Arif Patel's journey into the business world began "with a strong desire to create something impactful," he tells Hub4Business.
"From a young age, I was fascinated by how businesses operate and the potential they have to drive change."
But it wasn't until he launched his first venture in the textile industry that "Facing early challenges head-on taught me resilience and the importance of innovation."
Over the next two decades, Patel went on to found several successful businesses, including Preston Trading in the United Arab Emirates and Al Mana Group in the United Kingdom.
Now, he's investing $2 million in a fraud-detection technology that he hopes will "set a new standard for ethical practices in the industry," he tells Hub4Business.
"Currently, we're focusing on several projects, including educational initiatives in underprivileged areas and healthcare programs in regions with limited access to medical services," he says.
"One major project is building schools in rural parts of Africa, which aims to provide quality education to children who otherwise wouldn't have such opportunities," he adds.
"My drive to support these causes stems from a belief that everyone deserves access to necessities and opportunities for growth."
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Weston Mill-based social enterprise Surplus Rescue CIC (Community Interest Company) recycles and finds homes for unwanted furniture. To date, it has received “extensive amounts” of quality second-hand furniture including desks, pedestals, cupboards and office chairs from a former local authority office equipment – and wants to find them a good home.