Banking on New Experiences: Vivek's GetSetUp Journey

eet Vivek H., a professional from the banking industry whose life truly represents dedication and unwavering commitment to his career. Born and brought up in Bombay, 63-year-old Vivek's journey from a young college graduate to a seasoned banking veteran spans over four decades, marked by resilience, adaptability, and a passion for finance. 

Vivek's foray into the professional world began during his graduation years when he received a part-time job offer from a bank. This opportunity marked the beginning of his lifelong career in banking. "Immediately after my college, I started going to the bank, and I started working and learning the work," Vivek recalls. His dedication and eagerness to learn set the stage for what would be a lifelong commitment to the banking industry. Throughout his career, Vivek witnessed the evolution of the banking sector in India, transitioning from government sector banks to the emergence of new private sector banks in the late '90s. He started his career with Canara Bank, a government institution, before venturing into the private sector, where he would spend the next 20 years of his career. Vivek's journey saw him moving through various roles and banks, including ING Vysya Bank, Bank of Punjab (which later merged into Centurion Bank and then Dhanlaxmi Bank), and finally, HDFC Bank, where he retired as a Senior Vice President and Zonal Head. In his role at HDFC Bank, Vivek was responsible for branch banking, overseeing the business, audit, housekeeping, and staffing of branches. His leadership and management skills were evident as he managed 35 branches from Palgar to Dadar in Bombay before expanding his expertise to Gujarat and Nagpur, handling up to 100 branches by his retirement,” I’ve always enjoyed my work, and I never thought of switching to any other industry. I enjoyed working in finance."

Vivek’s discovery of GetSetUp is a story of curiosity meeting opportunity. He stumbled upon the platform through social media channels like Facebook and Instagram. Intrigued by what he read about the platform and motivated by a shared interest in exploring new hobbies and making new friends, Vivek decided to join. "I read about it and felt motivated to join because, among their various activities, I found some common to my interests like traveling, discovering new food places, and fitness, so I thought it would be a good opportunity to pursue my interests.” Retirement had opened up a new chapter in his life. As he joined the GetSetUp WhatsApp community, he saw the platform as an avenue to keep his mind active, engage with like-minded individuals, and foster meaningful connections. Also, moving to a new place in Powai without many acquaintances, he was looking forward to building new connections and his social life, ”They say that to remain healthy, your mind should be active. To keep your mind active, you have to meet new people, interact with them, and share new ideas, and through GetSetUp, I am able to pursue my interests, like going out and meeting new friends.” 

Engaging with fellow members in Bombay, he shares how he has enjoyed the camaraderie and intellectual exchange during lunch meets, "We interact with each other, share new ideas, and enjoy good times together. With one friend, I'm in touch daily. We share good morning messages. This platform has truly helped me because, in Bombay, it's tough to make friends and socialize with them," Beyond casual gatherings, Vivek has also joined in on events like musicals at the Radio Club, where he found joy in music, dance, and games, fostering a sense of community and belonging.

Among his numerous other experiences, two stand out for Vivek—the Goa trip and participating in a marathon for the first time at 63. He recalls the Goa trip as “Well planned, well executed, and thoroughly enjoyable, This experience was very unique... I had never seen that part of Goa which GetSetUp had shown me," he recounts. The trip's itinerary introduced him to local villages, people, and cuisine, offering an immersive experience that stood out from his previous visits. Equally transformative was his participation in the Tata Mumbai Marathon, a challenge he embraced with enthusiasm and preparation, walking 7,000 steps daily in anticipation. "Not only did GetSetUp ensure a memorable experience during the Tata Marathon, but they also took exceptional care of us afterward. We were taken to a place where we could relax, recognizing that marathons can be exhausting. This was my first marathon, and the experience was incredible. The arrangements made for our comfort, including foot massages, significantly aided in our recovery. Participating in the marathon at 63 was a milestone made possible by GetSetUp's encouragement. The momentum and support from the community were outstanding. My friends were surprised and impressed when I shared my marathon photos on social media. It boosted my confidence immensely."

Looking ahead, Vivek is enthusiastic about deepening his involvement with the GetSetUp community, particularly within the Fitness and Travel groups, "I'm part of the WhatsApp communities. Although I haven't had much time to participate or contribute regularly, I plan to do so. There were some responsibilities before, but you'll definitely see more of my participation in the future." Through engaging activities, meaningful connections, and shared experiences, Vivek has discovered a vibrant community that continues to fuel his passion for exploration and lifelong learning. His journey also reflects our core values at GetSetUp of empowerment, curiosity, and hospitality, showing that growth and discovery are not confined to any stage of life but are accessible to all who seek them.

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