ensuring that the next generation grows up with a stronger understanding of sustainable living.
Lessons for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
As the interview drew to a close, Satyam offered a few words of wisdom for young entrepreneurs:
- Curiosity is Key:
“Never stop asking questions. My journey started with a simple curiosity about waste and sustainability.” - Sustainability is a Mindset:
“Eco-friendly practices aren’t just for businesses; they’re for individuals too. Start small—reduce, reuse, and recycle.” - Manifest Your Vision:
“Believe in your ideas and manifest them into reality. Clarity of purpose can move mountains.”
Final Thoughts: Small Steps, Big Impact
Satyam Mishra’s journey is a testament to the power of innovation driven by purpose. His brand, Believe Natural, is more than just a business—it’s a movement advocating for environmental responsibility and menstrual health awareness.
So, the next time you choose a menstrual product, remember: your decision can impact more than just your health—it can shape the planet’s future.
Thank you for tuning in to Swadesi. Until next time, stay informed, stay responsible.
