Shahid Azeem
"The experience had a deep effect on me. Having been involved in charity work for many years nothing really surprised me, but the intensity of spending four weeks on the ground brought home the fact that charity affects real people, not just communities on the television. Regarding doing business in Uganda, there were no surprises - you have to ensure continual checking and follow-up, and be direct and determined to cut through the red tape. It showed me just how difficult it is for charity organizations working out there, and the establishment that they come up against. To achieve sustainable progress we need to empower the people, at the same time driving through social change through the political system. Be strong and do the right thing."
Shadid came to England from Pakistan aged 10 unable to speak English. Within a year his entrepreneurial flair saw him making money by lending money to his classmates. After being expelled from school he worked in IT for years, before spotting a gap in the PC market and setting up a business that was soon turning over £10 million a year. Never one to miss an opportunity, Shahid once found himself seated next to the Queen at a function and couldn't resist trying to blag FA Cup tickets from her! Passionate about charity, this modest millionaire donates at least 5% of his earnings every year to worthy causes.
