Vipul Shah was born in Mombasa, Kenya in 1953.His father had a maize mill and he and his brothers, helped him after school hours and at the weekends. This is where he gained some business knowledge at a very young age. He immigrated to the UK in 1979 and married Naina. Although he was working for a retail chain, he always wanted to become a businessman. With the help of a friend, he managed to set up a small multimedia manufacturing unit in the late 1990s. By early 2000, he successfully expanded his business and his son joined me him at the age of 18. His business was affected due to the digital age and he sold the factory in 2018. He is now happily retired and lives with his wife, son, and daughter-in-law.
1 Which place or city country do you feel most at home in?
Initially it was difficult for me to settle in a new country as I have always been reliant on my family, but since I was now alone, I learnt to take responsibility. I have always lived in North London with my wife, son and daughter and now feel at home here.
2 What are your proudest achievements?
My proudest achievement was when I designed my own tailor-made Machines with the help of a German Company. With those machines, I was the first in the world to produce machine packable CD sleeves.
3 What Inspires you?
My inspiration has always been my family especially my brothers and my wife. My family were business minded and always guided me to success
4 What has been the biggest obstacle?
My biggest obstacle was finance. Despite of know-how, I could not expand to what I wanted to achieve.
5 Who has been the biggest influence?
It is true that there is always a woman behind every successful man. Naina has been my Strength in every aspect of my life.
6 What is the best aspect?
I am now successfully retired with no regrets.
7 And the worst?
Every person goes through hurdles and worst times of their lives and I have learnt to be strong and confident.
8 What are your long term goals?
I am truly satisfied with my achievements and I thank my family and some friends who Have always stood by me.
9 If you were Prime Minister, what one aspect would you change?
If I were the Prime Minister of this country, I would not change much as we are doing Just fine. I have noticed that when ever I have travelled abroad, most people would like to live in UK. This proves that we are one of the best countries in the world.
10 If you were marooned on a dessert, which historical figure would you like to spend your time with and why?
I would have to choose Mother Teresa, as she spent most of her life serving the under privilege. She was selfless and that I really admire.
