Biography of Akanksha Hazari: Founder & CEO at LoveLocal- Entrepreneur
Journey of Akanksha Hazari:
Early Life and Global Moves
Akanksha Hazari’s journey began in Pune, where she was born.
Her family’s decision to move to Hong Kong marked the start of a series of
global relocations that would shape her future. At just 16, Akanksha moved to
Princeton University in the US for her undergraduate studies. This early
exposure to diverse cultures and educational systems laid a foundation for her
future endeavors.
Washington DC: A Phase of Leadership and Growth
After Princeton, Akanksha settled in Washington DC. It was
here that she founded a policy think tank, which rapidly expanded to over 200
staff members. This achievement demonstrated her capability in managing large
teams and addressing complex issues. During this time, she also joined Booz
& Co., where she specialized in the energy sector, further honing her
strategic and leadership skills.
A Return to India: Embracing New Challenges
Realizing her passion for contributing to India’s growth,
Akanksha decided to return to her roots. She joined TechnoServe, a consulting
firm, where she spent a year living in rural villages. This immersive
experience provided her with firsthand insights into how mobile technology
could revolutionize daily life in India, deepening her commitment to leveraging
technology for social impact.
Cambridge and Entrepreneurial Aspirations
To formalize her business acumen, Akanksha pursued an MBA at
the University of Cambridge. During her time there, she was actively involved
in various activities, including leading her team to victory in the Hult Prize competition.
This accolade recognized her innovative approach and solidified her intention
to build a business with a transformative impact.
LoveLocal: A Vision Comes to Life
In January 2020, just before the COVID-19 pandemic took
hold, Akanksha launched LoveLocal in Mumbai. This hyperlocal e-commerce
platform aimed to empower local retailers by digitizing their operations and
enhancing their ability to compete in a rapidly evolving market. The company’s
mission was to support small businesses in their digital transformation
journey.
Navigating the
Pandemic: A Test of Resilience
The pandemic proved to be a significant test for LoveLocal.
The surge in demand for online shopping during lockdowns presented both
challenges and opportunities. Akanksha and her team responded swiftly, adapting
their platform to handle increased traffic and helping local retailers continue
their operations despite the crisis.
Biography of Akanksha Hazari: Founder & CEO at LoveLocal- Entrepreneur /Startup/Age/Net worth/Success story of Akanksha Hazari/Life story of Akanksha
Growth and Impact: A Rapid Expansion
Despite the challenges, LoveLocal experienced remarkable growth.
Within a short period, the company expanded its reach to over 51,000 retailers
across 35 cities and 1,000 pin codes. This growth was driven by the heightened
need for home delivery services and the increasing adoption of digital payment
methods among consumers.
Supporting Retailers: Practical Solutions During the Crisis
LoveLocal’s impact was evident in how it supported local
retailers. During the pandemic’s second wave, the platform issued e-commerce
certificates to retailers, enabling them to fulfill online orders seamlessly.
This support helped many small businesses continue their operations and adapt
to the changing market dynamics.
Personal Milestones: Recognitions and Achievements
Akanksha’s leadership at LoveLocal earned her several
accolades. The company won the ORIGIN Innovation Award in 2020 for e-commerce, and
Akanksha was honored with various recognitions, including the Vital Voices
Global Leadership Economic Empowerment Award. These awards highlighted her
dedication and innovative approach in driving social change through technology.
Balancing Work and Well-being: A New Initiative
Understanding the importance of work-life balance, Akanksha
introduced a one-week paid leave for LoveLocal’s employees. This initiative
aimed to help team members recharge and maintain their well-being, reflecting
her commitment to creating a supportive work environment. The move was
well-received and contributed to a positive workplace culture.
TEAM Tech Entrepreneurs Association: A New Role
In March 2024, Akanksha joined the Governing Council of the
Tech Entrepreneurs Association of Mumbai (TEAM). In this role, she focuses on
enhancing Mumbai’s tech ecosystem, fostering local entrepreneurship, and
collaborating with government and corporate entities to advance tech-startup
infrastructure and skilling opportunities.
Looking Ahead: Future Aspirations
Akanksha’s journey from a young student in Pune to a
prominent entrepreneur in Mumbai is a testament to her vision and resilience.
As she continues to drive innovation through LoveLocal and her involvement with
TEAM, she remains dedicated to shaping India’s future as a global hub for
technology and entrepreneurship. Her story inspires many to pursue their dreams
and contribute to positive change in their communities.
Timeline for story
Early 2000s: Born in Pune, family moves to Hong Kong.
2012: Moves to Princeton University for undergraduate
studies.
2016: Settles in Washington DC, founds a policy think tank,
joins Booz & Co.
2018: Returns to India, joins TechnoServe, lives in rural
villages.
2019: Pursues MBA at the University of Cambridge, wins Hult
Prize competition.
January 2020: Launches LoveLocal in Mumbai.
2020-2021: Navigates LoveLocal through the COVID-19
pandemic.
2021: Expands LoveLocal to 51,000 retailers across 35
cities.
2021: LoveLocal issues e-commerce certificates to support
retailers during pandemic.
2022: Receives ORIGIN Innovation Award, Vital Voices Global
Leadership Economic Empowerment Award.
2023: Introduces one-week paid leave for LoveLocal
employees.
March 2024: Joins the Governing Council of TEAM Tech
Entrepreneurs Association of Mumbai.
