On speaking to MSc International Business Management students at Kingston Business School and what early-stage founders need most.
Speaking to MSc International Business Management students at Kingston Business School was a powerful reminder of why sharing knowledge matters just as much as building it.
In my talk, I reflected on lessons from my entrepreneurial journey and how those experiences shaped my approach to strategy, resilience, and growth across the UK, UAE, and GCC. I wanted the students to take away something practical and honest: early-stage businesses often carry incredible ideas, but what they need most is clarity, positioning, and the right support to find their feet.
Startups and SMEs face unique challenges. Experienced voices can make a real difference — not just by celebrating success, but by sharing the setbacks too.
By sharing lessons learned from both success and failure — from launching FayBijoux in the UAE to navigating the aftermath of COVID with Ricco, to co-founding NINIV — experienced founders can help the next generation build with more confidence and direction.
A sincere thank you to the faculty for the invitation, and to the students for their engagement and curiosity. It was a privilege to contribute my perspective. I look forward to more opportunities where real-world experience can guide ideas into sustainable, purposeful businesses.