‘Fighting Injustice Is My Business Model’: inDrive CEO Arsen Tomsky on His Mission to Redefine Ca...

“Since the first day, it was a story of fighting injustice,” inDrive’s CEO Arsen Tomsky tells TIME. “That is what really motivates me.”
Lolita Steuber · 1 day ago · 2 minutes read


The Unlikely Rise of inDrive: A Broken Nose, a Mission of Justice

The Birth of a Movement

Arsen Tomsky's broken nose on New Year's Eve 1997, sparked something within him. The violence and injustice he witnessed that night ignited a burning passion to fight against social problems.

inDrive: Breaking the Cartels

Tomsky's anger over the rampant corruption and high prices in Yakutsk's taxi market gave rise to inDrive. This innovative platform turned the traditional ride-hailing model on its head, empowering both drivers and passengers to determine fares and choose rides.

A Super Mission

"Fighting injustice" became inDrive's driving force, leading to unexpected benefits. It forged strong connections with users, governments, and the media, while simultaneously motivating the team.

Quietly Disrupting the Market

inDrive's strategy of targeting underserved markets while avoiding direct confrontations with established players enabled them to grow stealthily and establish a global presence.

"They played around the edges... If they had confronted the existing players head-on, they would have been matched and faced significant obstacles."

A Stand Against Oppression

Russia's invasion of Ukraine forced inDrive to exit the country and pivot its operations. Tomsky's anti-war stance and decision to renounce his Russian citizenship underscore the company's commitment to fighting injustice.

Beyond Mobility

inDrive's success has propelled Tomsky to diversify his services into financial services and other urban necessities. He believes that addressing broader social challenges is the key to true happiness.

Questioning the Matrix

Tomsky remains skeptical of AI's true potential, acknowledging its risks and the need for regulation. He believes that its ultimate role is to enhance the human experience, transitioning individuals into a digital universe.

A Life-Changing Encounter

Tomsky found more than just a broken nose that fateful New Year's Eve. He met his future wife, who was drawn to his enigmatic face bandages and sober demeanor.