Sreeja Balakrishnan is the CEO and Principal at Soundpark Academy. Her educational background includes a Postgraduate Diploma in Business Management (PGDBM). This educational pursuit has helped shape her strategic mindset and ability to drive success in academic settings. With an impressive work history, Sreeja has held pivotal roles in various organizations. As the Director of Administration at Adspark, a division of Amma Communications Pvt. Ltd., she demonstrated her prowess in overseeing administrative operations. Her dedication to the field of education is evident through her tenure as the Central Manager at the prestigious 'Yuva Keralam' project of SN Trust, Periya.

Since assuming the role of CEO and Principal at Soundpark Academy, Sreeja has continued to showcase her exceptional leadership skills and passion for providing top-quality education. Her visionary approach, coupled with her commitment to excellence, has contributed to the academy's growth and reputation as a leading institution for sound engineering education in Kochi. Under her guidance, Soundpark Academy continues to thrive, preparing aspiring sound engineers to excel in their careers and make valuable contributions to the industry.

Sound Park Academy

How would you describe your leadership style?

As the principal of Soundpark Academy, I would describe my leadership style as collaborative and empowering. I believe in fostering a strong sense of trust and confidence within our team, knowing that each member possesses unique skills and talents that contribute to the success of our academy. I encourage open communication and actively listen to the ideas and perspectives of our team members, valuing their input and insights. 

By empowering our team, I create an environment where everyone feels supported and motivated to give their best. Together, we work towards our common goal of providing quality education and ensuring the best outcomes for our students. 

What do you see as the Soundpark Academy’s greatest strengths and how can it be enhanced?

Soundpark Academy has several great strengths that set it apart in the field of sound engineering in Kerala. Firstly, the academy boasts the best facilities, providing students with a conducive learning environment equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and resources. Soundpark Academy also prides itself on offering high-quality classes and coaching. The academy's instructors are experienced professionals who are well-versed in sound engineering techniques and industry trends. We also have a strong track record of delivering 100% placement, which speaks to our exceptional networking and industry connections.

To further enhance these strengths, Soundpark Academy can focus on marketing and leveraging the demand for sound engineering professionals in the city. By promoting the fact that inquiries for job placements are already coming in before the course’s completion, the academy can emphasize the employability of its students. We can continue to nurture and expand its industry connections. 

Being the principal of Soundpark Academy, how do you strategize about the key programs and plans for the marketing and administration of your school?

As the principal of Soundpark Academy, I strategize key programs and plans for the marketing and administration of the school by focusing on several key aspects. I develop a comprehensive marketing strategy that highlights the unique strengths and offerings of the institute. This includes showcasing our state-of-the-art facilities, experienced faculty, successful student outcomes, and industry connections. I prioritize building and nurturing relationships with professionals, companies, and industry organizations related to sound engineering. 

I understand the importance of providing comprehensive support to our students through career counselling, guidance, and mentorship to help them make informed decisions about their education and future career paths. I believe in continuously evaluating and enhancing our programs and offerings. 

The education systems in India and other foreign countries are structured very differently. In your experience, what can an inbound student gain from studying here at Soundpark Academy?

Studying at Soundpark Academy provides inbound students with unique opportunities and benefits. Our curriculum is designed to equip students with the necessary skills and expertise required in the field of sound engineering. One of the key advantages of studying at Soundpark Academy is our emphasis on practical learning. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, allowing them to engage in hands-on experiences that enhance their technical skills. 

Additionally, our commitment to following the latest syllabus ensures that students stay up-to-date with advancements and emerging technologies in the industry. The focus on skill development at Soundpark Academy sets us apart. Our aim is not just to impart theoretical knowledge but to cultivate practical skills that are highly valued in the industry. By actively engaging in skill-building activities, students develop the expertise necessary to excel in their careers and stand out among their peers.

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How does the curriculum of Soundpark Academy ensure the best practice of industry?

The curriculum at Soundpark Academy is specifically designed to ensure the best practices of the sound engineering industry, with a particular focus on the film field. We recognize the importance of staying up-to-date with the latest industry trends and advancements. To achieve this, our curriculum covers a wide range of topics and skills that are relevant to the current industry practices. This ensures that students are well-prepared to meet the demands of the industry upon graduation.

Soundpark Academy takes pride in offering specialized courses to cater to specific areas of the industry. One such example is our Voice Actor course, which is the first of its kind in Kerala. By focusing on the film field and incorporating the latest industry practices into our curriculum, we ensure that our students receive relevant and practical education.

Any insights into how your academy could be more welcoming to students of different economic backgrounds?

Soundpark Academy is committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for students from different economic backgrounds. We understand that financial constraints should not be a barrier to accessing quality education and pursuing one's passion for sound engineering or related fields. To ensure greater accessibility, we have sought affiliation with organizations such as NSDC (National Skill Development Corporation). This affiliation allows us to provide students with more flexible payment options. Instead of requiring upfront fees, students can avail of education loans facilitated by the affiliated banks. 

Furthermore, we actively work towards creating scholarship programs and financial assistance initiatives. These programs aim to support students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, providing them with opportunities to access our courses at reduced or waived fees. 

What do you think should be the Soundpark Academy’s top priority over the next 10 years?

Soundpark Academy's top priority over the next 10 years should be the development and transformation of the campus into a thriving media city. By leveraging the existing infrastructure and resources, such as the sanctioned radio stations, the academy can create a dynamic ecosystem that not only provides quality education but also opens up diverse career opportunities for its students.

Expanding on the concept of a media city, Soundpark Academy can foster collaborations and partnerships with media organizations, production houses, content creators, and industry professionals. To achieve this vision, the academy can focus on enhancing its facilities and resources to accommodate various media-related disciplines such as radio, television, film production, multimedia, and digital content creation. The academy can also develop strategic partnerships with industry stakeholders to offer internship programs, collaborative projects, and mentorship opportunities. 

Moreover, the academy can organize events, workshops, and seminars that bring together media professionals, students, and enthusiasts. This would foster a culture of continuous learning, knowledge sharing, and innovation within the media city. We can establish incubation and entrepreneurship programs to encourage students to pursue their own media ventures

When you first came to Soundpark Academy, what was your vision for the academy?

When I first came to Soundpark Academy, my vision was to establish a strong and influential institution that would make a positive impact in the field of sound engineering education. Within the first year, my priority was to increase the academy's visibility and attract a larger student base. I aimed to implement effective marketing strategies, build strong industry connections, and enhance the academy's reputation. 

Having successfully accomplished these initial goals, my vision for the academy expanded further. Over the next five years, I envisioned transforming Soundpark Academy into a franchise institution. By franchising the academy, I aimed to expand its reach, offer opportunities to more students across the country. To realize this vision, I would prioritize developing a robust franchising framework, implementing standardized processes and quality control measures, and building a strong network of franchisees who shared the same passion for sound engineering education. By establishing Soundpark Academy as a franchise institution, we would be able to extend our impact and empower more aspiring sound engineers to pursue their dreams.

What do you see as Soundpark Academy’s greatest strength to success?

Soundpark Academy's greatest strength to success lies in its strong and experienced management, led by Mr. Balakrishnan Periya. With over 20 years of experience in the media field, Mr. Periya brings a wealth of knowledge, expertise, and valuable connections to the academy. His strategic vision and understanding of the industry help shape the academy's direction and ensure its relevance and competitiveness. With his deep knowledge and insights, he can anticipate industry needs, adapt the curriculum accordingly, and equip students with the skills and knowledge required to excel in the field.

The combination of strong leadership, industry experience, and influential connections under Mr. Periya's guidance is a key factor in Soundpark Academy's success. It fosters a dynamic and supportive environment where students receive the best possible education, industry exposure, and career opportunities. The academy's greatest strength lies in leveraging this management expertise to provide a holistic and industry-relevant learning experience for its students.

Any suggestions you would like to give to the current youth and the aspiring students?

Remember that the world is full of possibilities, and despite the challenges and uncertainties, there are countless opportunities waiting for you. Embrace a mindset of optimism and resilience as you navigate through different stages of life. Embrace the process of learning and see education as a valuable tool to gain insight and vision for your personal and professional growth. Take the time to discover your passions and interests, and pursue them wholeheartedly. 

Embrace a lifelong learning mindset, as learning doesn't end with formal education but continues throughout your life. Challenge yourself and step out of your comfort zone. Embrace opportunities for personal and professional growth, even if they seem daunting at first. Remember that success is not solely defined by grades or degrees. It is a holistic concept that encompasses personal fulfilment, meaningful relationships, and positively impacting society. Prioritize your well-being and self-care. Education and career pursuits can be demanding, but it is essential to maintain a healthy balance between academics, personal life, and self-care.