As a trailblazer in the sports education sector, Tanvi Lunawat, Director of Operations at the Institute of Sports Science and Technology (ISST), has carved a unique niche in bridging the gap between the dynamic sports industry and the academic world. Her entrepreneurial journey is a testament to her relentless passion for sports and education, coupled with an innate ability to inspire and empower.
A Vision Rooted in Inspiration
Tanvi’s journey is deeply intertwined with the stories of incredible women who shaped her worldview. Her mother-in-law, Ujwala Lunawat, an 8-time national basketball medalist, instilled in her the drive to excel and remain resilient. Simultaneously, her mother, a homemaker, showcased the values of perseverance and determination, which have been the cornerstones of Tanvi’s career.
She also credits her husband, Dr. Vipul Lunawat, for being her mentor and unwavering support system. His belief in her abilities has been pivotal in navigating the entrepreneurial challenges of running ISST.
Building the Future of Sports Education
Tanvi’s foray into sports education stemmed from her belief in the transformative power of sports. Recognizing the growing demand for trained professionals in the sports industry, she co-founded ISST with a vision to provide a world-class platform for sports management and education.
Under her leadership, ISST has become a beacon of innovative learning, combining theoretical knowledge with practical exposure. Tanvi’s roles at ISST are as dynamic as the institution itself—overseeing classroom operations, mentoring students, and teaching courses such as Principles of Sports Management, Strategic Management, and Sports Facility & Event Management.
“For me, teaching is a two-way street. My students bring fresh perspectives, challenge norms, and often inspire me with their ideas,” she says, highlighting the mutual learning environment she fosters at ISST.
Breaking Barriers and Building Legacies
Starting a venture in an evolving field like sports education came with its challenges, from designing a cutting-edge curriculum to securing partnerships with industry leaders. Yet, Tanvi’s resilience turned obstacles into stepping stones. One of her proudest achievements is the Dr. P. C. Shejwalkar Scholarship Program, which ensures financial constraints do not hinder talented students from pursuing their dreams in sports.
Through strategic collaborations with professional leagues, high-performance centers, and sports organizations, ISST equips its students with the skills needed to excel in the real-world sports ecosystem.
Leading with Purpose
As a woman entrepreneur, Tanvi has redefined success by combining her professional accomplishments with a meaningful impact on her community. She has challenged stereotypes and proved that women can excel in male-dominated industries.
“Entrepreneurship is a journey of self-discovery,” she says. “Every challenge teaches resilience and adaptability, and every student success story reminds me why I do what I do.”
A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Tanvi envisions ISST expanding its reach and continuing to innovate in sports education. She aims to cultivate a culture of lifelong learning and collaboration while empowering the next generation of sports professionals to meet industry demands with confidence and expertise.
For Tanvi, success transcends professional milestones. It lies in creating opportunities, inspiring change, and making a lasting impact. Her story is one of purpose, passion, and perseverance—a true celebration of entrepreneurship in action.
As part of the 75 Women Entrepreneurs of India 2024, Tanvi Lunawat’s journey is a shining example of how one woman’s dedication can revolutionize an industry and inspire countless others to dream big.
