Akash Mehta is British entrepreneur and influencer. Akash graduated from Imperial College London in Engineering and previously worked at Burberry, Estée Lauder Companies and Dior. Currently, Akash is the co-founder of Fable and Mane, an Ayurvedic inspired hair wellness brand, and his own conscious digital agency, Akash Agency. Recently, Akash was placed on Forbes’ ’30 under 30’ list in Media & Marketing and has been sharing his marketing expertise at some of the largest conferences and universities around the world from TEDx to his own digital online course called 'Digital with Akash.' He is also a Global Guardian for UNICEF, co-founder of The Fable Fund and LVMH board member for Patou.
1. Which place, or city or country do you most feel at home in?
Being born and raised in London, I do think that London is truly the place I feel most at home. I was fortunate to spend three years in Paris, which has become my second home. However, now being back in London I do feel this is my home for the foreseeable future.
2. What are your proudest achievements?
I’d probably say it’s between two main achievements. One would be making it into the Forbes 30 under 30 list in 2019, which had always been a dream of mind. The second one would be to have launched Fable & Mane with my sister.
3. What inspires you?
My father is my inspiration. Not only his success in business but more so his work ethic and, just in general, the person he is. He has always shone humility and generosity. And I hope I can be like him one day.
4. What has been biggest obstacle in your career?
The biggest obstacle has been my own doubts and impatience. I have always wanted to do a lot at the same time. And while at times I have achieved it, there were many times where I over did it and burnt out. A successful career comes from a healthy balanced mind.
5. Who has been the biggest influence on your career to date?
My prior CEO, Claude Martinez, and General Manager, Veronique Courtois, at Dior. They have been the most inspiring figureheads in my career and not only have taught me so much about working and growing in a company, but also as a person. I wouldn’t be where I am today without them.
6. What is the best aspect about your current role?
Working for yourself and being your own boss is the most gratifying feeling. Having worked in corporate, I have a lot more autonomy in my decision making – I make decisions much quicker and therefore results come quicker too. It’s an exciting feeling and it’s just the beginning.
7. And the worst?
Not having the safety blanket that’s associated with corporate jobs. For example, investing your own money and being the sole decision maker at times. There are days when it can weigh heavily on you, but you have to keep going forward.
8. What are your long-term goals?
I would love to have my own beauty conglomerate, focusing on wellness. But in general, just to build beauty brands that make a difference and live beyond me. I also would love to have my own NGO that really has a global impact in supporting wildlife conservation.
9. If you were Prime Minister, what one aspect would you change?
I would love to increase efforts in supporting the environment and sustainability sector. One way I envision this is supporting start-ups and small businesses making headway in this field but have quite high barriers to entry currently.
10. If you were marooned on a desert island, which historical figure would you like to spend your time with and why?
I would say his Holiness the Dalai Lama as I have hundreds of life questions to ask and so much to learn from him. The idea of meditation on a beach sounds like a dream!
