Akshay Thakrar: Entrepreneur, Innovator and BBC Apprentice Candidate

When the name akshay thakrar is mentioned, it resonates with entrepreneurship, creativity and an unstoppable drive for success. Known for his appearance on The Apprentice UK in 2022, Akshay has since become a prominent business leader and founder of innovative ventures. His journey from student life to boardrooms, from launching digital platforms to celebrating a high-profile wedding, captures the spirit of modern British enterprise.
Early Life and Background
Where Is Akshay Thakrar From?
Akshay Thakrar was born and raised in London, England, a city that shaped much of his character and entrepreneurial outlook. His British upbringing combined with strong family values provided him with a unique perspective, blending tradition with ambition. Growing up in a multicultural city gave him exposure to diverse ideas and opportunities, fuelling his passion for business from an early age.
Akshay Thakrar Family
While he often maintains privacy about his immediate family, it is known that his mother has been a strong source of encouragement, even hinting during his Apprentice journey that he might find “the one.” This proved prophetic as Akshay would later marry fellow Apprentice contestant Harpreet Kaur. His family’s support has always underpinned his determination to achieve.
Education and University Journey
Coventry University
Akshay studied Enterprise and Entrepreneurship at Coventry University, an academic path perfectly aligned with his ambitions. His time at university gave him the tools to build and scale businesses, while nurturing his ability to think outside the box. The structured learning, combined with real-world applications, set the foundation for his career in marketing, technology and operations.
The Apprentice Experience
Akshay Thakrar on BBC Apprentice
In 2022, Akshay entered the spotlight as a contestant on Series 16 of The Apprentice UK. At the time, he was 28 years old, making him one of the younger candidates with impressive business credentials. His charismatic personality, sales ability and multilingual skills made him stand out. Speaking seven languages and joking that his first word was “profit,” he quickly earned the nickname “AK47”, reflecting his sharp sales tactics.
Challenges and Achievements
Although he was eventually fired in Week 9, Akshay’s time on The Apprentice was memorable. He visited the boardroom more than most, yet continued to fight his corner with confidence. His experience on the show not only tested his resilience but also introduced him to a wider audience who admired his determination.
Harpreet Kaur and Akshay Thakrar
The show also gave him something more personal: his future wife. Harpreet Kaur, who went on to win the series, formed a close bond with Akshay. The couple began dating after the cameras stopped rolling. In May 2023, they announced their engagement with a romantic proposal, and by June 2024 they celebrated a lavish three-day wedding that combined civil, Western and traditional Indian ceremonies. Their marriage was historic, marking the first time two contestants from The Apprentice UK tied the knot.
Professional Journey
Founder at Tips 360
After his Apprentice appearance, Akshay continued to make waves in the business world. He founded Tips 360 in December 2022, a company that uses artificial intelligence (AI) to predict outcomes in sports betting. By analysing past performances, player statistics, team dynamics and other data points, Tips 360 provides intelligent, research-driven betting predictions.
This innovative platform demonstrates Akshay’s ability to merge technology with consumer demand, making him a pioneer in an emerging field.
Founder of SAI Network
Alongside Tips 360, Akshay is also the founder of SAI Network, launched in October 2019. This company specialises in lead generation through multi-channel acquisition strategies. By connecting brands with new audiences, SAI Network has delivered measurable results for clients across sectors. The venture showcases Akshay’s expertise in marketing, growth strategies and digital operations.
Expertise and Professional Skills
Marketing and Growth
Akshay is recognised as a marketing, operations and management professional with a proven track record of building innovative campaigns for global brands and high-profile clients. His skills extend across growth marketing, digital strategy, influencer collaborations and consumer promotions.
Strategic Thinking
Effective at setting goals and developing performance metrics, Akshay has consistently driven cross-functional alignment. His strategies not only focus on customer acquisition but also emphasise brand awareness, retention and revenue growth.
Digital Innovation
With an eye for emerging technologies, he continues to integrate AI, machine learning and digital platforms into his ventures. His forward-thinking approach keeps his businesses competitive in fast-changing markets.
Personal Life and Age
Akshay Thakrar Age
At the time of The Apprentice in 2022, Akshay was 28 years old. Now, in 2025, he is around 32 years old, entering a phase of life where his professional achievements and personal commitments are both flourishing.
Harpreet Kaur and Married Life
His marriage to Harpreet Kaur in 2024 symbolises not only a personal milestone but also a partnership of two entrepreneurial minds. Their shared experiences on The Apprentice and beyond highlight a story that blends love, ambition and success.
Legacy and Future Outlook
Building on Success
From university classrooms to TV boardrooms, from launching businesses to building a family, Akshay’s journey is an inspiring one. His ventures, Tips 360 and SAI Network, reflect his ability to spot trends and transform ideas into profitable realities.
Inspiration to Entrepreneurs
For aspiring business leaders, his story proves that resilience, innovation and adaptability are key ingredients for success. Whether it was facing Lord Sugar in the boardroom, or navigating the competitive digital marketplace, Akshay has always shown confidence and creativity.
Conclusion
The story of akshay thakrar is more than a tale of business success; it is about determination, innovation and personal growth. From his education at Coventry University to his ventures like Tips 360 and SAI Network, from his memorable Apprentice journey to his marriage with Harpreet Kaur, Akshay continues to redefine what it means to be a modern entrepreneur.
As he moves forward, Akshay Thakrar remains a name to watch — a dynamic leader whose vision will continue to shape industries, inspire entrepreneurs and leave a lasting mark on the world of business.