Born to plantation workers in the remote village of Pampanar, Idukki, Albin Antony’s rise to prominence in Kochi’s branding and design scene is nothing short of remarkable. His early life was marked by hardship and determination. At just 12 years old, Albin would travel over 16 kilometres through dense forests just to use a computer. Despite his current success, he stays deeply connected to the struggles of his past.
A Hard-Fought Childhood
Albin’s journey began in a challenging environment. The nearest computer centre, which he frequented, was miles away. He would often wait for his turn with a mix of impatience and excitement, eager to explore the digital world. His early artistic talents were expressed on walls, scraps of old paper, and glass. While his sister excelled academically, Albin’s notable achievement was a certificate for first place in a drawing competition with 700 participants in Peerumedu.
At 18, Albin arrived in Kochi with dreams of becoming a graphic designer. His first job was at V-Guard in the godown, where he sorted new products and managed returns. Despite the mundane nature of the work, Albin approached it with dedication, convinced that his persistence would one day open doors to the world of design.
From Struggle to Success
Albin’s hard work and sincerity soon made him a favourite within the company. After a year, he transitioned from the godown to an office boy role, marking the beginning of his ascent. His story of success is a testament to the power of perseverance, self-education, and the unwavering support of his company.
Following his father’s death, Albin’s mother worked tirelessly in a tea plantation to support her children. Later, she took a job as a cook in a church in Kochi. Determined to provide for his mother and to uplift his family, Albin taught himself design and made the most of every opportunity that came his way.
When the company’s advertising agency faced delays in designing a product cover, Albin seized the opportunity. Despite lacking his own computer and facing inadequate internet and software issues, he utilized borrowed equipment and overcame these hurdles with sheer determination, delivering a design that impressed the management.
A Career Takes Flight
The success of Albin’s design marked a turning point. He began arriving at the office early and staying late to hone his skills. His dedication paid off when the company enrolled him in a visual media communication course, which he completed with distinction. As the company’s first official designer, Albin’s creativity and ability shone through in numerous major projects.
Eight years later, with the experience and knowledge gained from V-Guard, Albin joined Ernst & Young. After four years, driven by a desire for new challenges, he embarked on a new venture: founding CNM. Starting from a small room in his house with just four employees, the early days were fraught with financial challenges and sleepless nights. But Albin’s unwavering resolve and hard work transformed CNM into a thriving enterprise.
A Vision Realized
Through his perseverance and outstanding design skills, Albin impressed clients, including his former employer V-Guard, and revitalized CNM. Six years after its start, CNM has grown into a leading branding and design firm with over thirty employees, managing significant projects both domestically and internationally.
Albin Antony’s journey from a struggling young man to a successful entrepreneur is a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit. His story inspires others to pursue their dreams with resilience, hard work, and unwavering determination
For more information visit:- https://www.cnmindia.in/
