Durban entrepreneur featured on Forbes Top 30 Under 30 list

Avthar Aniruth isn't your ordinary individual. He is a hard worker who has always had an eye for business. At 21, he has made The Forbes Top 30 Under 30 list, whilst aiming to make a change in the world.

The support of his family and friends has been unconditional and is an important component of his life. Taking media and making it his own, whilst at the same time creating opportunities for other millennials, Avthar is an inspiration. Find out what his secret of success is and how you can get in touch with him.

​I grew up in a family of Entrepreneurs, so I guess business is in my blood. I have a little brother and I strive to be the best role model for him. My parents have always taught us to dream BIG and traveling the world has exposed us to global opportunities. As a kid and teenager in school, I was very shy and unassuming, however, all that changed when I started my own business. I am still very close to my school friends, who are some of my biggest supporters and most of them are studying to become doctors.

What made you become an entrepreneur? 

I have always known that I wanted to be a businessman like my dad. “Jump and the net will appear” is what he always says. Watching him help people was a big motivating factor for me. I love technology and making videos and through perseverance and sheer determination, I turned that passion into a successful business.

 Tell us more about your business and how it started?  

I believe in bootstrapping a business, which is how I was able to start my business. I could not have done this without the support of my parents. I also did a lot of work for free, because not many people were willing to give an 18-year-old straight out of school, with no formal education an opportunity. I provided a unique quality product and learnt everything I know online, which means that my skills are on par with my international peers.

What does it mean to you to be recognised by Forbes, and how did you feel when you learnt of the news? 

This recognition by Forbes in making the Top 30 under 30 list at 21 years old is a great honour, and it's motivating me to grow my business to a global scale. It also opens doors to all the possibilities throughout Africa and the world. When I first heard the news I was in shock and humbled at the same time.

You have entered a very competitive industry – Media. How does your business stand out and what do you do differently from the rest? 

Whilst technology is a competitive industry, I love the fact that it is constantly changing. Innovation is the key to success. We try to innovate and do things differently, and this is what sets us apart from the rest. From our green screen studio to our online TV series, we are always trying things that have not been done before in Africa.

In your eyes, define what success means to you... 

To me, success means the ability to achieve your goals with precision focus and work ethic. My goals are also not just about making money. Purpose lead enterprises are the key to solving many of the world's problems. So one of my goals is to help young people become entrepreneurs because I truly believe that it is one of the solutions to unemployment.

What is your secret to success at such a young age? 

I would attribute a lot of my success to Mind Power. It has been an integral part of my life. I thank my parents for teaching me this at a very young age. I believe that if you have concentrated focus on what you love, everything else will follow. Many people are passionate, I’m obsessed. If you’re obsessed with something and love doing it, the money, success, and recognition will follow.

What advice do you have for the millennials of today?  

Do what you love. I was very fortunate to be supported by my parents to start my business straight out of school. I believe education is very important and we have to learn every day but don’t be pressured into doing something that you don’t enjoy.

Have you considered starting a mentorship programme for the youth? If so, share a bit about this... 

I believe strongly in empowering the youth. I know all the struggles of being young and in business. This is actually one of the reasons I have founded a new Tech Startup called  “Business Blueprint” that makes it easy for youth to start their own businesses. I firmly believe that entrepreneurship is the key to many of South Africa’s problems

Are there any opportunities available currently in your organisation? If so, how does one go about applying and learning more?

Yes, there are opportunities available in my team and anyone can send me an email at [email protected] and let’s grab a coffee.

How can we learn more about your business?

You can visit audiencenetworks.co.za , avtharaniruth.co.za for all our handles and info.

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