The Dubai Business Book Club (DBBC), a knowledge-sharing community founded by Nithin Mathew Thombil, co-founder of wheelsAHOY, recently hosted its first panel discussion titled “Chapters to Ventures.” The event marked a new phase in the Club’s development, moving from a book-focused group to a platform encouraging entrepreneurial dialogue and practical insights.
Established in 2023, DBBC was created to provide Dubai’s growing base of entrepreneurs and professionals a space where learning extends beyond theory—integrating lessons from literature with real-world applications. The panel discussion, themed around the book Beyond Entrepreneurship, featured industry voices discussing how business concepts evolve from ideas into practice.
Moderated by sustainability advocate Sai Krishna, the panel included Mayank B. Varyani, General Manager at AngelSpark; Prateek Tosniwal, Partner at MICS International and Founder of Ivy Growth Associates; and Nithin Mathew Thombil, co-founder of wheelsAHOY. Each speaker shared insights drawn from their own professional journeys, creating a well-rounded conversation around entrepreneurship in the region.
The discussion addressed various aspects of launching and sustaining a start-up in Dubai—from initial challenges to long-term strategic thinking. Topics included the role of failure, adaptability, and personal resilience in the face of an evolving business landscape.
Nithin Mathew Thombil, Founder of Dubai Business Book Club, said: “The vision behind starting the Dubai Business Book Club was to create a space where high-calibre industry experts and entrepreneurs—both seasoned and emerging—can come together to explore how ideas from books can be transformed into real-world ventures. It’s not just about learning; it’s about fostering strategy, sparking ideas, and building a community rooted in collaboration, connection, and continuous inspiration.”
A key segment of the evening focused on venture capital trends in the UAE. Panelists shared insights on what investors look for today and how entrepreneurs can align their strategies for better outcomes. From crafting effective pitch decks to creating people-first cultures, the importance of marrying vision with execution was a recurring message.
The discussion also highlighted the relevance of building a personal brand and establishing thought leadership. Panelists encouraged attendees to take initiative and embrace risk rather than waiting for perfect conditions—a reminder that action often drives learning and growth.
The session attracted aspiring founders, business professionals, and entrepreneurs from across the UAE. It provided a space for exchange—through Q&A segments and informal networking—bringing together individuals who are navigating similar paths.
“This is just the beginning,” said Thombil. “Our vision is to build a collaborative community where people don’t just read about business—they live it, apply it, and grow through it. Through initiatives like this panel, we’re creating bridges between thought and action, between knowledge and opportunity.”
Looking ahead, DBBC plans to host more sessions, including themed book reviews, founder meetups, and focused discussions on innovation, funding, and leadership. As the community grows, the Club aims to further its role in shaping Dubai’s entrepreneurial learning landscape.
