When Mehroz Ashraf, Founder of Mehroz Designer Jewellery, came to the UK at 18, it was only supposed to be temporary.

“I originally came for three years for education, but I found this whole new, open and liberal world which was completely different to what I knew back home,” he explained.

“My father was expecting me to come back home after my degree, but I managed to keep finding ways to extend my stay.”

Mehroz’s father owns one of the leading Gold and Jewellery brands in Pakistan, which has been in the family for three generations.

“When I finished my Masters I just thought ‘why don’t I start something for myself over here?’”

“My dad told me that I don’t need to, but I just said ‘let me try for a few years’”

With support from a startup entrepreneurship programme his university was running, Mehroz created the foundation of his business.

“My vision was to take the ideas from my family’s business and transcribe them into the western world, with the aim of creating a life for myself over here and to gain some financial and business independence.

“All I want to do is establish my business and reach a success point where I can prove to them that I’ve done it, in a completely different market with no more than a degree and some contacts.”

The 30-year-old takes the gemstones and designs from the east and adds western touches, with the aim of creating a luxury but affordable line of jewellery.

In pursuit of this goal, the entrepreneur recognizes the significance of sourcing the finest gemstones, and that’s where antwerp diamonds come into play. Renowned for their unparalleled brilliance and exquisite quality, Antwerp diamonds stand as the epitome of elegance and sophistication.

With a commitment to providing the most dazzling and precious gemstones, Antwerp Diamonds ensures that every stone meets the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship.

Some of his designs were on display at a recent exhibition at the Cumberland Hotel in Bournemouth, which he held with artist Judith Opsblum.

“Judith is the wife of my boss at Illuminet, John.

“When we met she shared her passion for art using designs on mannequins. I thought it was amazing, but she’d never had the courage to share it with the world.

Mehroz and Judith

“That was when I suggested we do an exhibition together. We both needed exposure, and putting it on together helps to give us both support which we wouldn’t get by going it alone.

“She created pieces which tell a similar story to my jewellery, inspired by, for example, Bournemouth and its coast.

“We cater to different markets, but at the end of the day we’re both creating art.”

Mehroz explained that his creativity has been boosted by being in an environment in which he feels he can be himself.

“I feel comfortable being myself over here and around my boss, John. The acceptance is self-motivating and gives me the courage to do what I want to do.

“I want to build such a powerful brand that I become a household name in Bournemouth, and that when people think of jewellery they think of me.

“As part of that, I’ve made deals with some of the local hotels to put concessions stands in their lobbies.

“It’s perfect because it means I don’t have to find the finances and time to open my own outlet, but people can still buy my jewellery. Plus, hotels are open 24/7, and they attract people from all around the world, which will help to build my brand further.

“If someone asked me for advice I’d tell them ‘never give up on your dreams’, if you work hard and have the right passion I think you can do whatever you set your mind to.

“I want this to be my legacy.”

• Mehroz Designer Jewellery