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Rothna Akhtar

Keen to bring people together, Rothna mixes well being with the cake industry in her business plan to design a space where shared experience meets exceptional cakes. Will Lord Sugar want a slice of the business?

Fact titleFact data
Occupation
Student Wellbeing Adviser
Location
East London

What is your business plan?
My business plan is to expand my part-time business, Rothna’s Bakery, into a threefold physical space. It combines bespoke occasion cakes, interactive baking workshops and a personalised cake bar station. Whether you’re after a cake for a special occasion, want to replace pottery painting with bento decorating, or simply want to craft your own cake flavours, my business is where it’s at. Need a self-care day? This is your new favourite escape.

My kindness should never be taken for weakness... I won’t let anything get in my way that limits my potential.

What makes you a unique candidate?
Part-time baking has taught me to have attention to detail in both cakes and life, whilst my wellbeing job has allowed me to read people instantly - a combination Lord Sugar has never seen. There’s a perception that business requires being cut-throat. I don’t buy it. You can make firm and brutal decisions but still operate with integrity. I’m never afraid to stand out in a room (and I’ve stood out for obvious reasons), and I believe I deserve a place at the table. I can hold my own, stay resilient under pressure and confront entitled people where necessary.

Why do you deserve Lord Sugar's investment?
My business plan will revolutionise the cake and experience industry. It combines my love of baking and wellbeing by offering a calming, creative space where people can decorate cakes or craft their own flavours. It promotes wellness, making it a worthwhile investment. Nothing in life comes easy and I’m ready to take every necessary detour - because I believe if it doesn’t challenge you, it will never change you. I’ve got a solid plan and I’m not afraid to work hard. With Lord Sugar’s backing, we could build a fresh, inspiring brand that makes everyone’s life just that bit sweeter.

How would those who know you describe you?
They would say I’m caring, protective of others and extremely self-aware. I’m my own toughest critic, spotting flaws before anyone else does, which keeps me prepared. But most of all, they would say I’m fiercely loyal - both in life and in business. However, my kindness should never be taken for weakness, as I won’t let anything get in my way that limits my potential. My family would describe me as their go-to person in their time of need. I guess you could say when it comes to getting the job done, I’m the icing on
the cake.