MBA sparks western Sydney startup success for graduate
An encounter with Western Sydney University’s business incubator set Master of Business Administration (MBA) graduate Harshita Sood on the path to founding a fast-growing startup in the heart of western Sydney.
She credits the University’s Business School and Launch Pad incubator with helping her turn an idea into Ketch‑Up – a community helping women across Sydney forge meaningful friendships and overcome social isolation.
“I really think it was a turning point in my life when one of my professors introduced me to the startup incubator at the University, this helped me network outside the classroom as well as work on something of my own,” said Harshita.
An idea which was seeded during a start-up subject delivered in partnership with Launch Pad and the Business School, ‘Ketch‑Up’ focuses on creating real-world connections through curated small-group meetups at local cafés and restaurants.
Based out of Parramatta, the initiative is creating real-world connections and fostering inclusivity through curated meetups in small groups, connecting women of all ages and backgrounds in a safe, welcoming space.
Since its launch in 2024, Ketch-Up has hosted over 40 meetups and grown organically to a community of 500+ women. The awarded startup was one of top 5 finalists in the category for the Small Business Award NSW/ACT for Channel 7 Awards, and won the Best Pitch Award and $10,000 in funding from Launch Pad.
“I was always keen to have something of my own. Entrepreneurship has always been very attractive to me since you can work on anything that truly matters to you while building and breaking things together.”
After moving to western Sydney three years ago, Harshita said the region provided strong opportunities for both professional and personal growth.
“I have loved it so much living in western Sydney. It’s given me lots of opportunities to grow my business as well as meet some really amazing people who are doing such great things in the region.”
Originally from India, Harshita studied a Bachelor’s in Philosophy from the University of Delhi, a Master’s in Public Policy and Politics from Sciences Po, Paris. She spent several years working in marketing for tech companies in Paris before relocating to Australia.
“Moving to Australia was a change, but I was able to secure a job at a supply chain company as a Product Marketing Specialist while studying at the uni and then quickly move to a fintech startup right after my graduation. Lately, I have been working as a Marketing Manager at a cybersecurity company where I manage the marketing department for the APAC region.”
Harshita said the flexibility of the MBA program was key to achieving her goals.
“With classes in the evening, it fitted well into my day job and the numerous other things that I had going. My professors were always very supportive of me, and I had great support from peers.”
She said Western’s MBA stood out for its practical focus.
“I was looking for a mix of academic and practical subjects when choosing an MBA program, and Western Sydney University’s Business School was the perfect place that landed in that sweet spot.”
Her advice for students is to make the most of opportunities beyond the classroom.
“Be open and curious. You will learn a lot more in an MBA program if you connect and network with people outside your classroom. Go above and beyond in your efforts, and if you believe in doing something, this is the right time.”
Western Sydney University’s Business School, celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, is shaping the next generation of leaders by providing students with the skills and opportunities to drive impact across Western Sydney and beyond.
ENDS.
25 June 2026
Media Unit