Payal Kadakia

Payal Kadakia is the founder of ClassPass, the innovative fitness membership giving consumers access to an array of gyms and salons. It is first unicorn of the 2020s, becoming a billion-dollar start-up in January 2020.

The business idea grew from Kadakia’s futile search for an evening ballet class. Consumers could not access membership-only institutions and businesses could not fill empty spots. Kadakia saw the potential for a platform that matched these parties.

Her vision of radical choice for all manner of fitness enthusiasts spearheaded a revolution in the industry. ClassPass was quickly a roaring success. It achieved a $1 billion valuation and facilitated over 100 million hours of workouts across 30,000 partner studios spanning over 30 countries. Kadakia’s innovative approach to fitness and wellness not only transformed the landscape but also inspired millions worldwide to prioritise their well-being. ClassPass was acquired by Mindbody in October 2021.

Beyond her entrepreneurial endeavours, Payal Kadakia is the visionary force behind The Sa Dance Company, an artistic platform she established in 2009 with a mission to elevate Indian dance and foster cultural expression within mainstream media. Through dance, Kadakia aspires to celebrate and articulate the unique identity of Indian-Americans.

Kadakia’s achievements have been widely recognised by leading publications and platforms. She was named one of Fast Company’s 100 Most Creative People and featured on Fortune’s 40 under 40 list. She is a sought-after keynote speaker on entrepreneurship, innovation and the intersection of wellness and technology.

Drawing from her diverse background, Payal Kadakia captivates audiences with compelling stories and offers profound insights into leadership, resilience and pursuing one’s passions. She has a Bachelor of Science degree from MIT and corporate experience from her tenure at Bain & Company and Warner Music Group.

In her debut book, LifePass: Drop Your Limits, Rise to Your Potential, Kadakia shares insights and strategies to empower individuals to unleash their full potential and lead fulfilling lives.

As a highly charismatic and dynamic speaker, Payal Kadakia’s speaking topics include but are not limited to:

– Redefining Success: Lessons from Entrepreneurship

• – Innovation in Wellness: Navigating the Future of Fitness
• – Embracing Change: Thriving in Dynamic Environments
• – Unlocking Your Potential: Overcoming Limiting Beliefs