We live in a world where achieving success early on in your career is often glorified. But what does that say for the rest of the world; those who do not make it before 30? Or the ones who decide to switch their careers altogether?
Switching your career at or after 30 may be a daunting decision. And whatever the reason, it’s no secret that switching careers after a certain age can often be looked down upon. But that shouldn’t stop you. It certainly didn’t stop these powerhouses from making it after 30! Here are six remarkable women from different industries such as entertainment, finance, architecture etc who shattered the conventional timeline and carved a niche for themselves in their respective fields.
From marketer to entrepreneur
Adeline Graham—Founder, Fern and Ade
Adeline Graham began her career in procurement and marketing in the UK. Despite being in the corporate industry for two decades, Graham harboured a passion for interior design and decided to pursue it after she moved to India six years ago. “Over the years, I had many ideas, but when I came to India six years ago it really spoke to me. I was passionate about interior design and decided to move to this field professionally after Covid,” Graham shares. Her frequent business trips to India, especially Chennai, ignited a deeper connection with the country, leading her to a transformative career change.
In late 2022, Graham relocated to Chennai to launch Fern and Ade, a luxury furniture brand curating products from leading European brands. Her showroom, which opened in late 2023, quickly garnered attention for its curated selection of brands like Ethnicraft, Wendelbo, &Tradition, Nanimarquina, and Louis Poulsen. Graham’s venture became synonymous with luxury and elegance in Chennai’s design scene.
Graham’s success is rooted in her ability to combine her corporate skills in procurement and marketing with her passion for design. But the journey was far from easy. Graham recalls losing friends along the way who questioned her decision to move to India. “They thought it was just a phase,” she shares. Despite the challenges, her determination and passion for the craft helped her overcome obstacles with great support from her family and friends who had an unwavering belief in her vision. Looking ahead, Graham plans to expand her business to Mumbai, further solidifying her brand’s presence in India’s luxury market.
