Biography:
Nazanin Daneshvar, born in 1983 in Tehran, is an Iranian Internet entrepreneur known for founding and running the discount site Takhfifan. Her journey as a woman establishing a company in Iran has attracted attention and admiration. Despite numerous challenges, she has successfully navigated the competitive tech industry and made a significant impact on society.
Daneshvar’s entrepreneurial journey began after completing her graduate studies in Tehran. She then ventured to London, where she assisted a startup aiming to penetrate the Iranian market. It was during this time that she honed her skills and gained valuable experience in the business world.
In 2011, Daneshvar launched Takhfifan, a pioneering e-commerce platform in Iran. As the first female website entrepreneur in the country, she faced skepticism and encountered various obstacles. Many potential business contacts doubted her abilities, leading her to enlist her father’s support during the first year to establish credibility.
Takhfifan operates similarly to Groupon, offering substantial discounts to customers and passing on the discounts provided by suppliers. Daneshvar’s innovative approach and determination to succeed helped her carve a niche in the industry. Her company not only provided a unique service to the Iranian market but also inspired other aspiring entrepreneurs, both women and men.
Despite the difficulties she faced, Daneshvar remains positive about Iran’s progress. She champions the country’s improvement and actively encourages Iranian emigrants to return and contribute to its further development. Through her achievements, she demonstrates that Iran possesses immense potential and opportunities for growth.
In recognition of her accomplishments, Daneshvar was invited to speak at the fourth annual Global Female Leaders Summit in Berlin in 2017. She shared her personal challenges and discussed the cultural glass ceilings that women managers face in Iran. Her presence at the summit highlighted the significant role she plays in empowering women and fostering gender equality in the business sector.
Daneshvar’s success is further amplified by the economic sanctions imposed on Iran by various countries. These sanctions, while limiting imports and exports, create a conducive environment for the establishment of local versions of international platforms. With her expertise and determination, she has leveraged these circumstances to develop Takhfifan and contribute to the growth of e-commerce in Iran.
In addition to her professional achievements, Daneshvar actively mentors other women aspiring to enter the e-commerce industry. Her ten years of experience have equipped her with valuable insights and knowledge that she graciously shares with fellow entrepreneurs. By nurturing and supporting others, she fosters a community of empowered women striving for success.
Awards:
– In 2019, Nazanin Daneshvar was named one of UNCTAD’s eTrade for Women Advocates from the developing world. This prestigious recognition highlights her significant contributions to empowering women in the tech industry and promoting gender equality.
– Although Clarisse Iribagiza from Rwanda was unable to attend the award ceremony on the periphery of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, Daneshvar’s achievement as an eTrade for Women Advocate solidifies her position as a trailblazer in the field.
Nazanin Daneshvar’s entrepreneurial spirit, perseverance, and dedication to empowering women have made her a prominent figure in Iran’s tech industry. Her journey serves as an inspiration to women worldwide, showcasing the immense impact they can make in traditionally male-dominated sectors. Through Takhfifan, Daneshvar has not only revolutionized e-commerce in Iran but also contributed to the shaping of women’s history in the country.