Simon Anandhraj,
Founder and CEO, Freewill Human Empowerment
Could you provide an introduction of yourself to our audience?
Simon Anandhraj is the Founder and CEO of Freewill Human Empowerment, a distinguished trainer, evangelist, emotional intelligence coach, NLP practitioner and coach, corporate trainer, certified career counselor, writer, speaker, and profound thinker. Beyond his professional achievements, he is a passionate football player, dancer, singer, and a dedicated philanthropist, having donated blood over 50 times. As a committed social worker and an advocate against suffering and unhappiness, he continuously strives to empower individuals and communities.
Early Life and Educational Journey - Simon’s professional journey began at an early age. While still in seventh grade, he stepped into the workforce as a helper and welder in a manufacturing company. His passion for motorcycles led him to work at a friend’s garage during his school days, learning valuable skills in mechanics while earning an income. His free time was largely spent on the football field, in the garage, or at church.
Could you provide an introduction of yourself to our audience?
Simon Anandhraj is the Founder and CEO of Freewill Human Empowerment, a distinguished trainer, evangelist, emotional intelligence coach, NLP practitioner and coach, corporate trainer, certified career counselor, writer, speaker, and profound thinker. Beyond his professional achievements, he is a passionate football player, dancer, singer, and a dedicated philanthropist, having donated blood over 50 times. As a committed social worker and an advocate against suffering and unhappiness, he continuously strives to empower individuals and communities.
Early Life and Educational Journey - Simon’s professional journey began at an early age. While still in seventh grade, he stepped into the workforce as a helper and welder in a manufacturing company. His passion for motorcycles led him to work at a friend’s garage during his school days, learning valuable skills in mechanics while earning an income. His free time was largely spent on the football field, in the garage, or at church.
Personal Challenges and Transformation - Life’s journey is often unpredictable, marked by both linear progress and unforeseen disruptions. Simon encountered profound personal struggles, including the heartbreak of losing a significant relationship, leading him into a phase of self-isolation, substance abuse, and suicidal thoughts for three months. The tragic passing of his sister further deepened his emotional distress. However, a three-day hospitalization due to food poisoning and viral infections served as a wake-up call, prompting a transformational change in his life.
Professional Growth and Leadership - Simon's career trajectory is a testament to his resilience and versatility. His early professional experiences ranged from working as a mechanic and a printing press designer to roles as a barber, butcher, and sales and marketing professional for an amusement park. Before completing his degree, he secured a position as a loan officer at HDFC Bank. Over six months, he attended 163 interviews, demonstrating remarkable perseverance before securing a role at Perot Systems as a Financial Transaction Executive (Analyst). This marked the beginning of his ascent in the corporate world, where he quickly advanced in human resources, administration, and corporate leadership, mastering international business and management practices over six years.
A Journey of Impact and Influence - Born in Chennai, India, Simon has traveled extensively across South India, bringing transformation to over 200 corporate organizations spanning diverse industries. His expertise has been sought after by government entities such as Heavy Vehicles Factory (HVF) and Ordnance Clothing Factory (OCF), public sector giants like Indian Oil Corporation and Chennai Petroleum Corporation Limited (CPCL), as well as multinational corporations like Coca-Cola and PepsiCo.
Could you tell us about your venture Freewill Human Empowerment and what are the key services it offers?
Freewill Human Empowerment is an organization dedicated to attitude reengineering and intellectual empowerment through counselling, coaching, and training services.
Vision - To become the world’s leading provider of attitude reengineering and intellectual empowerment, helping individuals of all ages achieve emotional well-being and intellectual growth. Freewill Human Empowerment strives to be recognized globally for its exemplary work in fostering compassion, integrity, and professional excellence.
· To create enlightened individuals of all ages by transforming attitudes and enhancing knowledge.
Key Corporate Training Services and Delivery Methods for corporates
Corporate Grooming & Professional Skills
· Interactive workshops with role-playing exercises to instill etiquette and professionalism.
Neuro-Scientific Transformational Program
· Cognitive behavioural therapy techniques to manage stress, time, and anger effectively.
Behavioural Training
· Emotional intelligence assessments and personalized coaching.
Personal Effectiveness Training
· Goal-setting workshops incorporating neuroscience-based techniques.
Educational Programs for Schools and Colleges
· Career Counseling
What motivated you to venture into entrepreneurship, and how did you identify the need for intellectual growth and career mentoring?
Simon’s entrepreneurial journey was driven by a deep convergence of emotional, intellectual, psychological, and spiritual realizations drawn from his personal and professional experiences:
Emotionally, he experienced profound hardships, from personal loss to periods of despair and isolation. These moments of struggle gave him an intimate understanding of emotional pain and resilience. His healing journey ignited a passion to help others overcome similar obstacles and achieve mental well-being.
Intellectually, his diverse career experiences—from banking to corporate leadership, counseling, and training—highlighted the gaps in emotional intelligence and professional growth in various industries. He realized that individuals often struggle not due to a lack of skills but due to a lack of self-awareness, motivation, and proper guidance.
Psychologically, his studies in human behavior, neuroscience, and emotional intelligence revealed the importance of reprogramming mindsets for success. Through extensive research, he understood that true transformation begins within and that structured coaching and training could unlock an individual’s full potential.
Spiritually, his encounter with suffering, redemption, and healing reinforced his belief in a higher purpose. His deepening faith and exploration of spirituality helped him see life’s setbacks as stepping stones to a greater calling. He felt divinely guided to empower others, not just professionally but holistically—mind, body, and soul.
By merging these perspectives, Simon Anandhraj founded Freewill Human Empowerment, with a mission to nurture individuals into enlightened and impactful leaders, transcending personal and professional boundaries. His journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of self-awareness, perseverance, and purpose-driven action.
Simon’s journey into entrepreneurship was driven by his deep passion for human development, emotional intelligence, and performance enhancement. His early experiences in sales, corporate training, and leadership roles exposed him to the challenges employees and students face in career clarity, emotional resilience, and workplace stress management.
Key Motivations Behind Simon’s Entrepreneurial Journey:
· Firsthand Corporate Challenges: While working in corporate environments like Dell and various training roles, Simon observed a gap in soft skills development, emotional intelligence, and stress management. He realized that technical skills alone were insufficient for long-term professional success.
Could you walk us through your professional journey, highlighting key milestones and achievements that have shaped your career?
Corporate Leader, Dell
In my tenure at Dell, I played a crucial role as a mentor and trainer, successfully building and stabilizing 10 different teams in Chennai and Coimbatore. I provided subject-matter training that balanced intellectual and emotional aspects, ensuring seamless project execution and operational efficiency.
Motivational Speaker - Passionate about inspiring and empowering youth, I have addressed thousands of individuals across South India. My motivational talks focus on discovering inner strength, aligning personal ambitions with spiritual and social responsibility, and fostering self-development for the greater good of society. Through engaging and thought-provoking sessions, I help individuals unlock their potential and drive positive change in their lives and communities.
CEO / Master Corporate Trainer - With over a decade of experience as a corporate trainer, I have been instrumental in shaping employees across diverse industries, including Manufacturing, Service, IT, ITES, BPO, KPO, LPO, and Strategy Building sectors. My training methodology focuses on strengthening employees both emotionally and intellectually. The primary objective is to empower individuals, thereby enhancing organizational productivity and fostering a stress-free workplace. Through behavioral and soft skills training, I help businesses cultivate emotionally resilient and intellectually capable teams, ensuring sustainable success.
Organisational and Behavioural Coaching - Specializing in workplace dynamics and employee performance, I design and deliver targeted training programs to enhance communication, emotional intelligence, teamwork, and leadership. My approach ensures alignment between employee behavior and organizational goals, fostering a cohesive and productive work environment. Additionally, I provide expertise in change management, conflict resolution, and stress management, helping businesses build adaptability and resilience in an evolving corporate landscape.
Sales and Marketing Expert - With a strong background in sales, I bring industry-ready, up-to-date programs that integrate both emotional and technological aspects of sales and marketing. Over the past two decades, I have conducted over 1,000 programs, seminars, and workshops across industries such as Manufacturing, Banking, and IT, catering to both online and offline audiences. My sessions equip sales professionals with cutting-edge techniques and strategies to excel in competitive markets.
What are your areas of expertise, and how have these skills contributed to your success?
Emotional Intelligence Expert - Emotional intelligence is the cornerstone of personal and professional growth. My training programs, rooted in psycho-spiritual methodologies, focus on self-awareness, emotional balance, and self-realization. Leveraging expertise in psychology, spirituality, and philosophy, I help individuals navigate emotional challenges, enhancing their resilience and overall well-being. My interactive and engaging approach ensures deep learning and lasting impact.
Environmental Coach - As an advocate for environmental awareness and sustainability, I offer specialized training for corporates, colleges, and universities. My programs address pressing global challenges such as climate change and environmental protection, fostering a sense of responsibility and proactive action among participants. By introducing creative methodologies to appreciate and protect nature, I aim to cultivate a generation that values and safeguards the environment.
Life Skills and Educationalist - Trained under eminent psychiatrist, counsellor, and Master trainers, I honed my expertise in psychological and philosophical concepts of human empowerment and leadership. As a graduate of Landmark International, I have guided thousands of youngsters, instilling leadership qualities and life skills essential for success. My experience in human resource development has further strengthened my ability to nurture future leaders.
· Corporate Training & Leadership Development – Extensive experience in training professionals across industries, focusing on behavioral and soft skills, organizational dynamics, and employee performance enhancement.
Could you share some of the most impactful projects and training programs your venture has successfully executed?
Conducting an overnight session on emotional intelligence, stress management, and work-life balance for a group of dedicated yet exhausted employees was an incredibly enriching experience. The challenge was not just to engage them but to sustain their energy and enthusiasm throughout the session. Despite their fatigue from long working hours, the participants remained highly attentive and actively involved, demonstrating the deep impact and relevance of the session. Their willingness to engage, reflect, and participate in the activities reaffirmed the importance of addressing mental well-being and emotional resilience in professional settings.
One of the most effective activities of the session was the A-to-Z exercise, designed to stimulate their cognitive engagement while fostering teamwork and morale. This simple yet thought-provoking activity enabled employees to channel their focus, collaborate, and find creative solutions, even during late-night hours. The most surprising and rewarding moment was when the employees returned punctually after the 2 AM break, despite their exhaustion. This act of commitment was a clear indication of the value they found in the session, and it reinforced the power of meaningful conversations in personal and professional development.
Beyond structured activities, the session organically evolved into profound discussions on psychology, spirituality, relationships, and life philosophy. Employees opened up about their aspirations, challenges, and the universal pursuit of happiness, peace, and simplicity. This collective introspection created a deeply enriching atmosphere where learning was a two-way street—not only were the participants gaining insights, but as a facilitator, I also learned from their perspectives and experiences. It was a powerful reminder that coaching is as much about guiding as it is about listening and understanding.
The impact of this session extended beyond the night. Recognizing the importance of emotional intelligence and stress management in their workforce, the company formalized our engagement by signing an MOU (Memorandum of Understanding), marking the beginning of a continued collaboration. This was a significant milestone, affirming that organizations are increasingly prioritizing employee well-being as a core element of productivity and workplace satisfaction.
Following this, I conducted another impactful program with TVS as part of their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative. This program focused on career counseling and family counseling for the children of TVS employees. It was a two-day intensive program designed to equip students with clarity and direction regarding their future careers.
The program commenced with a comprehensive psychometric analysis for all participating students. This analysis assessed their personality traits, professional inclinations, emotional intelligence (EQ), intellectual intelligence (IQ), and educational attitudes. The insights derived from this assessment played a crucial role in helping students recognize their strengths and areas for improvement. More importantly, it enabled them to understand their passions, potential career paths, and the alignment between their personal attributes and professional aspirations.
A total of 93 families participated in this initiative, which underscored the value of structured career counseling at an early stage. The findings from the psychometric analysis paved the way for focused group counseling sessions, where students were guided on various aspects of career planning, personal development, and decision-making. By addressing their uncertainties and providing clarity, these sessions helped students make informed choices about their future.
The second day of the program transitioned into interactive workshops on career choices and goal-setting. Students from ninth to twelfth grade engaged in these workshops, discussing their ambitions, aspirations, and the steps required to achieve them. The depth of their perspectives on career, passion, and profession was truly remarkable, reflecting their eagerness to explore new opportunities and carve unique paths for themselves.
To provide students with a broader perspective on available career opportunities, we brought in a diverse panel of industry experts. These professionals came from fields such as education, the leather industry, environmental awareness, and technology. Each expert shared their journey, insights, and practical knowledge, offering students firsthand exposure to various niche professions in India. The engagement between students and these professionals fostered a sense of curiosity and ambition, helping them understand the evolving job market and the importance of aligning their skills with industry demands.
As a team of trainers, counselors, and coaches, we stayed with the students throughout the two-day program, ensuring that each participant received personalized guidance and clarity. The impact of this initiative was evident in the enthusiasm and proactive approach students displayed toward their career planning. By the end of the program, they had a clearer vision of their next steps, equipped with the tools and knowledge to navigate their future successfully.
Both these programs—the overnight emotional intelligence session for employees and the career counseling initiative for students—highlight the transformative power of structured coaching and counseling. They reinforced the importance of emotional well-being, career clarity, and informed decision-making in both professional and personal spheres. These experiences have further strengthened my commitment to helping individuals unlock their potential and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life.
What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs who wish to create an impact through training and mentoring initiatives?
Drawing from his extensive journey in corporate training, career mentoring, and emotional intelligence coaching, Simon offers valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs who wish to create a meaningful impact through training and mentoring initiatives.
1. Start with a Strong Purpose - Entrepreneurship in training and mentoring should be mission-driven, not just profit-driven. Identify the real problems your audience faces and ensure your programs are designed to solve those challenges effectively.
“Focus on transformation, not just information. Your goal is to empower people to think, act, and grow beyond their limitations.”
2. Build Deep Expertise Before You Teach - Simon emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and mastery before stepping into training. His journey included years of hands-on experience in corporate leadership, sales, behavioral training, and emotional intelligence before launching his own venture.
“Master the craft first. When you teach from deep experience, people trust you and value your insights.”
3. Leverage Emotional Intelligence in Your Approach - Successful trainers and mentors go beyond teaching technical skills—they help individuals develop resilience, emotional intelligence, and adaptability.
“Training is not just about delivering content; it’s about connecting with people, understanding their struggles, and guiding them toward real growth.”
4. Adapt to Industry Needs and Future Trends - The world is evolving rapidly, and training programs must evolve too. Simon’s success comes from staying ahead of industry trends and integrating technology, psychology, and human behavior insights into his training models.
“Your training should not only solve today’s problems but also prepare people for the future.”
5. Design Experiential & Activity-Based Learning - Simon’s training stands out because it is interactive, engaging, and real-world applicable. Aspiring trainers should focus on experiential learning rather than passive lectures.
“People remember what they experience, not what they hear. Make your training hands-on, thought-provoking, and impactful.”
6. Embrace Entrepreneurship with Patience & Consistency - Building a sustainable training business takes time. There will be setbacks, but consistency and adaptability are key. Simon advises aspiring entrepreneurs to start small, test their programs, and refine them based on feedback.
“Success in training and mentoring is a marathon, not a sprint. Stay committed to your vision, keep evolving, and never stop learning.”
7. Balance Passion with Business Strategy - While passion drives impact, a strong business model ensures sustainability. Simon advises trainers to understand marketing, sales, branding, and audience engagement to build a successful venture.
“Great training programs alone won’t grow your business—learn how to reach the right audience and create value for them consistently.”
Final Thought: Create a Legacy of Impact
Simon believes that training and mentoring are not just professions but powerful tools for shaping lives. His advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is to leave a lasting impact by building communities, creating scalable models, and continuously evolving as a mentor.
“Your true success is measured by the lives you impact, the mindsets you change, and the leaders you create.”
A Heartfelt Journey of Gratitude
Gratitude is the silent force that fuels our lives, shaping our journeys with love, wisdom, and support. As I reflect on my path, I am overwhelmed with appreciation for those who have stood by me, guided me, and enriched my existence in countless ways.
Divine Gratitude
First and foremost, my deepest gratitude is to Jesus Christ, whose grace and guidance have been my constant source of strength. His divine presence has given me the faith to navigate life’s challenges with resilience and hope.
Family – My Pillars of Strength
The unwavering love and support of my family have been the cornerstone of my journey. My parents, who nurtured me with values and wisdom, have played an irreplaceable role in shaping the person I am today. My sister, Susan, though no longer with us, remains an eternal part of my heart, her memories a source of inspiration. My brother, Arun Raj, has been a steadfast companion, sharing in my joys and trials alike.
My wife, Anuradha, is the anchor of my life, walking beside me with unwavering faith and love. Our sons, Joshua and Michael, are the very essence of my joy, filling my days with purpose and meaning. I extend my gratitude to my parents-in-law for their kindness and the warmth with which they have embraced me. My brother-in-law Anandhan and his wife, Bhuvaneshwari, have also been an integral part of my journey, bringing warmth and joy into our family.
Cherished Friendships
Friendships that have lasted decades are a rare treasure. Nelson, Frank, and Francis have been my brothers in spirit, standing by me through thick and thin. Suja, Shirley, and Sangeetha have been invaluable companions, offering their wisdom, kindness, and unwavering support for over 30 years. To all my dear friends from Railway School and ICF School, your presence has been a gift, shaping my life with wonderful memories and shared experiences.
Though my time with my friends in Akira and SS Avenue was brief—just five years—it was deeply impactful. These friendships taught me invaluable lessons about life, both internally and externally. Ramesh Sir and Bina Mam have been sources of wisdom and encouragement, while Chandraprakash and Swathi have shown unwavering kindness. Mr. Yuvaraj’s timely support in moments of crisis will never be forgotten.
Mr. Prem Kumar, Mr. and Mrs. Vijayakumar, Mr. Alistor, and Mr. Naveen have added immense joy and camaraderie to my life, their presence a constant reminder of the beauty of friendship. Each of these connections, whether spanning decades or just a few years, has left an indelible mark on my heart, reminding me that true friendships are not measured in time but in depth and sincerity.
Spiritual Mentors and Guides
My spiritual journey has been profoundly enriched by incredible mentors. Fr. Lawrence, Director of Satya Nilayam, has been a guiding light, imparting wisdom and spiritual depth. The late Mr. Roy Anand and Arvind Joseph, my prayer group leader, have been instrumental in strengthening my faith. My heartfelt gratitude extends to my CYIC prayer group friends, whose prayers and fellowship have sustained me for nearly two decades.
Pastors Victor and Shilpy, as well as Pastor Christo Immanuel and Pastor Sarah Immanuel, have blessed me with profound spiritual knowledge, strength, and wisdom, shaping my faith over the last five years. Pastor Gabriel Thomas Raj is a beacon of faith, whose raw teachings on truth and spirituality have deeply impacted my understanding of faith and devotion.
Professional Gratitude
In my professional journey, I owe much to the late Mr. Roy Anand, a remarkable evangelist and corporate coach, whose mentorship continues to inspire me. Mr. Yogananand, VP and Site Head of AHS, has shown immense trust in me, opening doors to valuable opportunities.
Mr. Balaraju and Mr. Prashanth from Bodh Bridge have been a source of great support in my journey with schools and colleges by providing knowledge, tools, and techniques that have enhanced my work.
Mr. Sanjay Bahri -NIIT, Mr. Guru Moorthy Maxwell, Ms. Shivani Iskill box, Mr. Gopal LCIPL, and Mr. Akbar Ansari ShanZ have also played a significant role in my professional growth by creating and offering me opportunities across various organizations with unwavering support. Their belief in me has been instrumental in my career progression, and I deeply appreciate their encouragement and trust.
I extend my appreciation to my fellow Partners, trainers and colleagues, including Mr. Paul, Mr. Suresh Rajan, Mr. Aarthik, Ms. Sowmya, Mr. Anand (Trainer), Mr. Jubilee Prince (Coach), and Ms. Jeevitha (Psychologist), for walking alongside me in this incredible journey of training and development.
A Final Note of Thanks
Lastly, my heartfelt gratitude goes out to all the corporate firms, government organizations, educational institutions, and business owners who have entrusted me with opportunities to contribute and grow. To every student and participant in my programs, your feedback and encouragement have been instrumental in shaping my journey, inspiring me to keep striving for excellence.
As I continue on this path, I am deeply humbled and grateful for every person who has played a role in my life. This journey is not mine alone—it is a shared tapestry of love, faith, and purpose, woven together by the presence of each of you. Thank you for being part of my story.
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