It seems a little sterile to say that Akhtar is a product of his time, but in this case it is the realest testament to his productivity. Founder and Creator of social media agency ‘Instabear’, and one of a handful of semi-finalists on reality show ‘The Apprentice’ for 2014, he crests the latest waves of the digital revolution where the rest of us are, let’s face it, just paddling. His company’s innovative services include the use of ‘Social Media screens’ and instant photo-booth style print-outs at launch events ‘to blur the gap between social media and physical experiences’, and liven up the atmosphere by, well, living it up. Colourful and fresh, 24 year-old Akhtar has not just earned credibility in the business world, but in the adoring eyes of the public:
Tell us about your experience on ‘The Apprentice’?
It was amazing. Obviously it was a hard and grilling process, especially for me as one of the youngest on the show, but it was great working with different people, and I was proud to have represented the Asian community. This is where the show has helped me too: I’ve appreciated being able to be a role model for Asians, who are very entrepreneurial-minded community. I’m glad I can give advice and encouragement about launching a business from scratch.
You have also been on TV Show Desi Rascals. What’s been the most enjoyable part?
Well, I loved all of it. It showed our lives in a way that was natural, and it was truly lovely to meet everyone- I really get on with Adam in real life. It was different from ‘The Apprentice’, where obviously it was a lot more stressful.
What are your current projects?
I’ve got a new show airing on Sky 1, and I will be a panellist on Celebrity Big Brother’s Little Brother on Channel 5.
How do you find combining a media career with entrepreneurship?
Sometimes I get faced with questions such as ‘what do you really want to do?’, but a media career offshoots from my interest in business. It’s good to make appearances, knowing that you are inspiring people. My company always comes first, but an equally important part of Instabear is that you know how to reach people in a fun and interesting way.
Tell us a bit more about Instabear?
Having started it up during my time at Exeter University, it is my biggest achievement. We are now doing so much: managing live Twitter feeds, social media campaigns as well as boosting the visibility of different events, among other things.
Do you get a lot of attention from our Silicon Valley?
(Laughs) Well I’ve had a lot more financial backing from experienced people so it’s good to have that guidance boosting my natural energy.
What do you feel is your niche in the world of technology?
Instabear is very creative and embraces the thinking that nothing is impossible as long as there is a platform. We grew up with smartphones and social media so we have more of a connection with the contemporary demand. In that sense we really hit the ground running after university.
Were you always drawn to new media and business as a child?
Yes, I loved it! I had this VTech laptop where you could code on it, and I always jumped on anything electronic. I actually got one of the top 5 IT GCSE results in the country so it’s something that comes naturally to me. Entrepreneurship too actually- I would be out there selling conkers…
You need guts to survive The Apprentice. What attitude kept you going in the more heated moments?
(laughs)I thought of it like the Hunger Games where I just wanted to get to the end. I wanted to prove myself to my family and on behalf of my university; I wanted to give something back. In terms of staying out of the arguments and drama, my tactic was just to be friendly and not be too hard on myself. People may have underestimated me but I showed my abilities in action.
What is the most interesting area of technological development between the 2000s and now?
The immediacy of social media: before you had to run a TV or print campaign, but nowadays you can just create a video which can go viral in 24 hours. You may be a small voice but you can reach millions of people.
Have you ever felt any racial barriers in the industry?
The wider community have been really embracing. Any criticism has actually come from within the Pakistani community, in terms of being the ‘right’ type. I drink occasionally and am only half-Pakistani so that it is a little frustrating. I think it is important to be considered as an individual.
What do you do to unwind?
Going for late night walks in London- places that might be busy during the day, but are quieter at night. That’s quite relaxing.
Finally, what is your advice to other aspiring entrepreneurs?
Follow your passion and keep going- you ever know what’s around the corner. I never thought a year ago that I would be on ‘The Apprentice’, or that my business was going to take off. Keep working as hard as you can and take every day as it comes.
https://twitter.com/sollyakhtar
