Full Name
Mayur Gupta

What year did you leave John Lyon (Class of)?
2012

What did you do after leaving John Lyon?
I studied Business at the University of Nottingham between 2012-2015.

Can you describe what you have done in your career so far?
After University I interned with Balloon Ventures in Kenya helping Kenyan entrepreneurs start and scale businesses and I did an internship in Dubai around trading. I then took part in the Year Here graduate scheme where I learnt how to start a social impact business. I now run a youth organisation called Career Accelerator - helping young people from diverse backgrounds prepare for professional careers through employer support.

How did your experience at John Lyon prepare you for/or shape your future?
There was a very strong work ethic in John Lyons which taught me to be ambitious, have high standards and work hard. I was surrounded by very hard working and driven students. I had the chance to take part in a lot of great extracurricular opportunities, such as running, swimming and drama which helped me build my confidence and helped me become a more well rounded person.

What has been your proudest achievements so far?
Setting up a 6 figure, national business helping 1000s of young people from diverse and underserved backgrounds prepare for successful futures through employer support led by world leading businesses.

What was your fondest memory from being at John Lyon?
I really enjoyed my drama lessons at John Lyon. I found these very fun and entertaining.

Are you still involved with the School and if so, in what way and why is it important for you to be involved in this way?
John Lyon helped me connect with one of their state school partners (LAET) who my business now works with. I have spoken at 2 careers events at John Lyon and been to an alumni dinner. It's always great to feel part of a community, reconnect with people I knew in the past, make new friends and help the younger generation.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a current pupil?
Life is a marathon not a sprint. Try to be ambitious in the different aspects of your life (personal and professional), work hard and prioritise being happy.