Bhumika Chauhan
In the high-tech world of LED displays, credibility often comes from degrees, certifications, and technical jargon. But Mohammed Fazil defied that convention. Coming from an arts background, with no formal training in engineering, he founded GLS Displays in 2015 and went on to redefine India’s LED industry with creativity, resilience, and vision.
Fazil’s biggest challenge at the start was trust. How could a non-engineer succeed in such a technical space? Clients were skeptical, suppliers cautious, and resources scarce. Yet, Fazil leaned on qualities no degree can provide—curiosity, persistence, and the ability to simplify. He immersed himself in self-learning, experimented relentlessly, and communicated honestly with clients. Over time, his persistence turned skepticism into loyalty.
GLS quickly grew by focusing on what mattered: making LED displays usable for all. While others marketed complex systems to high-end brands, GLS simplified technology for small businesses and regional markets. Its solutions bridged the gap between innovation and practicality. Fazil understood that his clients didn’t want to “learn technology”; they wanted results. And GLS delivered exactly that.
This practical, user-friendly approach created ripples of impact. By offering affordable, customized solutions, GLS brought digital transformation to tier-2 and tier-3 cities. Shops that once relied on painted boards now attract customers with vibrant LED screens. Event organizers, no longer limited by cost, could create world-class setups in small towns. Fazil’s mission of inclusion began to reshape India’s branding and communication landscape.
But perhaps the most remarkable aspect of Fazil’s journey is how he turned personal setbacks into strengths. Financial struggles, technical breakdowns, and early failures tested his resilience. Yet, each obstacle reinforced his belief that entrepreneurship is less about celebrating success and more about managing failure.
By 2025, GLS Displays was a leader in the LED space, serving top Indian brands and winning national recognition like the India Business Award. But Fazil insists the journey has just begun. The future lies in integrating IoT, AI, and interactivity into digital displays. From selfie booths to AI-driven content, GLS is preparing to stay ahead of the curve while keeping its solutions simple and accessible.
Professionally, Fazil credits Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam as his inspiration, admiring his humility and vision. Like his idol, Fazil turned his limitations into strengths, proving that passion and persistence can outshine credentials. His advice to aspiring entrepreneurs echoes his journey: start small, embrace rejection, and let consistency define your success.
Breaking barriers is not just a tagline for Fazil—it is his lived reality. He redefined not just how LED displays are sold, but who they are sold to. By empowering small towns and small businesses, he redefined an industry once thought exclusive, and in doing so, built a legacy of inclusivity and innovation.
