In this engaging interview, we discussed with Akash Agarwal the innovative mind behind myresQR.life. With a rich 30-year background in the consumer retail sector and a passion for pioneering emergency response solutions, Akash shares his journey, challenges, and aspirations, offering invaluable insights for entrepreneurs and visionaries alike.
How will you introduce yourself to the world?
I am Akash Agarwal, the visionary behind myresQR.life, with a 30-year tenure in the consumer retail sector. My journey began as an assistant to my entrepreneurial mother in Agra during the mid-’80s. After earning postgraduate degrees in Management and Economics, I embarked on a career that saw the successful launch of various brands and products in India. At myresQR.life, I lead India’s sole 360° Emergency Response Platform, a globally recognized initiative and the world’s first Emergency Alert ID system operating independently of smartphones or internet connectivity.
Tell your readers about your achievements till today (Be Honest)!
This is an interesting question. While I may not be a big achiever by market or societal norms, what I achieved in my capacity includes being the only candidate from Agra selected to a premier B-school, being the youngest in the team to launch Nakshatra Diamonds, and breaking taboos around starting up. I’ve faced success and failure frequently, but here I am, standing tall and not accepting defeat. Is it a small achievement? I think not.
Tell us about your start-up!
myresQR.life began as an interface to bridge the communication gap between an unconscious, unidentified emergency victim and their stakeholders. It evolved into India’s only end-to-end emergency solutions platform. Recently, myresQR.life was ranked among the global top 5 enablers of emergency response and the only one from Asia to achieve this. When myresQR.life was mentioned in the G20’s SUMup of innovative ideas and became part of the UPSC curriculum, I knew we had made a significant impact.
What’s the most important thing you’re working on right now, and how are you making it happen?
Currently, I’m exploring the creation of a community-led movement, driven by youth, to become responsible first responders or Good Samaritans. We aim to make every citizen of India feel duty-bound to help accident or emergency victims, with myresQR.life serving as an enabler in this ecosystem.
What’s your take on your segmented/targeted market?
We are committed to continuous innovation in the emergency ecosystem.
What are the challenges you have faced, and what are the current challenges? Mention the top three challenges for both.
The biggest challenge is the lack of awareness around the Good Samaritan law, which deters people from helping due to fear of harassment by hospitals and police.
Why have you started up? Be specific with your reasons!!
I had to leave my job for reasons beyond explanation. After considering various options, I realized my heart’s calling was to solve real, overlooked problems. This led to the inception of myresQR.life, inspired by my personal experience and realising a communication gap in emergencies.
Where do you want to see yourself in the next 5 years?
I see myself playing a vital role as an enabler in the entire emergency response ecosystem.
Please share your learning with fellow Entrepreneurs.
Trust yourself. Don’t follow others’ advice blindly, especially from those who haven’t walked in your shoes. Stay away from so-called mentors without firsthand business experience.
Akash Agarwal’s journey from a young assistant in Agra to a leader in emergency response innovation is a testament to his dedication and vision. His insights provide a unique perspective on entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of self-belief, innovation, and addressing real-world problems. As he continues to impact the emergency response ecosystem, Akash remains an inspiring figure for aspiring entrepreneurs and visionaries worldwide.