Propelling Innovation and Equitability in Healthcare
At just 34 years of age, the dynamic Ankit Shah is an international awardwinning Entrepreneur and Consultant. Yet what truly sets him apart is that not only does he work in the challenging field of Healthcare, but he’s on a quest to make it innovative and equitable for all!
Born in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, Ankit grew up in a loving and supporting family that instilled in him values of hard work, perseverance, and resilience. At the same time, moving away from home at the age of 17 taught him adaptability, self-reliance, and the importance of embracing new environments.
During his undergraduate studies, he was selected to be one of the Research Investigators in a national study on ‘Pharmacist Perception in India’. This opportunity sparked his curiosity and drove him to explore the intricacies of healthcare in the country. Subsequently, he embarked on nationwide research to examine the crucial role of preventive care in managing the H1N1 Influenza pandemic in 2008-09.
Witnessing the importance of proactive healthcare measures ignited a fire within him to contribute to the betterment of healthcare practices. It also aided him in obtaining a scholarship to pursue his Master’s degree in New York, specializing in Healthcare Outcomes Research.
Ankit’s focus lies firmly on two key areas: 1. Driving innovation, and 2. Striving to make healthcare more equitable, particularly in India and developing nations. His direction is rooted in a greater purpose — to bring transformative change and improve the lives of individuals and communities through innovative solutions in the healthcare sector.
“I truly embrace ‘You jump exactly when you feel it’s scary to jump’ and believe simplicity is a catalyst for growth and long-term success. What makes me stand out is my risk-taking appetite and clarity of vision in what I want to achieve. I don’t let failures or setbacks define me but fuel them to come back stronger and more motivated to realize my goals.”
The genesis of Ankit’s entrepreneurial journey too, springs from his unwavering passion for creative problemsolving and a burning desire to provide innovative solutions to healthcare clients. While his time as a Management Consultant laid a solid foundation, fueling his ability to think outside the box and sharpening his business acumen, he yearned to push boundaries further. He sought to collaborate with forward-thinking clients who are reshaping the healthcare industry on a global scale and setting new benchmarks for years to come. This insatiable drive compelled him to take the leap and establish his own consulting practice — Pratima Shah Inc.
“During the COVID_19 pandemic, I experienced the heartbreaking loss of my mother. She was a true humanitarian, embodying a selfless, purpose-driven life that brought joy to others. Her legacy has deeply influenced my journey. Driven by a desire to continue her legacy and improve healthcare in my own capacity, I embarked on my little entrepreneurial path with a renewed sense of purpose and set up the incorporation under her name in January 2021.”
Today, Ankit collaborates closely with organizations that are at the forefront of advancing medical breakthroughs through innovative approaches such as cell and gene therapies and RNA technology. Getting opportunities to develop strategies that facilitate faster patient access to groundbreaking medications, and developing solutions that enhance the pace of discovery and innovation, has truly been rewarding. Simultaneously, he is driven to leverage this experience and work closely with the Ministry of Health, India and governments of developing nations to establish a framework that combines research, technology, and a shared intent to forge innovation partnerships.
As a thought leader, Ankit has contributed immensely in the areas of Health Outcomes, presenting multiple research studies at international conferences such as ISPOR and AACP (American Associate of Colleges of Pharmacy). Earlier this year, he joined as a board advisor at Friends of Parkinson’s Inc. and Acie, staying true to his vision of patient advocacy and advancing innovation in medicine.
“However, I have come to realize that while recognition is gratifying, it is the knowledge gained, the skills honed, and the character developed through these experiences that hold true value.”
An emerging leader in the global healthcare space, we ask Ankit if he has a message for all the budding entrepreneurs out there. “I would like to stress that success should not be solely determined by external validation. Find your inner joy, engage in areas that bring meaning and purpose to your life, and cultivate genuine relationships. Always maintain self-belief, resilience, and cherish the entire journey that life has in store for you.”
