Anish Mehta was born and raised in Cheshire. His parents were expelled from Uganda by Idi Amin in 1972 and managed to settle in the North-West of England. Anish went onto study German/Business Studies at the University of Sheffield, before starting a career as a management consultant at PricewaterhouseCoopers. He took a sabbatical from consulting in 2002, in which he pursued voluntary work and self-development in Latin America and India. Upon his return, Anish continued his philanthropy as well as delving deeper into fitness, mindfulness, and spirituality.
Roll onto 2020 and COVID, even though he still remains a successful freelance management consultant, Anish started a workout group called Barfi Bootcamp (barfi meaning sweets in Gujarati). At first there were just 10 bootcamp members who took the weekly cardio/weights/yoga/meditation/pilates sessions. Now there are more than 230 members from across the world, including the UK, Switzerland, India, Dubai, Africa, and America, with ages ranging from 20 to over 70, many of whom have never exercised before. Anish’s bootcamps are all done through Zoom, and more importantly, he does them all for free and anyone can join.
The fitness camp inspired Anish to become fully qualified Personal Trainer, Nutritional Advisor and Mindfulness Practitioner.
Questions:
Which place, or city or country do you most feel at home in?
London. I have travelled all over the world and experienced amazing cultures and people, but London has it all. Ok, the weather isn’t always perfect, you cannot have it all!
What are your proudest achievements?
I was part of a team which organised a charity bike in India, from Taj Mahal to the Palace of Jaipur. An incredibly unique experience for everyone involved and we managed to raise approx. £500,000
What inspires you?
Those who strive to serve others selflessly and unconditionally. Currently inspired by our NHS and key workers. COVID has challenged society in so many ways, but we have all witnessed some real superheroes, saving the day
What has been biggest obstacle in your career?
I had taken time to get the balance right when you want to get involved in so many opportunities.
Who has been the biggest influence on your career to date?
I have been blessed with 'angel and guides' all my life - I think the key is to communicate and talk to those who can help, in your time of your need. Sometimes the hard part can be to accept that you need help.
What is the best aspect about your current role?
Helping people to help themselves and inspire others.
And the worst?
Not much. I love what I do!
What are your long-term goals?
To grow the community aspect of health and fitness. But also, to establish our holistic wellbeing coaching organisation (myJiva), which will provide tailored guidance on mind, nutrition, and fitness.
If you were Prime Minister, what one aspect would you change?
I would introduce mindfulness practice into schools e.g. yoga and meditation, as part of the curriculum.
If you were marooned on a desert island, which historical figure would you like to spend your time with and why?
Mahatma Gandhi - would love to understand how he transformed from a lawyer in South Africa, to the father of a nation
