Biography of Arjit Soni: Founder & CEO of MYBYK- Entrepreneur
Journey of Arjit Soni:
Arjit Soni is making waves in the world of urban mobility as
the founder and CEO of MYBYK, a pioneering public bicycle-sharing service in
India. With a passion for cycling and a commitment to environmental
sustainability, Arjit’s journey is not just about business; it’s about
transforming the way people move around cities. His vision of making urban
transport more convenient and accessible has turned MYBYK into a prominent
player in the mobility sector.
Educational Background
Arijit’s academic journey laid a strong foundation for his
career. He became a Chartered Accountant after studying at the Institute of
Chartered Accountants of India. This rigorous training honed his analytical and
financial skills, which later proved invaluable in managing and growing his
business. Additionally, he completed his Bachelor of Commerce at the University
of Mumbai, further solidifying his knowledge in commerce and finance.
The Birth of MYBYK
Arijit launched MYBYK in December 2013, starting with a
mission to make cycling an integral part of urban transportation. The service
officially began in Ahmedabad in May 2014 with just 200 bicycles and four
stations, in partnership with the Amdavad Municipal Corporation. This initial
foray aimed to address the growing need for efficient and eco-friendly
transportation options in crowded urban areas.
Enhancing Urban Mobility
MYBYK is designed to tackle critical issues related to urban
mobility, particularly the "first and last mile" connectivity
problems that many public transport systems face. By offering a reliable and
hassle-free bicycle-sharing option, MYBYK helps users easily travel to and from
transit stations. This service not only makes commuting more convenient but
also encourages a healthier lifestyle and reduces carbon emissions.
Biography of Arjit Soni: Founder & CEO of MYBYK- Entrepreneur/age/net worth/investor/startup/MYBYK story/cycling into urban transport/Arjit Soni story
Expanding Horizons
Since its inception, MYBYK has expanded beyond Ahmedabad and
now operates in several major cities, including Mumbai, Indore, Kochi, Nagpur,
and Udaipur. Each new city presents unique challenges and opportunities, but
Arijit’s commitment to promoting cycling remains steadfast. The brand is also
preparing to introduce e-bike rentals, which will further diversify its
offerings and make it easier for people to choose sustainable transport.
Strategic Partnerships
Building relationships with local governments and businesses
has been key to MYBYK’s growth. For instance, in 2015, the Indian Space
Research Organization (ISRO) campus adopted the first 50 MYBYK bicycles,
demonstrating the service’s appeal in various sectors. Partnerships with
organizations like Adani and Reliance Refinery have also allowed MYBYK to
expand its reach and enhance its credibility as a sustainable transport
solution.
Major Milestones
Over the years, MYBYK has achieved several significant
milestones. By 2019, the company had rolled out over 1,500 bicycles in
Ahmedabad alone, solidifying its position as a leading provider of sustainable
transportation. Collaborating with the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation, MYBYK
was part of the Amdabike initiative, a government-backed bike-sharing policy
that integrated their services with the city's public transport system.
Making Cycling More Accessible
At the heart of MYBYK’s mission is the desire to make
cycling more accessible to everyone. The company has developed a user-friendly
app that allows customers to locate, rent, and return bicycles easily. This
convenience is crucial in encouraging more people to choose cycling over other
forms of transport, thereby fostering a culture of sustainable commuting.
Acknowledgment on Shark Tank India
Arijit gained national recognition when he appeared on
"Shark Tank India," a popular business reality television show. His
presentation showcased the innovative aspects of MYBYK and highlighted the
potential for growth in the bicycle-sharing market. This exposure not only
boosted the brand’s visibility but also attracted interest from potential
investors and partners.
Commitment to the Environment
As an environmentalist, Arijit is passionate about
addressing urban pollution and promoting sustainable practices. By encouraging
the use of bicycles, MYBYK contributes to reducing traffic congestion and
lowering carbon emissions in urban areas. Arijit believes that promoting
cycling is not just a business strategy but a necessary step toward creating
healthier, greener cities.
A Future-Focused Vision
Looking ahead, Arijit envisions expanding MYBYK’s footprint
across more Indian cities and potentially beyond. His goal is to create a
robust network of bicycle-sharing services that seamlessly integrates with
public transport systems, making commuting easier for everyone. By enhancing
urban mobility, MYBYK aims to foster a culture of cycling that benefits both
individuals and the environment.
A Legacy of Change
Through his efforts, Arijit Soni is not just building a
business; he is creating a movement toward more sustainable urban living. His
work with MYBYK serves as an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs and a
testament to the impact of innovative thinking in solving pressing urban
challenges. As cities continue to grow, Arijit’s vision for cycling cities in
India represents a forward-thinking approach to urban planning and
transportation.
The Heart of a Karmayogi
Arijit embodies the spirit of a "Karmayogi,"
someone dedicated to selfless action for the greater good. His journey reflects
a commitment to social and environmental responsibility. By integrating these
values into the core of MYBYK, Arijit is not only transforming urban mobility
but also contributing to a sustainable future for generations to come. Through
cycling, he encourages individuals to reconnect with their communities and the
environment, fostering a more active and engaged citizenry.
A timeline for Arjit Soni’s journey with MYBYK:
2007: Arjit becomes a Chartered Accountant after studying at
the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India.
2010: He completes his Bachelor of Commerce at the
University of Mumbai.
December 2013: Arjit launches MYBYK, aiming to integrate
cycling into urban transport.
May 2014: MYBYK officially starts in Ahmedabad with 200
bicycles and four stations.
2015: ISRO adopts the first 50 MYBYK bicycles, showcasing
its appeal in diverse sectors.
2019: MYBYK expands to over 1,500 bicycles in Ahmedabad and
collaborates on the Amdabike initiative.
2021: Arjit gains national recognition by appearing on
"Shark Tank India."
2024: MYBYK operates in several major cities, preparing to
introduce e-bike rentals.
