Zo World appoints Aviral Gupta as CEO

Co-Founder Dharamveer Singh Chouhan becomes Chairman

by e4m Staff
Published: Aug 5, 2025 2:16 PM | 2 min read

Zo World, the parent company behind Zostel, today announced a pivotal leadership evolution. Dharamveer Singh Chouhan, Co-founder and CEO, will transition to Chairman, while long time Zo leader Aviral Gupta, the company’s first employee steps into the role of Chief Executive Officer.

Dharamveer Singh Chouhan said, "Zo World is not just a company; it’s an invitation to a planet where everyone can explore fearlessly," said Dharamveer Singh Chouhan, now Chairman. "Powered by community, rooted in the Indian ethos of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,’ and scaled by cutting edge tech, we’re building the trip partner for humanity’s journey of self discovery. Aviral embodies the soul of this vision, he’s lived every step of our journey. As Chairman, I now focus on building Zo as a generational movement, unifying our ecosystem globally, and enabling thousands of creators and founders to bring this vision to life."

A decade long veteran of Zostel, Aviral Gupta joined the company as its first employee. From leading hostel operations to steering strategy and tech and most recently, delivering 400% YoY growth in Zo Trips while doubling Zostel’s EBITDA, Aviral brings full stack experience and deep cultural alignment.

"Zo is more than a brand, it’s a belief system," said Aviral Gupta, CEO, Zo World. "As we scale into a borderless, tech powered future, our focus is on crafting
experiences where every trip becomes personal, every stay meaningful, and every traveler part of something larger than themselves. We are building Zo not just as a travel brand, but as a lifestyle and cultural identity for the next generation," he said.