Dragons’ Den entrepreneur Theo inspires future business leaders

Aspiring entrepreneurs recently came face-to-face with Dragons’ Den investor Theo Paphitis during a unique boardroom session held at the University of Derby.

Theo, along with William Cavendish, Earl of Burlington, led the inaugural session of the Entrepreneurs’ Club.

Open to all students at Derby, the aim of the club is to create a talent pipeline of entrepreneurs for the UK.

It provides a unique opportunity for students to engage with, learn from, and be challenged by global industry leaders.

The club board consists of leaders from companies such as McDonald’s UK&I, ICE, Google, and Rolls-Royce, and is led by Lord Burlington and Theo.

Theo said: “Higher education must evolve. It’s not just about qualifications – it’s learning how to solve problems, take risks and think independently – and those are the skills that define success in the real world.

“That’s one of the reasons I wanted to work with the University of Derby.

“It’s easy to sit on the sidelines and criticise higher education or young people, but real change comes from investing directly in the next generation.

“Entrepreneurship is more than starting a business. It’s resilience, creativity and the confidence to challenge convention – whether you’re launching a company, designing a new technology or training to become a nurse.

“That’s why initiatives like this Entrepreneurs’ Club matter. I have been hugely impressed by the university’s industry-focused approach and the ambition of the students I met in Derby.

“What they need now is access to networks, experience and people who will push them to think bigger.”

At the session, students were given the opportunity to pitch ideas, take part in live discussions and receive direct feedback.

At the end of the year selected students will have the opportunity to work with Lord Burlington or be mentored by Theo.