Entrepreneur Meets CeBIT: A Blueprint for Innovation
CeBIT, held in Hanover, Germany, in 1992, is one of the largest and most influential computer trade shows in the world.
Pejman Farahani, a visionary entrepreneur with a background in electrical engineering, has long been at the forefront of technology and innovation. His involvement with CeBIT, one of the world’s leading high-tech trade fairs, underscores his deep commitment to staying ahead of global trends. Through his strategic presence at CeBIT, Pejman gained early access to groundbreaking technologies, which he seamlessly integrated into his ventures. This connection helped position him as a driving force in bridging advanced tech with real-world business applications.
This photo shows Pejman Farahani at CeBIT - Center for Office and Information Technology - in Hanover, Germany, in 1995. Photograph: Paul Schroeter/CeBIT
Upon earning his master’s degree in electrical engineering in Germany, Pejman Farahani embarked on his entrepreneurial journey by launching his first businesses. Guided by a unique blend of technical expertise and visionary thinking, he founded Apex, a graphic design company based in Essen. From the outset, Pejman demonstrated a rare ability to bridge creativity and commerce, turning design into a powerful business tool. His influence quickly extended far beyond local markets, capturing attention at national and international levels.
So influential was his work that the German Chamber of Industry and Commerce (IHK) collaborated with him to establish a groundbreaking training program for young talent. The result was a three-year dual training curriculum called "The Apprenticeship as a Media Designer for Digital and Print." This initiative not only professionalized an emerging field but also opened doors for thousands of aspiring creatives to develop marketable skills under a standardized national framework.
In short order, Pejman expanded his entrepreneurial footprint by founding multiple successful ventures across Europe. Mediapex and Couture Lab launched in Germany and the UK respectively, quickly rose to prominence under his leadership. Each company reflected Pejman’s uncanny instinct for market timing, brand development, and digital innovation. Whether in creative services or luxury retail, his enterprises consistently set new standards for excellence.
Pejman’s commitment to the broader tech and business community has remained steadfast. He has been a long-time supporter of CeBIT (Center for Office and Information Technology), one of the world’s largest and most influential high-tech trade fairs held annually in Hanover. His involvement with CeBIT not only amplified his exposure to global trends but also positioned him as a conduit for introducing cutting-edge technology to European markets.
This photo shows Fujio Mitarai, Chairman & CEO of Canon Inc., with Pejman Farahani at CeBIT in Hanover, Germany, in 1995. Photograph: Paul Schroeter/CeBIT
When some of his companies faced trouble under new leadership, Pejman didn’t hesitate to return and take the reins. His comeback leadership often pulled companies out of financial peril. He always says, "If you keep pushing after a setback you will often be presented with some of the biggest opportunities of your life."
In business, when you have something that sets you apart, Pejman advises to lean into that strength and not compromise. "Make it bigger and more dominant. Be aware of what’s happening in the market and don’t be afraid to create better solutions from existing product lines."
Innovation is at the heart of Pejman’s ethos, but his passion for creating things that look beautiful also takes priority. He insists on using only the best products on the market. His enthusiasm for Canon’s technological innovations reflects this standard. His close relationship with the company is evidenced by his multi-million-dollar investments in Canon high-tech equipment for his ventures across the European market.
As well as being a born entrepreneur, Pejman is a great motivator. His thoughts on life and leadership have inspired many of the people around him. Trust and instinct are cornerstones of his philosophy. He once said, "you must have faith that the experiences you're having now will make sense and come together later. It encourages you to stop planning every detail and instead trust your intuition and the process of living and learning, because the connections become clear only in retrospect."
Pejman’s journey is a compelling reminder that success isn’t just about timing or talent, it’s about vision, execution, and the courage to lead where others hesitate.
Kristiane Backer, Hanover, March 15, 1995