Imran Savas

Where It All Began: The Making of a Leader

Growing up in a single-parent, Mauritian household on benefits meant responsibility came earlier than childhood should allow. By the age of five, Imran Savas already understood what bills were, and how money—or the lack of it—shaped everything around them. While other children played carefree games, Imran was learning the harsh mathematics of survival.

At school, free meals were available but the stigma of being labelled "poor" felt heavier than the hunger itself. He would refuse the food, choosing instead to wait until he got home, where a packet of Koka Noodles with Encona Original Hot Pepper Sauce would become his daily comfort.

The contrasts were stark and constant. While friends and family members would play the newest FIFA game on release day, Imran learned patience, often waiting months for the simplest of things. His childhood wasn't playful; it was marked by early maturity and an acute awareness of how the world worked. He knew things other children didn't, and whether among school friends, on the football pitch, or within his family, he often found himself leading.

With no one to help him find solutions, he had to figure everything out himself—a trait that continues to define him today. That sense of responsibility shaped who he is now. It taught him not to panic under pressure but to focus on finding solutions quickly, just as he did for his loved ones then and continues to do now. Without role models who looked like him or understood his world, he had to carve his own path entirely.

The realisation came early: he had a choice. Accept the limitations placed on him or become the leader he wished he'd had. His vision wasn't simply business success; it was to lead for good and peace, to become the superhero he once needed. That mindset became the cornerstone of everything that followed.

Rather than allowing his background to limit his aspirations, Imran used it to develop resilience, discipline, and determination. His childhood became the foundation of his life's mission: to prove that success isn't reserved for the privileged few but achievable for anyone with the courage to dream and the persistence to act.

The Professional Awakening: Seeing the Gap

Imran's professional journey began in accounting and finance, where he worked intimately with countless start-ups and small businesses. The pattern was heartbreakingly consistent: brilliant, ambitious founders trapped in survival mode, trying to juggle everything alone.

They possessed talent and drive but were drowning in exhaustion. When they finally sought help, they encountered expensive agencies, unreliable freelancers, and service providers who didn't grasp small business realities. The system was broken, and the people who needed support most were being failed by it.

The solution became clear: what was missing was a single, integrated platform built around the real needs of entrepreneurs—not the assumptions of corporate service providers.

The Leap of Faith: Building Something Better

In 2019, Imran made the boldest decision of his career. Leaving behind stability and success in accounting and finance, he launched Tape UK with no clients, no funding, no partners, and no team—just an unwavering vision: 

To make expert business support accessible, affordable, and genuinely effective for small business owners.

Almost immediately, the universe seemed to test his resolve. Within months of launching, a major corporation recognised Tape UK's potential and approached Imran with a substantial investment offer. 

For most entrepreneurs, it would have been a dream come true—validation, capital, and instant credibility.

But Imran said no.

He understood something crucial: external investment, particularly from large corporations, could compromise the very mission that drove him to start Tape UK. His vision wasn't for sale, and his purpose couldn't be bought.

Building the Solution: Tape UK Takes Shape

Tape UK emerged as a multi-award-winning platform offering everything a small business needs under one roof. With expert in-house support across accounting, branding, marketing, websites, and digital services, it simplified business growth through a single, reliable partnership.

The approach was revolutionary in its simplicity: operate with a fully in-house, UK-based team—no freelancers, no outsourcing—delivering affordable, high-quality support with complete transparency. Unlike traditional agencies or marketplaces, clients pay only for services they need, with clear pricing and seamless delivery from start to finish.

But Tape UK was never just about business services. Imran embedded philanthropy into its DNA. Every invoice contributes to meaningful social impact through clean water initiatives in underserved communities, ongoing charity donations, and mission-driven campaigns that challenge the status quo.

The Crisis Test: COVID-19 and True Leadership

Just one year into business, COVID-19 arrived like a wrecking ball through the global economy. While most companies focused on survival, Imran made a decision that would define Tape UK's character forever.

He told his entire client base not to pay Tape UK during the lockdowns. Instead, the company would continue serving them until businesses could reopen.

This wasn't mere generosity—it was strategic leadership rooted in profound empathy. Imran knew that by offering this lifeline to struggling businesses, he wasn't just helping them survive; he was ensuring loyal partnerships when recovery came. More importantly, it was simply the right thing to do.

The year 2020 also brought the Black Lives Matter movement into sharp corporate focus. While many businesses scrambled to showcase their diversity credentials, Imran and Tape UK simply continued as they always had. 

Diversity wasn't a marketing campaign for them—it was foundational DNA. For Imran, authentic leadership meant living your values consistently, not performing them when convenient.

Under his principled guidance, Tape UK achieved remarkable results:

• A 99% client retention rate
• Consistent year-on-year growth, entirely self-funded
• Multiple industry awards
• Helped entrepreneurs across the UK reclaim time, reduce stress, and scale with clarity

Building a Different Kind of Team

As Tape UK grew, so did its commitment to authentic diversity. The team that emerged reflects Imran's core values—a vibrant mix of different backgrounds, cultures, and religions working together toward a shared mission. 

What makes this particularly remarkable is that Imran, despite being the founder and leader, is actually the youngest person in his company.

This dynamic creates something unique in the business world: a young visionary leading a team of experienced professionals who chose to follow his mission rather than his age. 

It's a testament to the power of purpose over hierarchy, wisdom over seniority, and vision over convention. The diverse expertise and perspectives within the team don't just strengthen Tape UK's capabilities—they embody the inclusive future Imran has always envisioned.

The Platform: From TEDx to Global Voice

In less than a year of launching Tape UK, something extraordinary happened. Imran was invited to speak at TEDx without even applying—a testament to the buzz his work was creating. His talk, "Leaders of Tomorrow," struck a profound chord globally and was later promoted to the main TED platform, placing him alongside icons like Bill Gates, Simon Sinek, and Mel Robbins.

But for Imran, this wasn't about prestige—it was about message. Leadership isn't about titles or privilege; it's about unlocking potential within yourself and others. His talk was for every person told they weren't enough, every entrepreneur overlooked, every dreamer dismissed.

The response was overwhelming. His Instagram platform @byimransavas began attracting a substantial following, including celebrities, politicians, and changemakers who connected with his authentic voice. That digital influence became a powerful tool for change, demonstrating how business leaders can use their platforms for genuine impact.

His message resonated because it was simple and true: Leadership isn't a job title—it's the courage to lift others through trust.

Recognition: Speaking Truth to Power

Recognition followed, though it was never the goal. The pinnacle moment came in 2024 at the MBCC Awards, where Imran was named Entrepreneur of the Year, competing against notable innovators including Gymshark's Ben Francis MBE.

Standing on stage wearing his Palestinian Keffiyeh with pride, Imran chose not to focus on personal achievement but on humanity itself:

"This year, I have found it hard due to the conflict in Palestine. I know it is controversial to say in front of all of you, but for me, humanity is more important. To speak on their behalf means more to me than this award. Keep everyone in our prayers and let's work for humanity together."

The standing ovation that followed wasn't just for him—it was for truth spoken with courage. It reflected everything he stands for: justice, humanity, and the unwavering belief that leadership means speaking up for those without voices.

This moment wasn't isolated but exemplified Imran's ongoing commitment to humanitarian causes. He continues to support and speak for the children of Palestine on his platforms, using his influence to amplify their voices and advocate for their rights. For Imran, leadership means having the courage to speak truth even when uncomfortable, especially concerning the most vulnerable.

His growing list of accolades includes:

• Entrepreneur      of the Year 2024 – MBCC Awards beating Gymshark's Ben Francis MBE
• Most      Inspirational Entrepreneur 2025 – Multicultural Inspire Awards
• LDC      Top 50 Most Ambitious Leaders 2022 – Sunday Times feature
• Positive      Role Model Award 2020 – National Diversity Awards      (alongside Marcus Rashford MBE)
• Immortalised      in LEGO – Chester Market Display 2023
• Featured across TED, BBC, ITV, Islam Channel, M&S, and major publications

Each recognition serves as a springboard rather than a finish line—opportunities to expand his platform and amplify causes that matter.

Staying True: The Ultimate Test

Imran's commitment to mission over money faced its ultimate test in 2025 when another corporation approached Tape UK with a valuation so astronomical that most would have accepted without hesitation.

Again, Imran said no.

The reason was elegantly simple: he refuses to let Tape UK lose the purpose for which it was created. For him, success isn't measured by exit valuations but by mission impact. Money may solve many problems, but it cannot buy the authenticity and trust that Tape UK has built with its community.

This consistent pattern—choosing purpose over profit, mission over money—isn't just admirable; it's revolutionary in today's business landscape.

The Philosophy: Service as Leadership

What distinguishes Imran's journey isn't just business metrics but the philosophy driving them: genuine leadership means service. 

Success isn't measured by personal accolades but by positive impact on humanity. 

Every person, regardless of background, possesses untapped potential. 

The leader's role is creating conditions for that potential to flourish.

Imran's philosophy centres on four pillars:

• Transform struggles into wisdom
• Be authentically confident in your own skin
• Use your platform as a force for good
• Keep humanity at the centre of every decision

Imran Savas | Timeline of Achievements (2019–Present)

2025

· - Featured in MBCC Book – Story included in official publication launched September 16th

· - Guest Speaker: No Plan & Plan — Founders & Creatives Network on 14 Sep 2025, Kismet Café (Whitechapel, London) — talk on entrepreneurship, growth and impact.

· - Advertisement Feature: in an FC Urban × Mastercard × UEFA campaign that highlights inclusive football across six cities in five countries, helping power 500+ weekly games and new connections.

· - Judge: Selected alongside members of The FA and The King's Trust for the MBCC Awards 2025, held on Saturday 29th November 2025 at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole—a full-circle moment following his 2024 win as Entrepreneur of the Year.

· - Nominated: Most Inspirational Entrepreneur of the Year at the Multicultural Inspire Awards 2025, recognising impact in business and community leadership.

· - Podcast Guest: Featured on the Side by Side Podcast hosted by Kazi Shafiqur Rahman, alongside notable guests including Rob Moore, former Scotland First Minister Humza Yousaf, and Sir Iqbal Sacranie, sharing entrepreneurial insights, views on global humanitarian issues, and unifying leadership strategies.

· - Media Feature: Recognised alongside cultural icon Levi Roots in UK News Group as one of the UK's most inspiring entrepreneurs.

· - Nominated: Entrepreneur of Excellence at the National Diversity Awards 2025, highlighting contributions to inclusive business.

· - Speaking Engagement: Delivered a keynote at Pre-Ramadan in the City 2025 hosted by The Purple Network, Human Appeal and Emerald Network at The Ivy, London.

· - Recognition: Nominated again for Role Model of the Year at the National Diversity Awards 2025, honouring commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

2024

· - Award Winner: Named Entrepreneur of the Year at the MBCC Awards 2024, defeating notable finalists including Gymshark founder Ben Francis MBE.

· - Nominated: Entrepreneur of the Year and Most Inspirational Person of the Year at the MBCC Awards 2024.

· - Nominated: Entrepreneur of Excellence and Role Model of the Year at the National Diversity Awards 2024.

· - Media Feature: Interviewed by All About Cheshire Magazine discussing Tape UK's mission and impact.

· - Speaker: Appeared on Islam Channel’s 'The Today Show' with Basit Khan, sharing personal and professional insights.

2023

· - Nominated: Two National Diversity Awards for entrepreneurship and positive role modelling.

· - Immortalised: Featured in LEGO form at the New Chester Market to honour contributions to the city of Chester.

· - Media Feature: Profiled in All About Cheshire Magazine and The Cheshire Magazine.

2022

· - Nominated: Entrepreneur of the Year at the MBCC Awards 2022.

· - Nominated: Entrepreneur of Excellence at the National Diversity Awards 2022.

· - Media Feature: Appeared in 'See Me, Be Me' campaign by the Anthony Walker Foundation in partnership with Marks & Spencer.

2021

· - Shortlisted: Most Influential Business Person of the Year at the MBCC Awards 2021.

· - Speaker: Featured across diverse platforms including schools, universities, large corporations, charities, and the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), delivering talks on inclusive leadership, youth empowerment, and entrepreneurial development.

2020

· - TEDx Speaker: Delivered ‘Leaders of Tomorrow’ which was promoted to TED.com, placing him alongside global icons.

· - Nominated: Positive Role Model Award for Race, Faith & Religion at The National Diversity Awards 2020.

2019

· - Founder: Launched Tape UK from scratch — with no clients, team, or investment — quickly growing into an innovate multi-award-winning national service provider.

· - Philanthropy: Initiated Tape UK’s water project programme, building clean water infrastructure in underserved communities.

The Voice That Moves Mountains

Today, Imran stands as a sought-after speaker, mentor, and change catalyst—respected not just for achievements but for integrity. Whether addressing boardrooms or classrooms, he brings deep listening, bold thinking, and actionable solutions.

His Instagram platform has become a hub for authentic leadership content, followed by politicians, celebrities, and changemakers who recognise genuine substance over superficial inspiration.

His signature speaking topics include:

"Shaking Hands with Yourself" – A powerful exploration of self-recognition and personal validation. This talk helps leaders move from self-doubt to self-trust by learning to honour their own growth and resilience before seeking external validation.

"Leadership Through Service" – An examination of why purpose-driven businesses consistently outperform profit-first companies. Imran challenges the money-first mindset, showing how serving others while doing what you love creates both meaning and sustainable success.

"Become a Leader in the Next Decade" – A call to action for conscious leadership. As traditional power structures evolve, Imran outlines how everyday people can become extraordinary change-makers and why the right people with the right resources can truly transform the world.

Services That Transform

Strategic Mentoring

• Private strategy sessions for high-stakes decisions where clarity meets courage
• Monthly mentoring programs providing executive advisory relationships for serious      founders
• Business launch and brand consulting for ventures ready to make genuine impact

Speaking & Media

• Transformative keynotes that blend story with strategy
• Panel discussions that elevate conversations beyond surface level
• Podcast appearances that go deeper than typical business interviews
• Free educational talks at schools, universities, and places of worship

The Mission Continues

Imran Savas doesn't just build businesses—he builds bridges. Whether through entrepreneurship, mentoring, public speaking, or philanthropy, his goal remains laser-focused:

Unlock human potential. Remove unnecessary struggle. Create access to success—no matter your background, postcode, or starting point.

His journey from an only child understanding bills to a globally recognised leader speaking truth to power proves a fundamental truth: where you start never has to define where you finish. 

But more than that, it demonstrates that true success comes not from what you achieve for yourself, but from what you make possible for others.

In a world often obsessed with individual achievement, Imran represents something different—leadership as service, success as collective uplift, and business as a force for good. 

He's not just changing his own life; he's changing the rules of the game for everyone who comes after him.

"My childhood wasn't playful; it was marked by early maturity and an awareness of how the world worked. I knew things other children didn't, and I often found myself leading. That sense of responsibility shaped who I am now. It taught me not to panic under pressure but to focus on finding solutions quickly. Where you start never has to define where you finish."

For speaking engagements, strategic partnerships, or media opportunities with someone who brings substance, story, and solutions—Imran Savas is ready to help you build something that truly lasts.

Let’s Build Something That Lasts

Bookings & Media – info@tapeuk.com
Instagram – @byimransavas