Nick Leslau

What were the highlights of your week, working undercover?

The first highlight for me was being able just to be me stripped of my background and usual existence. It was a truly good feeling to build relationships in a short time with people who didn't know the first thing about me. I loved the anonymity.

Secondly, the Glaswegians were so kind and open towards me. I wasn't expecting that sort of immediate acceptance. I was priveleged enough to meet some of life's genuine heroes, people who do what they do, not for reward or recognition but because they genuinely care about their fellow humans. That was the greatest part of what I experienced.

What have you taken away from your experience and the people you met on the way?

I now feel I have a better understanding of the cycle of deprivation and just how difficult it can be to break free of it. I have met too many who are trapped in it, but also other beacons of light who are selflessly doing what they can to help those who society has let fall through its so called 'safety net'.

Has the Secret Millionaire experience been a reality check and has it changed your perception of society?

This experience has been a huge reality check for me. I have never had to directly face some of society's most desperate problems so close up and confront those issues that I never realized were quite so prevalent so close to home. Poverty, drugs, alcoholism, deprivation and violence are the regular diet of so many I encountered during my ten days. I am not convinced I know what can be done about these issues such is their enormity. I do know, however, ignoring them will not make them go away, nor will a few fantastic goodhearted people. The problems are too great.

What was the biggest surprise that you learned about yourself?

I learned that I had fears about disabilty such that I would metaphorically cross the street rather than confront physically or mentally impaired people. I learned that to do so was my loss. I discovered that so many had so much kindness and love and just how easy it is to see through disability. All you have to do is not be scared and try it. It opened my eyes and heart to people who have so much to teach me. Initially it was very embarrassing to recognize I had these fears, yet ultimately so powerful and brilliant to be able to overcome them.

Has your experience changed your attitude to philanthropic work?

I found more pleasure in giving directly than I have in 30 years of charitable giving by cheque. We will continue to take our kids to places which need our help but I am convinced that my wife and I will have huge joy and pleasure in spending the latter years of our lives giving lots of money away, not remotely but by being part of the organizations and people we chose to support. Secret Millionaire has shown me just how much more rewarding and fun this can be.

Intro | About Nick | About the programme | Interview | Music

Top