Hi, I’m Leila Thomas, CEO and Founder of Urban Synergy, an award-winning youth and social mobility charity I launched in 2007. As someone who built a career in technology, often as the only woman in the room, I saw early on the barriers facing underrepresented groups.

Many young people can see the shiny buildings of financial hubs from their windows but don’t feel like they belong there. I believe that’s unacceptable.

Like many in technology and professional roles, I had the benefit of great work experience and an aunt who did well in investment banking. She encouraged me to take my abilities seriously.

That’s why I’m passionate about Urban Synergy’s mission: connecting young people with mentors and role models who can light the way, open doors, and show them their potential. We want to make a real impact, building social mobility and creating a future where everyone has a chance to thrive.

Add into the mix quality work experiences, and we’ve helped over 33,000 young people unlock their potential, securing placements at top universities, apprenticeships and work experience - accessing the very careers that once felt out of reach.

Urban Synergy’s approach works, empowering young people to overcome challenges and shine in professional environments.

My own career in technology has spanned roles at Marconi, CSC, Thomson Reuters, and the London Stock Exchange Group. In recent years, I’ve been recognised on the Empower Role Model List, the Top 10 Black Role Models list by Google, and won the Powerlist Community Award from Meta. Urban Synergy was also honoured with the East London Business Award for our Covid response, a testament to our impact.

I couldn’t have done this without my amazing family, great mentors and a team of caring experts behind me. I believe that with you, we can create a better world that directly benefits young people, businesses, and communities. Join us in this movement.

In addition to leading Urban Synergy, I am:

• A member of the University of Essex Advisory Board, championing Business Collaboration: University of Essex Business Collaboration
• A guest on the FT Advisor podcast: FT Advisor Podcast
• A Mayoress of Lewisham: Honorary Mayoress of Lewisham