The Power of Third Spaces: Harshita on Community & Connection with Ketch-Up
Starting something new in a foreign city can be isolating. For Harshita Sood, the founder of ketch-Up Community and alumna of Western Sydney University, that challenge became the seed of her startup journey. After living across multiple countries and continents, she found herself in Sydney searching for authentic female friendships. That’s when she asked herself the question that would eventually spark her business:
“Why is it so hard to meet like-minded women who just get you?”
What began as a personal challenge grew into ketch-Up, a safe and welcoming space where women could connect intentionally — often over something simple, like food. Through the podcast, Harshita opened up about her experiences, motivations, and the milestones that shaped her founder journey.
Here are five key themes from her story that resonate deeply with startup founders and students alike.
The Importance of Female Friendships
For Harshita, female friendships weren’t just about companionship — they were a source of empowerment. Reflecting on her experiences across Paris, India, and now Sydney, she shared:
“I do think like female friendships are so important in your life because I can sit with a female and like talk my heart out, which I don't think I can do with a guy… they would listen to you without judging you.”
This belief became the foundation of ketch-Up: building a space where women could experience the beauty of friendships that are supportive, non-judgmental, and lasting.
Why Sydney Needs Third Spaces
Harshita identified a unique challenge in Sydney’s social culture: the lack of “third spaces.” Beyond work and home, she noticed there were very few places where authentic connections could flourish.
“I do feel like Sydney does not has a concept of third spaces, which it really lacks… a lot of them who actually turn up to catch up, they always come and say that making friends here is so difficult.”
Her insight highlights how cultural and urban environments influence the way communities connect — and how startups can step in to solve problems that seem invisible, but are widely felt.
Taking the First Leap
The very first ketch-Up meetup was a defining moment. Harshita organised a free event in a café and 40 people signed up. When only eight showed up, it could have been discouraging — but instead, it sparked her belief that she was onto something.
“That was like a very defining moment for me. I was like, this actually works, people want it.”
For student founders, it’s a reminder that success often starts small. What matters is testing your idea in the real world and learning from each step.
Startup Milestones and Recognition
In just one year, Harshita’s journey went from a single meetup to major recognition. She won Launch Pad’s $10,000 prize, hosted pop-ups at networking events, and was nominated for the Seven News Young Achievers Award. These milestones not only validated her idea but also gave her momentum to grow.
Reflecting on the journey, she admitted with honesty:
“When you don't have money in business, it's a problem. And when you have money in the business, it's another problem. Because I'm just like, oh dang I've got money. Where do I actually start spending it now?”
Her candid reflection is one every entrepreneur can relate to: each stage of growth brings its own challenges.
The Power of Putting Yourself Out There
Perhaps the most valuable advice Harshita shared was about embracing openness and seeking support. From connecting with mentors online to networking on LinkedIn, she believes opportunities come from taking the first step.
“If you don’t put yourself out there, you will never know, like, who can help you and who’s actually willing to help you.”
It’s a lesson for every student and founder: the people you meet can transform your journey, and many are willing to help if you’re willing to ask.
A Message for Future Founders
Harshita’s story is more than a startup success; it’s about creating meaningful change from a deeply personal problem. By recognising the need for connection, she turned her own challenge into a thriving community for women in Sydney.
Her journey reminds us that entrepreneurship isn’t always about the next big tech breakthrough — sometimes, it’s about solving everyday struggles with heart, persistence, and courage.
Want to connect with ketch-Up?
Follow them on Instagram @ketchup_up_au or visit ketchupcommunity.com.