Rons Banwal
Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai
Mumbai, Jan 12: Meet Francis Rasquinha, founder of Francis Shipping, whose inspiring journey from Mangaluru to Mumbai continues to motivate aspiring entrepreneurs.
Humble beginnings in Bondanthila
Francis Gasper Rasquinha was born on October 3, 1952, in the small village of Bondanthila, located in Kelarai, Mangaluru. The third of six children, Francis grew up in humble surroundings. His early years were marked by struggles that shaped his resilience and determination.
After attending a Kannada-medium school, financial difficulties forced Francis to leave his education behind at the tender age of eight. To support his family, he began working as a houseboy in Mangaluru, a role that instilled in him a sense of responsibility far beyond his years.
A life-changing journey to Mumbai
At the age of 14, Francis’s elder sisters took him to Mumbai, a journey made by boat that would prove pivotal in his life. In the bustling city, he worked as a house helper for two years, facing challenges but never losing his desire to grow and learn.
When he turned 16, opportunity knocked in the form of a job as an office boy at Ebrahim Karmali, a custom house agent firm. This was Francis's entry into the shipping and logistics industry, a field where he would one day make a significant mark.
Building experience and overcoming setbacks
In 1979, Francis married and embraced new responsibilities. However, his happiness was short-lived as he lost his job shortly after. Determined not to give up, he returned to Mangaluru and, with the support of a former employer, secured a role as a branch manager at P Cawaji & Co in Delhi.
During his three years in Delhi, Francis gained invaluable experience in the shipping industry. By 1983, he partnered with four like-minded individuals to establish International Cargo Forwarders, a company that worked hard to earn a reputation for reliability and excellence.
The founding of Francis Shipping Agency
Despite his success, Francis had a bigger dream—to create something truly his own. In 1992, he took a leap of faith and founded Francis Shipping Agency with just six staff members. Under his leadership, the company grew steadily, eventually employing 250 people.
Through hard work, dedication, and teamwork, Francis built a respected name in the CHA and shipping industry. The journey, however, was far from easy. He faced numerous challenges but persevered with courage and determination, guided by his principles of hard work and resilience.
Gratitude and family support
Francis attributes much of his success to the unwavering support of his sister and brother-in-law, who brought him to Mumbai, and to his late employers, who gave him opportunities to learn and grow. Their faith in him laid the foundation for his achievements.
Equally important has been the support of his family. Blessed with a loving wife and three children, Francis acknowledges their role in his journey, describing them as his greatest source of joy and strength.
Achievements and a legacy of inspiration
Over the years, Francis Shipping Agency’s success has been recognized with numerous awards and accolades. These achievements are a testament to the collective effort of everyone who contributed to the journey.
Looking back on his life, Francis Rasquinha feels humbled and grateful. From his modest beginnings in Bondanthila to leading a thriving business, his story is a powerful reminder that no dream is too big when pursued with passion and integrity.
Francis dedicates his journey to all those who have supported him and to the many individuals who continue to inspire him. His life serves as a beacon of hope and encouragement for young entrepreneurs striving to achieve their dreams.