Venkatesh (Venki) Varma Mandapati, an accomplished entrepreneur, podcast host, data scientist, and product evangelist, embarked on a remarkable journey that showcases his unwavering determination and resounding success. From the young age of 15, Venkatesh exhibited his leadership skills and dedication by representing his high school in the Indian Air Force National Cadet Corps program, actively engaging in training camps and community service initiatives.
Graduating with distinction in engineering in 2012, Venkatesh began his professional career as a software engineer at Cognizant Technology Solutions, where he collaborated with global clients, gaining invaluable exposure to a world of opportunities driven by technology’s transformative power.
In 2015, Venkatesh’s academic prowess led him to receive a research scholarship for a Master’s program in Information Technology at the University of Memphis. Imbued with a deep passion for learning and an innate curiosity for emerging technologies, he delved into the realm of data science, further polishing his skill set. During his graduate study, Venkatesh embarked on various research projects, notable ones such as the groundbreaking work on “Data insights to help reduce crime in Memphis neighborhoods” earning him the prestigious award for first place at the annual TechUP conference by Association of Management Information Systems.
The experiences garnered throughout his educational journey provided Venkatesh with a profound realization: people across the globe face similar challenges due to a lack of opportunities, guidance, and access to resources. Determined to address this widespread issue, Venkatesh resolved to find a solution for himself and millions of others worldwide.
Upon completing his studies, Venkatesh began his professional career as a digital analyst at AutoZone Inc., meticulously analyzing vast quantities of customer analytics from AutoZone.com and AutoZonepro.com. Guided by his unwavering spirit and commitment to enhancing customer experiences, he led the implementation of a new web data capture strategy, resulting in a reduction of vendor expenses by almost $250K annually.
In October 2017, Venkatesh embarked on a new chapter in his career, joining FedEx as a Senior Data Scientist. Tasked with assisting the Digital Marketing team in formulating innovative strategies to enhance customer interactions on FedEx.com, Venkatesh leveraged his expertise to collaborate with teams across the globe on multifaceted projects. His profound impact extended beyond his primary responsibilities, as he took on the responsibility of training over 100 FedEx team members worldwide on cutting-edge web analytics tools, facilitating the seamless adoption of new technologies.
In recognition of his exceptional contributions, Venkatesh was promoted to the role of Data Scientist Advisor in 2020. This pivotal career milestone marked the beginning of an extraordinary phase, during which he played an instrumental role in launching the revolutionary shipping application, MAGIC. Through his expertise in developing data models, defining product KPIs, and working closely with product management teams, Venkatesh facilitated significant increases in new customer adoption and customer retention. Moreover, he demonstrated his exceptional leadership capabilities by managing a $4.2 million annual budget as the designated budget lead for the Managing Director. These achievements garnered him the distinguished “Shining Star Award” at FedEx, solidifying his reputation as a luminary within the organization.
During his MBA studies at the University of Memphis in 2018, Venkatesh’s passion for creating impactful products grew exponentially. As a resident at the University of Memphis Crews Center for Entrepreneurship, he actively participated in various national and international business plan competitions, further fueling his entrepreneurial ambitions.
Venkatesh attributes his remarkable success to the invaluable guidance and support he received from his mentors, recognizing the profound impact they have had on his journey. Motivated by a desire to extend similar opportunities to others, he founded UpSquad.com, a visionary platform that partners with organizations committed to making a difference in their communities. UpSquad empowers nonprofits, schools, government agencies, and businesses to build cohesive online communities, streamlining their tools and amplifying engagement. By seamlessly integrating multiple capabilities, including video conferencing, messaging, event management, social networking, and data insights, UpSquad facilitates the achievement of organizational goals.
In 2020, Venkatesh was accepted into the prestigious University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education Education Entrepreneurship Master’s program, renowned for its legacy of fostering groundbreaking education startups. Through this program, he deepened his understanding of business dynamics while pursuing his passion for education and social change. Combining elements of business, education, design, and entrepreneurship, the program equipped Venkatesh with the entrepreneurial mindset necessary to launch a successful global education startup, providing workforce opportunities to individuals who would otherwise be deprived of such prospects. Throughout his journey, Venkatesh raised over $1.3 million in funding, transforming UpSquad into a reality.
Through incubators, accelerator programs, and interactions with experienced mentors and fellow entrepreneurs, Venkatesh embraced lean methodologies and customer discovery principles. These iterative processes allowed him to truly understand the core problems and pivot UpSquad accordingly, propelling it to its current stage of success.
Today, UpSquad collaborates with over 25 organizations throughout the United States, making a tangible difference in diverse domains. Whether connecting underserved youth in Chicago with career counselors, facilitating mentorship programs for high school students in Nashville, or linking students with professionals for summer programs in Arkansas, UpSquad empowers individuals and organizations alike to realize their full potential. Notably, Venkatesh’s innovative platform has supported the growth of minority businesses in Minnesota, while also fostering meaningful connections between medical students and professors at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences.
Venkatesh’s exceptional journey is punctuated by numerous accolades, including his recognition as one of the University of Memphis’ “Top 20 under 30” in 2020. Furthermore, UpSquad garnered acclaim as a “Top 64 Student Startup in the US” by SXSW in 2019. Venkatesh’s visionary leadership and innovation were also acknowledged through awards such as the “Shining Star Award” at FedEx and the “Rising Star Award” in 2023. Additionally, his podcast, “Driven by Doing,” captivated audiences, empowering them to take action and effect change.
Throughout his awe-inspiring career, Venkatesh Varma Mandapati, also known as Venki, has remained steadfast in his pursuit of transforming lives through education, technology, and entrepreneurial excellence. With an unwavering commitment to creating a brighter future, he continues to leave an indelible mark on the world, inspiring others to follow in his footsteps.
