I N S P I R I NG WOME N Shruti Bhalia BUSINESSWOMAN [ Shruti Bhalia The UPS Store #2354 1325 Howard Avenue, Burlingame 650.348.7447 store2354@theupsstore.com theupsstorelocal.com/2354 facebook.com/theupsstore2354 What motivates you in your life? The people around me—my family, my customers, my employees, my friends and the broader Peninsula community. Their trust, support and stories push me to keep growing and giving back. I’m also motivated by the idea of leaving a lasting impact, by giving back to the community that supports our minority owned business so much and by building something that extends beyond just a business. Recently, we just gave back to our wonderful LA community by shipping hundreds of boxes complimentary to organizations and volunteers that were on the ground to help the fire victims. What makes Peninsula life most meaningful to you? It’s the people. The Peninsula is a unique mix of longtime residents, newcomers, small business owners and innovators. The sense of community here is strong, and it’s inspiring to see how people support each other. Where do you find inspiration on the Peninsula? I find inspiration in the resilience and creativity of local businesses and organizations. Seeing other entrepreneurs build their dreams, watching nonprofits make a difference, and witnessing how the community comes together in times of need always inspire me to keep pushing forward. What puts a smile on your face? A returning customer who stops by just to say hello, seeing a business I have helped succeed, or even something as simple as a beautiful sunset/ sunrise. Those small amounts add up and make me appreciate this journey. PHOTOGRAPHY: IRENE SEARLES
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