Biz Extra
Published: July 19, 2023 | Updated: 18th July 2023
We’re back again with another 20 Questions, the weekly format which sees us grilling some of Dorset’s leading lights with a series of part serious, part fun questions.
Taking the spotlight this week is Mehroz Ashraf, Founder of Mehroz Designer Jewellery.
Probably revealing a little bit about his age, he’d share a car with Harry Potter, his first DVD was Finding Nemo and his favourite piece of music is by Miley Cyrus…
What is your favourite TV show?
How to get away with Murder.
Who would you like to share a car with?
Harry Potter – I would love to learn some magic on the move! I think he would be a great company, I’d also love to know how he got into acting at such an early age!
The best bit of my job is…?
Everyday challenges – they allow me to learn something different everyday.
And the worst?
Poor work-life balance – being involved in multiple roles and wearing several different hats often makes it difficult for me to unwind and relax.
Who was your childhood hero?
Spider-man – I had several costumes of spider man, which I have now given to my nephew. I used to jump around on high cupboards in the kitchen, bedroom and lounge and my mum would refer to me as a monkey, but she didn’t know I was spider-man!
What’s your favourite smell?
Lavender – its so relaxing and I feel like it takes all my stress and worries away.
Where’s your favourite place in Dorset?
Bournemouth – I love sea and nothing can be compared to Bournemouth where you have a beautiful sandy beach and the reflection of the moon on the ocean water on a clear night – it’s just magical. The city is peaceful and brings positive vibes.
What advice would you give to anyone starting out on a career
Explore your passions: Take the time to identify your interests and what motivates you. Seek out career paths that align with your passions, as this will make your work more fulfilling and enjoyable.
What was your first DVD?
Finding Nemo – I still have it!
What makes you angry?
Betrayal: Being deceived or betrayed by someone you trust – loyalty & honesty are very important for me and it makes me upset when people betray me and are dishonest.
Do you have a favourite piece of music?
Flowers by Miley Cyrus – listening to this song gives me confidence that I can achieve anything in life no matter what the setbacks are!
What qualities do you look for in a new employee?
What’s your favourite food or dish?
Roast Duck if eating out otherwise I love a home cooked biryani.
What three things would you take to a desert island?
What’s the best thing about living/working in Dorset?
Dorset offers a vibrant coastal lifestyle. From seaside towns like Bournemouth to stunning natural landscapes, including the Jurassic Coast. I enjoy a variety of coastal activities such as beach walks, water sports, and fresh seafood dining.
It also offers a high quality of life with its slower pace, strong sense of community, and peaceful surroundings. While tourism plays a significant role in Dorset’s economy, the county also has a diverse range of industries. Additionally, Dorset has a thriving digital and creative industry, with many technology companies and creative agencies choosing to establish their presence in the area. This diversity provides opportunities for collaboration, networking, and growth across various sectors.
If you were Prime Minister for a day, what’s the first thing you’d do?
Reducing or eliminating university fee for both home and international students. It’s unfair on many individuals who are extremely talented but do not have financial resources to pursue a degree.
What’s your biggest frustration?
I often get frustrated when things don’t go according to plan. It causes delay, stress and often costs money to allow me to get the situation right.
Where’s your favourite holiday location?
Thailand – such a vibrant culture and so much to do from water sports, to delicious Thai curries, to beach night life to shopping! It’s got something for everyone.
Where do you see yourself in ten years’ time?
I would like to travel the world and teach ways people can find their passion and turn their ideas into businesses. I want to have enough resources that I can share with people and form several partnerships across the globe. It will continue to fulfil my passion of being entrepreneurial and generate several passive income streams for myself to have a relaxed life and time with family and friends.
What would you like to be remembered for?
positively impacting people’s lives in a way that has made them come closer to their dreams. I will feel great if I am remembered for someone’s success in their life.
For feel-good business news from across the border, check out our new sister site, Hampshire Biz News.
