Ashish Thakkar is a globally recognized entrepreneur and business leader who started his first company at the young age of 15. Today, his Mara Group is a leading business with operations in over a dozen countries. He is passionate about the emerging markets and is dedicated to helping the African people through his entrepreneurial initiatives.
A leader in Africa’s business community, Ashish Thakkar is widely known for his immense success. Although his achievements are vast, his journey began with an early passion for technology and an impressive drive.
Early Life and Beginnings
Born in Uganda in 1982, Ashish Thakkar was exposed to the burgeoning technology sector during his childhood. He was captivated by the potential of the sector and the potential of a global reach. Inspired to establish his own company, he founded Mara Group in 1996 at just 15 years old.
Mara Group: An International Business Success
Mara Group has become one of the most renowned companies in the world, with over a dozen subsidiaries placed in various countries. With over 6200 employees, the Mara Group is a conglomerate that operates in the technology, financial services, media and telecommunication, hospitality and real estate sectors.
From its humble beginnings as a computer backup system provider, Mara Group has grown exponentially throughout the years and has established itself as a leader in the technology and finance spheres of business.
What’s Truly Powerful About Ashish Thakkar
The significance of Ashish Thakkar’s story is not just the success of the business. It is his unwavering commitment to the African people, his passion for social good, and his dedication to emerging markets. Thakkar is committed to a better future for Africa, and his initiatives are aimed at increasing Africa’s economic growth and development.
Thakkar has implemented various initiatives for the betterment of the African population. This includes working with farmers to help them improve their agricultural productivity, launching the African Leadership Academy and creating the Lion’s Den Africa accelerator program. Through these initiatives, Thakkar hopes to make a lasting difference in Africa’s economy and empower the local population.
Team Building, Leadership and Business Advice
Thakkar has been an advocate of team building and cultivating a culture of inspiration and motivation within organizational structures. He emphasizes on the power of teamwork, with Mara being built on the philosophy of ‘’Team Work Makes Dreams Work’’.
Apart from providing businessman advice such as pursuing multiple markets, diversifying and moving with technology, he also stresses on the importance of having a great team in order to be successful.
Thakkar believes in recognizing the strengths of each employee and using them to build a stronger culture. Furthermore, he often emphasizes that personal relationships and loyalty are a key factor to building a successful business.
Mara Outreach Foundation
The Mara Outreach Foundation was established in 2014 with the mission to empower sustainable entrepreneurial activities in Africa. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, the program provides mentorship, training, and platform for local entrepreneurs The program has now been extended to four countries and is looking to expand further.
The foundation works with local communities and empowers their development by providing them with easy access to financial services and tools to drive growth. Additionally, the foundation has pledged to invest in innovative projects geared towards boosting the economy.
The Accomplishments of Ashish Thakkar
Ashish Thakkar has achieved many remarkable accomplishments throughout his career as an entrepreneur and philanthropist. To date, he holds several prestigious accolades such as the World Economic Forum’s Young Global Leader and the African Leadership Network Innovator of the Year Award.
In 2017, he was also appointed as an Honorary Ambassador to the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC). His work in several African countries has also been recognized by various international organizations, including the United Nations (UN).
When it comes to self-made success stories, Ashish Thakkar is one of the most impressive. He has achieved phenomenal success with his Mara Group, and despite his immense success, has also dedicated his life to serving the African people. His initiatives, such as the Mara Outreach Foundation, have allowed African entrepreneurs to reach their full potential, and he is truly an extraordinary leader and visionary.
