At just 23 years old, Harley McGaughran has already left an indelible mark on the entrepreneurial landscape. With a diverse portfolio spanning multiple ventures, including Trendsourcing Dubai, Trendsourcing, and Trendsblueprint, he embodies the spirit of passion and perseverance in his work.
For Harley, work isn’t just a means to an end—it’s a source of unbridled passion. He firmly believes in the adage that when you love what you do, you never truly work a day in your life.
Raised in a working-class family in Bethnal Green, Harley was instilled with a strong work ethic from a young age. His parents taught him that if he wanted something, he had to go out and earn it. This upbringing fueled his determination to defy stereotypes and carve out his own path in the world of entrepreneurship. Reflecting on his journey thus far, Harley acknowledges that entrepreneurship is far from easy.
“I draw strength from my upbringing and my family”
Harley remains undeterred, viewing setbacks as invaluable learning opportunities.
One such setback came in 2021 when Harley’s social media pages were heavily impersonated by fake accounts. This ordeal nearly spelled disaster for his business, plunging him into a state of depression. However, rather than succumbing to defeat, he chose to rise above adversity. By rebranding and building a personal profile around his brand, he not only overcame the challenge but also thrived, turning adversity into opportunity.
Resilience, according to Harley, is the cornerstone of entrepreneurship. He draws strength from remembering his reasons for embarking on this journey and views setbacks as temporary obstacles to be overcome.
Balancing passion with practicality is another challenge that Harley navigates with finesse. Operating primarily from his phone, he finds freedom in the ability to work from anywhere. While achieving the perfect work-life balance remains elusive, he embraces the flexibility afforded by his lifestyle.
Innovation is at the heart of Harley’s entrepreneurial ethos. By staying attuned to customer needs and industry trends, he fosters a culture of innovation within his companies. Networking and seeking inspiration from like-minded entrepreneurs keep his creativity flowing.
“I want trendsourcing to be known Dubai wide. I plan to open multiple stores across Dubai”
Despite his relentless dedication to work, Harley recognizes the importance of self-care. While weekends in the office are the norm for him, he acknowledges the need to prioritise mental well-being and strive for a healthier balance between work and life.
Looking to the future, Harley envisions a legacy defined by widespread brand recognition and a commitment to education. His goal is to establish multiple stores, expand his online presence globally, and advocate for entrepreneurship education within the formal schooling system.
He is… The Inspiring