As a proud supporter of The Prince's Trust and a member of their Enterprise Fellowship, I am committed to fostering the next generation of entrepreneurs. Everyone has the potential to be successful and it is so important that we work together to dispel the myth that having the right skills or background dictates the opportunities that are open to young people to be a success.
I have been lucky enough to mentor Gina Moffat, one of the 40,000 young people that The Trust helps each year. Gina overcame all the odds and set up a successful florist business. The Prince's Trust saw her potential and now with their investment and support, she has turned her life around. Her story is included on the website and CD-Rom under 'Inspiring Stories'.
I have been building and selling businesses since 1985. At an early age I learned a very important lesson: Nothing can be achieved without, first and foremost, dedication and effort. I learnt this while watching my father work long hours, seven days a week to make a success of his textile business. Now as CEO of my private equity firm Hamilton Bradshaw, I am thrilled at the opportunity to pass on my years of experience to aspiring young entrepreneurs in schools across the country.
By taking part in the Million Makers: The Schools Challenge, I hope that young people across the country uncover their potential and are left with the enthusiasm and ambition necessary to succeed in business. Thank you for supporting The Prince's Trust and good luck with the Challenge!