Sumit Sharma founded Vision Wave and created the Akshan cane—a smart device designed to assist blind individuals—after spending time understanding their challenges. Inspired by his father and Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, he emphasizes the importance of empathy, hands-on experience, and perseverance. Despite facing numerous obstacles, Sumit remains committed to improving lives through technology.

Sumit Sharma is from Jhansi; he lives with his father, mother, and younger sister. He founded a company called Vision Wave, driven by a passion for helping people.

Growing up, he was inspired by his father operating on various machines, which generated his interest in engineering. Thus, he pursued his engineering degree in electronics. He discussed technology with his father, including his interest in it and his decision to study electrical engineering.

While in college, Sumit took on an important project: designing a cane for blind people. He spent two months getting to know them, understanding their daily challenges and needs. Living with them and talking to them opened his eyes to the dangers they face, such as relying solely on touch and being vulnerable to animal attacks.

With a big heart and solid engineering skills, Sumit created a smart white cane named Akshan, which means eyes in Sanskrit. It took him a year to turn his idea into a real product, facing many obstacles along the way, including a lack of funding and time. There were tough moments when he doubted himself, especially when he saw his friends landing jobs, but he couldn't give up on his mission to help.

It took him one year to convert the project into a product, with a lot of struggles. Sumit’s journey was not a smooth one, though. He says that while they were short on funding and time, they also had a moral responsibility towards the blind people, so they could not quit. He says that sometimes his confidence would shake when he would see his friend getting a job and working successfully, but he didn't let go of his project.

The Akshan cane has a range of features to assist users. It alerts them to objects nearby with alarms and vibrations, helping them navigate safely. If an object comes within seven feet, it lights up. If it’s within four feet, it beeps, and if it’s just two feet away, it vibrates. At night, the cane lights up automatically, ensuring the user is visible. Plus, there’s an emergency button to share their location with loved ones quickly and a remote to help find the cane if it gets lost.

One key to Akshan’s success is Sumit’s approach to listening to his customers. He stays in direct contact with them, making sure he understands their needs. He makes it a priority to understand and meet their individual needs.

One memorable incident he shares highlights the impact of his invention. During testing, there was a blind child returning home from school whose bus had a breakdown, leaving him stranded. To make matters worse, the child's phone was out of battery. Fortunately, he was able to use the cane to signal for help. Sumit quickly booked a cab and sent it to the child's location, demonstrating how the device not only serves as a mobility aid but also enhances safety and support for those who rely on it.

Sumit looks up to two significant role models: his father and Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam. He finds inspiration in Dr. Kalam's life, which encourages him to work hard, while his father's unwavering support—both emotional and financial—gives him the strength to keep going. One quote from Dr. Kalam that resonates with him is, If your education is not for society, it would be considered a waste.

Sumit emphasizes the importance of being a good listener, as understanding others is key in his line of work. He advises those wanting to enter this field to combine solid technical skills with effective marketing and a good dose of patience.

Reflecting on his journey, he believes that if he had chosen a corporate path, he wouldn’t have earned the same respect and admiration he receives now for his efforts to improve the lives of his customers through his products.

When it comes to education versus experience, Sumit firmly believes in the value of hands-on experience, as it equips him to solve real-world problems.

If given a chance to change anything, Sumit wouldn't alter a thing. He enjoys the satisfaction he gains from seeing the smiles on people’s faces. The positive impact of his work brings him a sense of fulfilment and recognition that he cherishes.

Sumit considers himself a natural leader, having taken on various roles since childhood, whether on the basketball court as a team captain or leading the college adventure club.

To recharge, he enjoys watching the popular comedy show Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah, which reminds him to find joy in life and not get bogged down by trivial issues.

He also notes that the COVID-19 pandemic has made people more tech-savvy and compassionate. It has encouraged individuals to come together, prioritize health, and support one another in meaningful ways.

Sumit has a powerful message for future entrepreneurs: struggles and failures are part of the journey, but it’s essential to keep climbing and pushing forward. Avoid distractions, and never lose sight of your goals.