Payal Kadakia

Payal Kadakia is an entrepreneur and innovator in the fitness and technology sectors, known as the founder of ClassPass. Under Kadakia's leadership, ClassPass expanded access to fitness and wellness experiences, developing into a global platform that connects users with studios and gyms worldwide. Kadakia's expertise in scalable technology solutions and her focus on promoting healthy lifestyles have positioned her as a recognized figure in the startup ecosystem and a frequent contributor to discussions on business transformation and leadership.

In addition to her work with ClassPass, Kadakia is the founder and artistic director of Sa Dance Company, where she has promoted South Asian dance forms and cultural expression internationally. Her work has been featured at major venues and events, demonstrating her ability to integrate entrepreneurship with artistic innovation.

Kadakia regularly appears at conferences, on media outlets, and at industry panels, offering insights on entrepreneurship, diversity, and the intersection of technology and wellness. She is a public speaker and mentor to aspiring founders.

Kadakia's career includes recognition from business publications and organizations for her impact and leadership. She has discussed the challenges of scaling a startup, navigating cultural expectations, and advocating for representation in technology and the arts. Through public speaking and thought leadership, Kadakia shares her experiences in resilience, creativity, and expanding access to wellness.