Students from St Matthew’s Academy, Prendergast Vale, Knight’s Academy and Trinity School had a unique opportunity to meet entrepreneurs and leaders at the London Stock Exchange during the Entrepreneur Insight Day, delivered in partnership with the Young Mayors for Lewisham initiative. The event aimed to inspire ambition, build confidence, and provide real-world insights into career pathways.
Young Mayor Takes Stage
The day began with Shane Grant, Young Mayor of Lewisham, who helped students understand the value of the opportunity and encouraged them to ask questions and network.
Students then heard a keynote address from Abi Ajayi, Head of Middle East & Africa, Primary Markets at the London Stock Exchange. Using his own family experiences, Abi illustrated the importance of financial literacy, real-world experience, and taking initiative — key lessons for aspiring young leaders.
“The event was really inspiring. During the panel while the entrepreneurs were talking about failure it really resonated with me as I began to realise that failure is just the first step to success. This was an event that I will not take in vain. I genuinely learnt valuable lessons today and I appreciate this opportunity greatly.” – Student
Entrepreneur Panel Inspires Future Leaders
The highlight of the Entrepreneur Insight Day was a panel of successful entrepreneurs spanning industries from fashion and entertainment to luxury design. Toks Aruoture, Luxury Nursery Designer and Founder of The Baby Cot Shop; Jamel Higgins, Former Young Mayor of Lewisham and Managing Director of HENRI X; and Adrian Grant, Founder and Theatre/Media Producer at Adrian Grant Productions shared invaluable insights into their career highs and lows, how failure can be a powerful learning tool, and recommended resources for students to explore as they plan their own paths.
Kofi Siaw, Urban Synergy alumnus and Vice President of HSBC Innovation Banking, hosted the panel, sharing perspectives from his career and demonstrating how ambition, guidance, and perseverance lead to success. He also shared how much he appreciates this moment given that he was a former mentee from over 20 years ago.
Students participated in a speed mentoring session, connecting one-on-one with panel members. These conversations provided personal insights, practical advice, and motivation to pursue their own ambitions.
“A great opportunity to meet people from varied businesses and the different routes to success.” – Teacher
Why the Meet the Entrepreneur Day Matters
Urban Synergy's Insight Day provided young people with direct access to role models, hands-on insights, and the tools to build confidence, leadership skills, and career ambition. By connecting students with real-world experiences and professionals, the event helped to unlock potential and prepare the next generation of ambitious leaders. Learn more about Urban Synergy’s Insight Day’s and other youth empowerment initiatives.
