Starting out as an entrepreneur in the UK
Starting a new chapter in life in a foreign land can be daunting, but it can also be a rich source of inspiration and motivation. For Thuta Khin and Dhruv Krishnaraj, co-founders of Leiho and Student Circus, respectively, their entrepreneurial journey in the UK started with pursuing higher education, meeting like-minded individuals, and leveraging resources available through their universities.
Thuta Khin, originally from Myanmar, came to the UK in 2014 as an international student. He moved from Manchester to London for university and during his Master’s at City University of London, he met Joey, who would become his co-founder. As part of their studies, they attended entrepreneurship seminars and talks hosted by the university's City Ventures team, which provided valuable insights into the world of entrepreneurship. The university also supported them in acquiring a startup visa, which was crucial for them as international students. Inspired by their experiences and their desire to give back to the community, Thuta and Joey started Leiho, a brand that sells socks with a social mission—to help provide clean socks to the local homeless community.
Similarly, Dhruv Krishnaraj from India came to the UK in 2014 to pursue a Master’s degree at the University of Bristol. After facing challenges in securing a job due to visa requirements, he realized the difficulties that international students faced in finding employment. This realization led him to co-found Student Circus, a platform that helps international students find employment opportunities in the UK, in partnership with Tripti, another University of Bristol alumna. Like Thuta, Dhruv also credits the support and resources available through his university for helping him start his entrepreneurial journey.
The stories of Thuta and Dhruv showcase the importance of universities in nurturing and supporting aspiring entrepreneurs, especially international students. Access to resources, networking opportunities, and visa support are critical in overcoming the challenges of starting a business in a foreign country. Their stories also highlight the power of collaboration and the value of leveraging one’s own experiences to create solutions that can benefit others.
For those who are starting out as entrepreneurs in the UK, Thuta and Dhruv's experiences offer valuable lessons. Seek out support and resources available through your university or local entrepreneurship ecosystem. Surround yourself with like-minded individuals who can inspire and support you. Be open to new opportunities and challenges, and don't be afraid to take risks. Above all, remember that entrepreneurship is a journey, and success comes from perseverance and determination.