A finance professional-turned-beauty-tech entrepreneur, Bhavika Kothari is driven by a unique blend of analytical acumen and a deep-rooted passion for personal care. A commerce graduate from Mumbai’s Narsee Monjee College and CFA Level 2 candidate, she also holds a master’s in corporate finance from Cass Business School. After beginning her career in auditing and equity analysis, Ms Kothari followed her entrepreneurial calling to launch FOY, an AI (artificial intelligence)-driven and AR (augmented reality)-powered, expert-led, e-commerce platform, redefining beauty and wellness in India. FOY focuses on hyper-personalisation, inclusivity and innovation, especially across tier-2 to tier-4 cities. Her leadership is fuelled by a mission to empower individuals through self-care. When not at work, Ms Kothari loves to travel, stay active, explore cultures and spend quality time with her loved ones, writes Sharmila Chand after an engaging conversation with the FOY founder.

What is your philosophy of life?
Live deeply, not just wide. Chase growth, and be kind – everyone is fighting something.

What is your passion in life?
Building things that matter, whether it is a brand, a platform, or a team, creation gives me purpose.

What is the secret of your success?
Consistency over intensity: You do not have to go fast. You just need to keep going.

What is your philosophy of work?
Work should be meaningful and not just transactional. I believe in creating impact, helping people, solving real problems and building something that outlives me.

What do you like to do in your free time?
Read about global consumer trends and binge on interviews of entrepreneurs or creators; I like to spend time with myself.

A business leader you admire the most…
Indra Nooyi for her strength, humility and ability to balance strategy with grace

Your source of inspiration…
My dad – he taught me the value of hustle and integrity. And every woman builds fearlessly, and
I learn a lot from them.

How has your journey been so far?

My journey has been challenging yet rewarding. From entering an industry I knew nothing about to building trust with global partners, it has been intense. I have tackled challenges with curiosity, mentorship and sheer perseverance.

What do you enjoy the most in life, generally?
Meaningful conversations, solo travel and seeing ideas come to life. I love witnessing growth in myself, my team and my brand.

How do you de-stress?
Digital detoxes, breaks and a solid playlist and also, just doing nothing at times – that is underrated.

Three lessons as an entrepreneur or founder…

•       Speed matters, but clarity matters more.
•       Patience and perseverance are the key to success.
•       Trust yourself in the process.

Most favourite project and why?
FOY – the journey from an idea to a real platform that is impacting people’s routines and confidence – It is close to my heart because it is my first baby.

Where do we see you ten years from now?
Running a group of consumer brands with impact

Lastly, how would you like to define yourself?
A builder, a learner, and a believer in real, raw ambition

Chand.sharmila@gmail.com