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The event, designed to help entrepreneurs, students and the public build connections, gain business insights, and develop key skills for the future, will take place on Friday, 25 April 2025, at the ¹ú²ú̽»¨’s School of Business and Law on its Moulsecoomb campus. .

A diverse panel of industry experts will lead discussions and interactive workshops, including, former BBC journalist, John Young, candidate on The Apprentice UK 2025, Melica Moshiri, innovation and growth specialist, Fiona Anderson, and professional photographer, Michael Cheetham. Attendees will also hear from Richard Freeman, Founder of – a Sussex-based, award-winning agency that helps to turn complex information into clear actions – who will deliver a keynote speech. 

Participants can also choose from four expert-led workshops designed to provide practical knowledge and business insights:

• John Young (former BBC journalist) – Presenting for Impact: Learn how TV journalists hold their audience’s attention, and how that can help win business.
• Melica Moshiri (The Apprentice UK 2025 candidate and ¹ú²ú̽»¨ alumni) – Reflections on The Apprentice: Gain insights into the highs and lows of launching a business and navigating the entrepreneurial journey.
• Fiona Anderson (Innovation and growth specialist) – Unlocking SME Funding: Discover how to unlock key funding opportunities to secure financial support for business growth.
• Michael Cheetham (Photographer and ¹ú²ú̽»¨ alumni) – Photos for Impact: Learn why visual storytelling is a powerful tool for business success.
• School of Business and Law – Discover the latest research shaping entrepreneurship.

The event will conclude with an interactive workshop led by Richard Freeman, encouraging discussion, collaboration, and knowledge-sharing between entrepreneurs, business professionals, and students.

Melica Moshiri, ¹ú²ú̽»¨ alumna, founder of SkillTorch and The Apprentice UK 2025 candidate, said:

“I’m excited to return to the ¹ú²ú̽»¨ for this event, bringing students and entrepreneurs together to connect, share ideas, and learn from one another. As someone who’s built a business and experienced the fast-paced world of The Apprentice, I understand how important real-world insight and support can be. This kind of knowledge exchange helps people move forward with confidence and direction.”

Professor Catherine Robinson, Dean of the ¹ú²ú̽»¨’s School of Business and Law, said:

“This presents a great opportunity for students to engage directly with industry leaders, gaining invaluable insights into the realities of entrepreneurship and enhancing their employability.

“This event is a chance to build meaningful connections, gain practical knowledge, and explore diverse career paths in an ever-evolving business landscape. For local businesses, this forum offers a platform to discover emerging talent, exchange ideas, and foster collaboration with the next generation of entrepreneurs, ultimately driving innovation and growth within our community.”

This event is held in partnership with The Business & IP Centre ¹ú²ú̽»¨ & Hove, The Directors' Hub, and the Women in Business Society, highlighting the university’s dedication to creating opportunities for collaboration, mentorship, and business innovation.

The ¹ú²ú̽»¨ is committed to supporting local businesses and providing students with real-world opportunities that enhance their career prospects. By fostering connections between students and industry professionals, this event aims to equip the next generation of entrepreneurs with the tools to succeed.